The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Cycling is not only a great way to stay active and explore your surroundings, but it can also be a powerful tool for improving your mental and emotional well-being. By practicing mindfulness while cycling, you can enhance your experience, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost your overall sense of well-being. If you had told me way back when I started cycling that I would be talking about mindfulness I would laugh at you but here I am all those years later doing it. Cycling does change as you age and I find practicing mindfulness pretty cool. This may sound hokey to some of you but I find it serves me well. Understand that I am no longer a competitive cyclist. I do not enter races trying to place high in the standings. If I enter a race nowadays it is just to enjoy the fact that I can ride, meet some cool people, and see if I can finish it. Most of my riding today involves getting ready for multi-day adventures. I don't go fast. It is about endurance but it is also about stopping an

This is one of the coolest things I have seen in a long time. It is a guy who is touring with his cat. I stumbled upon a video on YouTube that featured this man named Dean Nicholson and his furry companion Nala, who he adopted while cycling through Bosnia. Their story is nothing short of inspiring and heartwarming. Dean Nicholson, a 31-year-old from Dunbar, Scotland, had always dreamt of travelling the world. In 2018, he quit his job as a welder and set off on his bicycle, with the intention of cycling through Europe and eventually reaching  Australia. From there the hope is to fly to Argentina then cycle north to Canada. But little did he know that his life would change forever in Bosnia. One day, while cycling up a steep hill in the Bosnian mountains, Dean heard a faint meowing sound. Curious, he got off his bike and found a tiny kitten by the side of the road. He decided to take her with him, and named her Nala. Since then, the duo has been inseparable, and they have travelled over

  I love cycling. I'm one of those cyclists that claims cycling is in my DNA. If I go too long without cycling my mood goes south fast. I'm not sure you can classify it as depression but my wife says it causes me to become a grumpy old man. I have read about some seriously depressed people turning their lives around through cycling. I believe in it so here is a post about it. Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there are many treatments available, some people may find relief from depression through physical exercise, such as cycling. Here are some ways that cycling can help beat depression and improve overall mental health: Boosts endorphins: Exercise, including cycling, releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that can improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Cycling can provide a natural boost of these "feel-good" chemicals, helping to reduce symptoms of depression. Impr

As a cyclist, I have experienced moments where the sensation of flying overtakes me. The wind in my hair, the rhythm of my legs, and the sound of my wheels on the road all come together to create a feeling of soaring through the air. Even though I am physically grounded, cycling can make me feel like I have wings. So what is it about riding that gives us this feeling? One reason cycling can make you feel like you're flying is the joy of movement. Cycling is a form of self-powered transportation that allows you to move through the world at your own pace. The simple act of propelling yourself forward can create a sense of lightness and freedom that feels like flight. Another reason is the connection to nature. When you're cycling, you're exposed to the elements with nothing between you and the world around you. This connection to nature can make you feel more alive and like you're a part of something bigger than yourself. The sound of the wind and the scent of the air can

This post has been on my mind for a long time. I have a hard time with drivers who hate me just because I am a cyclist. They cannot stand that I am out on the roads because somewhere and sometime they had a bad interaction with another cyclist that did something egregiously bad that made that driver think we are all like that. It really gets to me because I try to be both a friendly cyclist and a defensive one. Cycling is a great way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and reduce your carbon footprint. However, some cyclists do stupid things that give all cyclists a bad name. From blowing through stop signs to weaving in and out of traffic, these reckless cyclists put themselves and others in danger and create animosity between drivers and cyclists. One of the biggest complaints from drivers about cyclists is that they ignore traffic laws. Running red lights and stop signs is not only illegal, but it's also dangerous. It creates confusion for other drivers and pedestrians and puts

As an experienced cyclist, I love the challenge of conquering steep hills. But when it comes to riding back down, I can't help but cringe at the thought. The speed and fear of losing control can be overwhelming, and I find myself riding my brakes most of the way once I hit around 40 mph. I know some people are great at riding downhills, and I have a lot of respect for them, but it's just not something I'm comfortable with. However, I know that handling fast downhills is important for any cyclist, so I've learned some techniques to help me get through it. Firstly, I always make sure my bike is in good condition. I check my brakes, wheels, and tires before I start my descent to ensure that my bike can handle the speed and stress of the descent. If I'm unsure, I take my bike to a professional for a tune-up. Secondly, I always wear a helmet. It may seem obvious, but it's worth repeating. A good quality helmet can save your life if you lose control on the descent. I

I love cycling. It's hard to put into words how much joy it brings me. I started out as a runner in college, but I also rode a bicycle a few miles to and from my apartment to classes. Little did I know that I was slowly becoming a cyclist. I went to New Mexico State University, and about 5 miles from my apartment was a pretty lonely highway that rambled through some really cool small villages. The thing I loved about riding on that road was that I got to ride for miles under a canopy of pecan trees. It was beautiful and peaceful, and I found myself looking forward to those rides more than my runs. At the time, I didn't really think of it as training. It was just something to do other than running, and it was too far away to run to. But looking back, I realize that those rides were the foundation of my love for cycling. They were my first taste of the freedom and joy that comes with cycling. Fast forward to today, and I'm still cycling. I've participated in many events o

The Pacific Coast Route, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is a legendary bike route that spans the entire west coast of the United States. The journey begins in Vancouver, Canada, and ends in Tijuana, Mexico, covering over 2,000 miles of stunning scenery along the way. The route takes riders through three states: Washington, Oregon, and California. The ride is challenging, with steep hills, winding roads, and unpredictable weather conditions. However, the incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and stunning landscapes make it all worth it. Washington The journey begins in Vancouver, where riders can take in the beauty of the city before heading south. The first section of the route takes riders through the Olympic Peninsula, where they'll encounter beautiful coastal towns and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. From there, the route heads south towards the state capital, Olympia, and the cities of Tacoma and Seattle. Riders can take a break in Seattle, which is known for its

I often write articles about cycling for senior citizens. You never know which one will be picked up and shown by the search engines and that is why I wrote about this topic often. Cycling has kept me healthy and feeling younger than my 67 years of age. Here is another one. Enjoy! By the way, that is me in 2020 on the 4th day of my tour from Texhoma, Oklahoma to South Padre Island, Texas, a 962 mile ride.  As we age, it's more important than ever to stay active and healthy. Cycling is a great way to do just that - it's low-impact, easy on the joints, and can be done at your own pace. Plus, it's a fun way to explore your neighborhood or city. However, there are some special considerations that senior citizens should keep in mind when cycling. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and active on two wheels: Check with your doctor first Before you start cycling, it's important to check with your doctor to make sure it's safe for you to do so. They can also advise you

Bicycle computers are a great tool for cyclists who want to track their progress and improve their performance. There are a variety of options on the market, each with different features and price points. In this post, we'll take a look at some of the top selling and top rated bicycle computers. There are links to Amazon where you can see details and reviews of some of them. They will open in another window. Wahoo Elemnt Bolt The Wahoo Elemnt Bolt is a popular option among cyclists due to its sleek design and extensive range of features. It connects to both GPS and GLONASS satellites for accurate tracking and has Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility. The Bolt also has a long battery life and easy-to-use interface. Additionally, it integrates with popular cycling apps like Strava and TrainingPeaks. That is the Elemnt Bolt in the picture. Garmin Edge 530 The Garmin Edge 530 is another top-rated bicycle computer with GPS and GLONASS connectivity. It has a large, easy-to-read color screen

Cycling is a fantastic way to stay healthy, fit, and active. For some, it’s more than just a hobby or a way to stay in shape. It’s a passion, a way of life, and a means to compete at the highest level. And for those who compete in the Special Olympics, it's a way to showcase their skills and abilities. The Special Olympics is a global organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Special Olympics has become the world's largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities. It provides a platform for athletes to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level, promoting a more inclusive and accepting world. As a parent of a Special Olympics athlete, I know firsthand the importance of this organization and the impact it has on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics offers a safe and s

Sometimes, life gets in the way of our plans, and we have to adapt. As a cyclist, I know this all too well. On busy days when I can't make time for a ride in the daylight, I turn to the night. There's nothing like riding on a long empty country road at night when the stars are shining bright or the moon is full. The peace and solitude can be almost meditative, and the cool night air can be refreshing. However, riding at night also poses some unique challenges and risks that require extra precautions to stay safe. One of the most important things to consider when riding at night is visibility. Since it's dark, I always make sure that I'm well lit up like a Christmas tree, so other road users can see me. I have a bright white headlight and a red tail light on my bicycle, which are essential for visibility. The spokes on my bike are all reflective too and that helps a great deal when I am crossing intersections. I also wear a reflective clothing and ankle bands , so I'

  Touring cycling has become an increasingly popular activity among outdoor enthusiasts. It provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of nature while getting some exercise. There are many fantastic locations for cycling tours in the United States, but some states have become particularly popular among touring cyclists. In this blog post, we will explore the top states for touring cyclists to ride in. California California is often considered one of the best states for cycling tours. With its stunning coastline, majestic mountains, and beautiful national parks, it has everything a cyclist could ask for. The state also has a wide variety of terrain, from flat roads to challenging mountain passes, making it an ideal location for cyclists of all levels. Oregon Oregon is another popular state for touring cyclists, particularly the Pacific Coast route. The state's stunning scenery includes rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and lush forests. The state is also home to numerous bike-frie

  When it comes to touring cyclists who have covered the most miles ever, there are a few names that come to mind. However, one cyclist stands out above the rest - Heinz Stücke. Heinz Stücke, born in Germany in 1940, started his cycling journey in 1962 at the age of 22. He set out on his first tour from his hometown of Hövelhof, Germany, with the intention of cycling through Europe. He pedaled through France, Spain, and Portugal, and eventually reached Morocco. He continued his journey through Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, and soon found himself cycling around the world. Stücke's cycling adventure didn't stop there, as he continued to tour for over 50 years, covering a staggering 648,000 kilometers (or approximately 403,000 miles) in total. This distance is equivalent to cycling around the equator over 16 times, or making more than 15 trips from New York to Los Angeles. Stücke's journey took him through over 200 countries, and he was always eager to learn about differe

Are you ready for a challenge? Riding 100 miles on a bicycle is no easy feat, but it's definitely possible with the right mindset and preparation. In this blog post, we'll discuss what it takes to conquer a century ride and share some tips to help you reach that finish line. First and foremost, let's be clear: riding 100 miles on a bicycle is not for the faint of heart. It's a true test of endurance and patience, and you'll likely experience a fair amount of discomfort along the way. But don't let that discourage you! With proper training and mental preparation, you can overcome the challenges and emerge victorious. One key aspect of long-distance riding is mental toughness. Yes, physical fitness is important, but it's not everything. When you're in the midst of a grueling ride, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and defeated. But with the right mindset, you can learn to manage your thoughts and emotions and push through the difficult moments. Here are a

Cycling is a popular form of exercise that can provide a range of health benefits, from improving cardiovascular function to reducing stress and anxiety. But did you know that cycling can also potentially enhance your sexual function and lead to stronger, more intense orgasms? Here's what you need to know about the science behind how cycling can improve orgasms. The Link Between Exercise and Sexual Function Regular exercise, including cycling, can have a positive impact on sexual function for both men and women. This is because exercise can improve cardiovascular health, increase blood flow, and boost the production of sex hormones, all of which can contribute to better sexual function. For women , cycling can help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which are important for sexual function and can contribute to stronger, more intense orgasms. In particular, cycling can target the pubococcygeus (PC) muscle, which is responsible for controlling bladder and bowel function as well

  Cycling is a fantastic form of exercise, providing numerous health benefits such as improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall endurance. However, as with any sport, there are risks of injury if proper training and precautions are not taken. One common area of injury for cyclists is the knees. In this blog post, we'll discuss how improper training can lead to knee injuries in cyclists. Overuse One of the most common causes of knee injuries in cyclists is overuse. Overuse injuries occur when the same motion is repeated over and over again, putting strain on the muscles and joints involved. Cycling involves a repetitive motion of pedaling, which can put stress on the knee joint if not done correctly. This can lead to conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as "runner's knee," which causes pain in the front of the knee. Improper Bike Fit Another cause of knee injuries in cyclists is an improper bike fit. A bike that is not adjuste

Cycling is a great way for seniors to stay active and healthy, but it's not uncommon to experience knee pain from time to time. Knee pain can be a frustrating and debilitating issue for cyclists, but with the right knowledge and precautions, it can often be prevented or managed. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the common causes of knee pain in cyclists, as well as some tips for prevention and treatment. Causes of Knee Pain in Cyclists The most common causes of knee pain in cyclists include: Overuse injuries : These occur when you cycle too much or too intensely, without giving your knees enough time to rest and recover. Improper bike fit : If your bike is not adjusted properly to your body, you may be putting excess pressure on your knees, causing pain and discomfort. Muscle imbalances : If your leg muscles are not equally strong, it can cause your kneecap to track improperly, resulting in knee pain. Prevention of Knee Pain in Cyclists Preventing knee pain when cycling

I am posting this article in the middle of the summer even though it is about winter cycling. There is a good reason for that. By the time Google indexes this post and it gains traction in Google's organic searches, it will be winter and that is why it is being posted in July. Cycling in cold weather can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to keeping your extremities warm. In particular, the ears, fingers, and toes are the most vulnerable parts of the body during cold rides. To make your winter cycling experience comfortable and enjoyable, it is essential to invest in the right gear to keep these body parts warm and protected. In this article, we'll take a look at the three most important things to have well covered on cold rides and recommend some products from Amazon that can help you stay warm and comfortable on your winter rides. Ears The ears are one of the most sensitive areas of the body when it comes to cold weather. Exposing them to cold wind can caus

A couple of days ago I wrote an article about the greatest cyclists in American cycling history. It mainly focused on the media darlings that we have all seen on the Tour de France and other big time races. I am particularly impressed with ultra-long-distance cyclists too and wanted to give them some recognition too.   Cycling is a sport that has captured the hearts and minds of millions of people around the world. Whether it's the rush of wind in your face as you ride through beautiful landscapes, the feeling of pushing yourself to your limits, or the satisfaction of achieving a long-sought-after goal, there is something truly special about cycling that keeps people coming back for more. One of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of cycling is long distance and ultra-distance riding. These events push cyclists to their limits, challenging their physical and mental stamina as they ride hundreds or even thousands of miles in a single race. And in the United States, there are