The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

  Endurance Cycling for Seniors: Navigating the Challenges of a 24-Hour Bicycle Ride I have rode in the 24 Hour in the Canyon event a few times in the past decade. Riding a bicycle for 24 hours is grueling. The ride starts on a Saturday at noon and ends at noon on Sunday. I always did best the first 8 or 9 hours, which is completely expected. The next many hours are when we would plunge into darkness in the canyon and the temperature would fall from the upper 90's down into the 50's. Believe me, that takes it toll on you quickly.  I loved riding as the sun comes up. You know there are just a few hours left and you start to feel the warmth on your face. It kind of gives you a bit of an adrenaline rush. That last few hours were just painful. You are either close to 200 miles into the 24 hour ride or more. My best was 234 miles but I can't seem to get close to that many miles now. A 24-hour bicycle ride is a challenging feat for any cyclist, but it can be particularly demandin...

How to modify your bike for senior cycling Cycling is a great way to stay active and healthy, regardless of your age. However, as we get older, our bodies change and we may need to make some modifications to our bikes to make them easier and safer to ride. Here are a few tips on how to modify your bike for senior cycling: Get a wider saddle. A wider saddle will distribute your weight more evenly and reduce pressure on your perineum. This is especially important if you are riding for longer periods of time. Add a backrest. A backrest can provide support for your back and help you to maintain a more upright riding position. This can be helpful if you have any back problems. Install a step-through frame. A step-through frame makes it easier to get on and off your bike. This is especially important if you have any mobility issues. Add a basket or panniers. Baskets and panniers can be used to carry groceries, other belongings, and even your pet. This can be helpful if you are using ...

  Congratulations on taking on the challenge of training for a century as a beginner senior cyclist! With the right training plan, you can build up your endurance and skills to achieve this impressive goal. Here's a sample six-month training plan to help you prepare. It's simple to follow and offers you the flexibility to ride it the way you feel best. From Beginner to Century: A Training Plan for Senior Cyclists Month 1: Start with two to three rides per week, gradually building up to a total of 50-75 miles per week. Focus on building your base fitness with longer, steady-paced rides of 10-20 miles. Incorporate some hill training to build strength and improve your climbing skills. Add some cross-training activities, such as walking or swimming, to build overall fitness and reduce the risk of injury. Month 2: Increase your weekly mileage to 75-100 miles per week. Begin to incorporate one longer ride per week, gradually building up to a distance of 30-40 miles. Add some interval...

  When cycling, it is important to stay hydrated and maintain proper electrolyte balance to avoid cramping, fatigue, and other negative effects of dehydration. One way to ensure this is to add electrolytes to your water bottle, but many products on the market also contain calories, which can be problematic if you are trying to avoid unnecessary energy intake. In this post, we will discuss several ways to get electrolytes in your water bottles during bike rides without adding calories. Electrolyte Tablets: One option for adding electrolytes to your water bottle is to use electrolyte tablets. These are small tablets that dissolve in water and provide a concentrated dose of electrolytes without adding any calories. Many brands offer electrolyte tablets with different combinations of minerals, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Electrolyte Drops: Another option for adding electrolytes to your water bottle is to use...

As the wheels of time turn, so do the wheels of our bicycles, carrying us through life's adventures. As a seasoned cyclist at the age of 67, I have come to understand the unique challenges that come with riding long-distance tours in my golden years. Nevertheless, with experience and a few well-honed tricks up my sleeve, I've managed to make these rides more enjoyable and fulfilling. In this blog post, I will share my insights on the challenges I've faced and the strategies I employ to make long-distance tours easier, so fellow cycling enthusiasts can continue to embark on epic journeys regardless of age. Embrace the Changing Dynamics As we age, it's crucial to acknowledge that our bodies might not be as resilient as they once were. But don't let that deter you from riding long distances! Embrace the changing dynamics of your body and understand that it may require more care and recovery time. Set Realistic Goals Long-distance tours are exhilarating, but it's es...