The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Even Cyclists Have Bad Days: Tales from the Two-Wheeled Underworld Most days on the bike feel like magic. Wind at your back, legs spinning, sun glinting off your handlebars — you know, the kind of ride that makes you feel like you could keep pedaling forever. And then there are those days. The ones where it feels like your bike made a deal with the devil, and you’re just along for the punishment. Trust me, I’ve had more than my share. Let me take you on a little tour through the two-wheeled underworld — where flats multiply, storms chase you, and yes, even slugs take their revenge. Exhibit A: The Chain Incident of ’22 It was just a simple Sunday ride — one of those “easy recovery” days where you tell yourself you’re going to spin gently and maybe stop for a cinnamon roll. About 20 miles in, my chain decided to stage a full-blown rebellion. One second I’m pedaling; the next, I’m standing roadside like a stork in Lycra, chain wrapped around my crank like it was auditioning for Cirque ...

Conquering Slick Streets: Cycling Adventures in the Rain (and Tips to Avoid My Oily Demise) Ah, the rain. For some, it's a cozy lullaby, a reason to curl up with a good book and a hot mug. For others, it's an exhilarating challenge, an opportunity to push through the elements and emerge stronger. I fall into the latter category, especially when it comes to cycling. There's something undeniably freeing about weaving through wet streets, dodging raindrops, and feeling the wind whip through your hair (or under your helmet, in my case). But let me tell you, my love affair with rainy cycling hasn't always been smooth sailing. In fact, my first foray into wet-weather riding almost ended in disaster. I was feeling invincible, zipping along a familiar route, relishing the cool spray on my face. Then, approaching an intersection, I hit a patch of pavement that felt like black ice. My tires lost traction instantly, sending me skidding across the asphalt ...