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Change Your Equipment As You Age to Keep Cycling

Today’s Quick Tip comes to us from octogenarian Hildegarde Bender, whose QT arrived under the Subject line: Biking Into Your 80s. Here’s what she wrote:

I have biked ever since I was a child, but in my 50th year did my first long-distance cycling. At the time, I rode a 10-speed, but then was introduced to a “granny gear” so that winter I rebuilt my 10- speed, adding easier gearing.

I rode that setup for years; then after one particularly hot summer week crossing Michigan, I knew I needed to try a recumbent.

That was fine for 10 years. Then, starting a cross-country trip I knew it was time for a recumbent trike. Which was fine for another 5 years.

But now, in my 79th-80th year, I knew I needed a little more help if I were to continue to ride.

I ride for the pleasure of being outdoors, for clearing my head when it gets too stressed, for the pleasure of smelling the honeysuckle alongside the road.

So not long ago I got a battery-assisted bike – and it has put the JOY back into biking for me.

So for all you Millennials and Boomers who might be afraid your riding days are getting numbered, don’t be afraid to make adjustments in your riding machine. It’s worth it!


If you have an idea for a QT, fire away. We’re always looking for good info we can share with fellow roadies. We would love to hear from you with any suggestions you have. Contact us by clicking Quick Tips Ideas.

—John Marsh & The RBR Team

 

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