The end of the road?

[Big T]

There have been times when I’ve got bored with cycling and more or less given up. But then I find myself sat at home on a Sunday morning, with nothing to do and start thinking I could be out on my bike. Then it starts again, I start going out, remember how much I enjoy it, and I start riding regularly again.

Being retired now, it’s how I spend most of my time. I’m out on my bike most days, only for 30-40 miles, but I can ride up to 300 miles a week if the weather’s nice. I don’t ride in the rain, because I can pick and choose when I go out and it rarely rain all week.

I have friends who liked to ride fast all the time, but as they got older, they find that they can’t ride so fast and they’ve given up. I have a different mindset. As long as I can ride, I’ll ride, even if I’m only pootling along at 13-14mph. These other friends can't accept that they are slower now, but it doesn’t bother me.

 

[yello]

I have friends who liked to ride fast all the time, but as they got older, they find that they can’t ride so fast and they’ve given up. I have a different mindset. As long as I can ride, I’ll ride, even if I’m only pootling along at 13-14mph. These other friends can't accept that they are slower now, but it doesn’t bother me.

Those are wise and insightful words. I like muchly.

In truth, I am aware that not being able to ride as I used to is affecting me just a little. I am having to transition. But I get that and I am accepting it. You're right; as long as you can ride, riding can be enjoyed.

 

[midlandsgrimpeur]

One of the clubs near to me has a membership that is largely older people, probably 65+ at a guess. They are one of the most active and social groups in the area and I often see lots of their riders out in groups and solo just enjoying being on the bike. I am hoping I am still very much able to do the same at their age.

 

[ianrauk]

In truth, I am aware that not being able to ride as I used to is affecting me just a little. I am having to transition. But I get that and I am accepting it. You're right; as long as you can ride, riding can be enjoyed.

I think we all get there Yello.
I'm now nearing 60, and I know I am slowing down, distance is no problem, that's not effected. Speed is and it is hard to adjust one's mind to the fact that a few years ago the average speeds I used to get where higher then they are now and it will slowly but surely get slower.

 

[Ming the Merciless]

If you ride the same routes at a slower speed, you get to spend a little longer on your bike. That’s a win.

 

[mrushton]

66 yesterday. Coming to the end @work but still commute 10 miles each way and try to get out at weekends. Will see what retirement brings. Someone I know recently stopped at 81 years of age

 

[Webbo2]

Occasionally on our clubs Wednesday social ride one of the guys brings his 85 year old dad with him, he’s on upright electric bike but doesn’t really get dropped on the flat. He usually canes us all on the hills.

 

[midlandsgrimpeur]

He usually canes us all on the hills

And that's before the motor kicks in 😉

 

[Saracenlad]

81 years old and on my electric assist specialized feel half that age. 2 years ago I was all for packing it in. Aches and pains, shortage of breath etc. Had a bad period of vertigo which didn't help. Even during that period I still managed a few rides and felt better for it. After 2 very uncomfortable appointments with a consultant at Doncaster Hospital (I passed out at the first one) and was sorted out with the second. Not had an episode for 18 months.
My change to E assist has seriously changed my life. My wife and myself ride most weeks and the bikes go on holiday with us. We both look forward to our rides and it gives me a great deal of pleasure. Just added my Strava mileage up and this year we have done 1729.1 miles. Bought the E assist bikes in March this year and mine had to go in for a new motor couple of weeks ago. Did a ride on my Saracen Hybrid and loved it.
I could not imagine my life without a bike in it. We are all fortunate to have a pastime that brings us all such good health and happiness.

 

[Saracenlad]

Final word to Yello. Please don't give up. Take it as easy as you can. Use your gears more.