I'm 78 and have been battling advance prostate cancer. I have been a cycling enthusiast my entire life but after 3 years of powerful cancer drugs, I got too weak to ride last fall. That was depressing. I recently traveled to a warmer region and brought my bike...just in case. Warm weather and sunshine however lured me back in the saddle. I started slow, riding about 2 miles. I started riding every morning, increasing my distance about a mile each day. This started in early April and so far, my max day ride has been 12 miles and 100 miles for the month. I feel much stronger now and I plan to return to the tennis court soon. My bike may have saved my life...
Hi there, your story is so inspiring. After what you've gone through, small gains are key! You are a true champion and I applaud your attitude and strength. Take care my friend, Steve
I'm 81 years old and bike. I have a Trek E Bike. Flattens out the big hills and gives me plenty of exercise. I also still backpack the Olympic National Park mountains. Life is good. I hike with my dog miles each day. I kayak. I do intermittent fasting. I don't eat meat. I do Qi Gong every morning. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. I am WOKE.
Hi Sean, thanks you for sharing. You have a very healthy lifestyle. Trying to do the same. Along with exercise, I cut our meat a few years ago. Stay strong my friend, Steve
86 years old and exercise three hours a day here in Tucson. Ride my Specialized ebike in the eco mode for an hour, lift weights at LA Fitness for another hour, and then hike for an hour. Great weather here, so no excuses, for sure.
I turned 66 this month. I ride 10-20 miles/day and I can do 80 pushups and situps I don't plan to quit anytime soon. Congratulations on being in great shape at 70.
I turned 75 in April and did a 75 mile ride to celebrate that victory. I cycle about 125-150 per week. 7100 mi last years. Not giving up yet. This is the best channel I’ve found for 70+ cyclists. Thanks for the inspiration I’ve subscripted. I’m doing a metric in May, June another 75+. Very exciting to be 75 and still cycling a lot. You’re right.
Hi Reid, thank you so much for sharing your accomplishments. You have a lot of exciting milestones ahead of you. Thanks for the kind words and subscribing. You are very inspiring at 75. We're not done yet and have many things to look forward to over the next decade. Keep pedaling and keep smiling! Thanks again, Steve
Great to hear this. Turn 71 next month and do between 75 and 100 miles a week. I thought I was getting to the end of my cycling career, but it looks like I have many years left. Thank you! You're an inspiration.
Congrats on the birthdsay and the ride. I had my 60th birthday in April. I rode 65+ miles to celebrate; 60 for the 60th, 62 for my first metric century, and 3 more for the heck of it. 75 miles is my next big goal. Right now I'm trying to find more places that have climbs to work on the climbing muscles.
Thanks for encouraging everyone to get regular exercise. At 70 I cycled across US with Trek Travel and then again at 75. This October turn 80 and am celebrating by biking 80 km per day for 80 consecutive days ending in my birthday. Thanks for your great attitude and enthusiasm - it encourages others to get out there!
Due to health issues, I gave up bike touring over 10 years ago. At first, no great loss. But, as the years have gone by, I found myself getting pushed into an ever narrower box. Heart problems, joint problems, urinary problems and just plain old OLDNESS. Last fall I got a new hip and heart plumbing and decided it was time to start pushing back. From January to April, I have managed to ride 750 miles in a hilly area and this week I am going on an overnight bicycle camping trip. Small steps in preparation for riding from coast to coast in 2024. You are right... it is much harder at 66 than it was at 46 but... like you said... no excuses. Go For It!
Wow...small steps and gains and planning a ride coast to coast it is something else...I am sure you will get to do it. Congrats on your positivity and strength to overcome your health issues. A true example for many who at my age (41) are already giving up.
I'm 69 years old. I ride with a group of about 12 other guys all between 65 and 77 years old. We ride about 125 miles a week. I don't plan on stopping any time soon. Keep it up. Age is just a number!
Thanks for your comment David. So true that age is just a number. Sounds like you have a good group to ride with. All the best to you and your riding crew. Steve
I read many comments and am happy to hear that many are taking charge of their lives! When I turned 78 last year, I thought I was crazy about purchasing an e-bike. I even took two months to unbox the bike! In all fairness, it was cold, though there was no snow in northern Virginia. This June, I turn 79. I have not needed hip or knee replacements but do have COPD that, if you can imagine, hinders me. A few days ago, I went with a youngster (he was 59 years old) on a twenty-mile journey up and twenty miles back, and yesterday a short trip of thirteen miles. To anyone who is viewing this video and doesn't have an e-bike, you would benefit greatly.
Hi George, sounds like you have "taken charge of your life". The e-bike has been a game changer for so many. Still get plenty of exercise with a little "boost" when needed. I am humbled by the hundreds of positive comments from like minded older ladies and gentlemen. Thanks so much for your comment and have a great day, Steve
I started going to the gym in July weighing in at 283lbs, my heavest size in life. Soon I discovered cycling, through my pastor!! God works in strange ways. I started with an Ebilke and now have a road bike but use them both. In just a few months I'm at 255lbs!! I love cycling!!
Wow Jack, good work. Sounds like you are very committed and will reach your goal! You are a true Champion. Thanks for sharing your story and keep up the good work. Take care, Steve
I'm 64, will retire this year, I rode my bike 1100 miles last year and once retired plan to ride it a lot more. Great video. I'm really near where you are now
I have just found you and subscribed, I am 71 and hiked Ben Nevis in Scotland last year. I am cycling the Leeds Liverpool canal 127 miles this year. Be the best you can be....love it
72 and still love cycling. I believe cycling saved my life. One blocked artery lead to a heart attack followed by cardiac arrest (at doors of the emergency room). Thanks to the strength of my heart brought on by years of cycling I am back in the saddle riding with my old buds again.
Greetings from the Netherlands Steve, I follow you on RUclips with your bikepacking videos, Holland is a real cycling country, and I also make the necessary miles by bicycle daily and on holidays with pleasure.
Great video. When I started cycling eight years ago, on one of the longer club rides, I started fading. One of the older guys, he was 75 then, said "take my wheel" and he pulled me the last 15km into town. At that time, I was 40. I was like "hot damn," cycling is a sport that you can keep doing forever. He's in his 80s now and still riding, in great shape.
@ed Ann ARBOR, MI My husband had a stroke 12 years ago. He too has balance and mobility problems after that event! We discovered and switched to recumbent tadpole trikes (with a big shout-out to Grand Rapid's own Terra Trikes) and have been having a lot of fun with them the past 11 years. They gave us some normalcy back, having been avid cyclists before his stroke. I know Ann Arbor has a Terra Trike dealer. Might be fun for you to check out. I guarantee a big triker's smile when you do!
@@PhyllisBoone-sn8oi friends here have the trikes. I'm not ready yet. Being so low scares me.,I've been hit a few times. I love the hard work I volved, hills and trails galore here. Enjoy and Ride on
I will be 70 this 7-9-23🎉. Been biking 1000 - 1200 mi per yr. Had Covid, Broke my ankle, had my gall bladder removed, had open heart ❤ surgery, all within 3 yrs. 2 yrs. ago, purchased an ebike and work harder pedaling than my C & R Bikes, and put on nearly 1000 mi. Work out stretching and lift weights regularly. God willing, hope to put on 1500 mi. this year. 😊
Bought my first Carbon bike at 79 last year, love it! What ever you want to do, you have to do. Still riding an Italian Super Moto and if I had the money I'd still have my airplane. Was planning on dying at 65; I failed. Want to be around "as long as it's fun!"
Great video Steve. I am over 75 years of age and I cycle every day. The last 20 years I have cycled over 56,000 miles. The last 2 years I have started cycle camping. I believe a cycle a day keeps the doctor away. Thank you and Stay Safe.
Hi Steve, I m 68 yesrs and today I stumbled upon your channel, You both insprired and encouraged me. I love riing my bike I built a few year back a Schwinn mountain bike. I started to ride last yer untill a bad spill hurt my knees esspecially my left knee it took a long time to heal. I have started to repair my mountsin bike from th damage done in the spill. I have had 3 heart attacks and a spine injury andd am type 2 diabetic. I watched your videos 2 so far it inspired and enccouraged me.
Hi Tom, thank you for sharing your situation. I'm sure you will be back when your bike is fixed up. I'm inspired by your positive outlook and moving forward despite many health challenges. Take care and have a great tomorrow. All the best, Steve
I rode bikes before it was cool...loved them then, love them now. I'm 77 years old and ride 20-26 miles a day, even through the winter months. The bike is a 15 year old Schwinn Voyageur hybrid so it's not fancy-smancy and no ebike for me. I learned to maintain bikes when I was carrying a newspaper route as a 12 year old and do all of my own servicing now. It helps to have a cycle partner who can encourage each other. I hate cold and wind but still get out and cycle in it. Thanks for your encouraging channel...its all about the journey.
Hi Hank, we have similar paths. I bought and maintained my Schwinn Varsity 10 speed when I had a paper route. Saved up and the bike cost me $66. Thanks for watching and the nice comment. Take care, Steve
I'm approaching 60 and retirement and looking forward to many years on the bike. As they say, use it or lose it. Keep up the good work. My father-in-laws cycle group mostly switched to e-bikes and they love them. A good option for those struggling a bit. Only downside is once you switch you never go back.
73 here and still loving my cycling. Group (small) rides are the way to go, either on road (less popular) social rides for coffee, or sunday morning off-road rides are all the go. I am the elder of the group but find great motivation from the younger (retirees) members of the group. Have just bought an eBike to prolong and simplify the off-road trips. Last rode the four day Cape to Cape event two years ago, definitely my last one. Can't but promote the benefits of eBikes which allow less able people to enjoy the outdoors as well. On a different set of two wheels, I am planning an across (and return) Australia trip within the year, from Perth Western Australia to Tasmania, and I find that the cycling gives me the fitness to be able to do this.
Hi John and thank you for taking the time to write such a nice comment. E-bikes are certainly a wonderful thing. My wife will be ready for one next year to take the edge off the hills. Encouraging to know that you will be taking that long ride. That will be a great adventure. Thanks again, Steve
@johnstaring3210 Hi there, just read your post from 11 months ago. I'm 72 and interested in bikepacking. Did you get around to your cycling trip from Perth Western Australia to Tasmania?
My name is also Steve, turned 71 two days ago. Been a bicycle mechanic since about 1972, Live in Northern most part of the Peoples Republic of N.Y. Currently building up a touring bike from a 80.s vintage Motobecane. Plan to circumnavigate Lake Champlain around September. Work out and ride or walk daily weather permitting. Starting to use my bikes as transportation for errands etc. Nice video and love the "No excuses moto, I am going to borrow it if you don't mind.....Happy Trails
Hi Stephen, thank you for the comment. Circumnavigating Lake Champlain sounds like a really nice trip. Are you in the Plattsburgh area? Starting May 8th I'm riding my new Priority 600X from Rouses Point to Battery Park, NYC. Renting a car here in Connecticut and dropping it off in Plattsburgh. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
I am 74. In order to keep up with my riding buddies who cycle over 60 mile rides, (Canadian Century - 100k), at over 15 mph pace, I bought a really good e-bike, Cannondale Synapse 1 that can easily do that and much more providing I pedal lots. I only use the minimum assist necessary to do the job. This gives my the option of going with many different groups and staying in good shape which is important to me. My fellow cyclist say they envy me on the hills. I am very thankful for e-bikes!
Thank you for promoting us “old” guys on bikes. Last year for my 70 celebration I rode in Ohio south to north with The Fuller Center group. I great experience with wonderful people. I’ll be riding in Nevada, Austin,Machinaw Island, San Diego, NY and Southern Illinois this bike season. See ya out there!
For me at 65 my fitness is directly linked to my wife and I being able to financial survive, if I don’t work our money stops. My riding both road and MTB and spin bike helps me continue to run my lawn mowing business and that is very physical but also profitable. Riding is the best and most enjoyable exercise I have found to keep me in business. My hope is to still be working in 5 years…I can reduce my lawn customers down from 57 as my endurance drops. There is no promise that health endures but one day at a time. If I’m not working, I’m riding or hiking or skiing, but everyday I do exercise….everyday.
Hi there and thanks for sharing. Sounds like you are thriving and enjoying life. I also believe in "one day at a time" is the way to go through our lives. Thanks again and have a great weekend, Steve
100%! You are absolutely correct on all points. Well said too. Riding the open roads is wonderful. But more today than ever, we must be aware of distracted cell phone and in-car tech drivers, which require the high viz clothing you are wearing. So you got that covered. But how about front and rear high lumen blinking lights? All else is rock solid. You are living your best life. I’m 67 and love to ride my Moots titanium all-roads bike where ever and whenever I can. Would love to do the Triple By-pass in Colorado one day. Keep inspiring. Ride safe and ride often. Peace
Great, pertinent, video! I’m 72 this year. Both shoulders replaced and quite bad deg.disc.disease. I rode 5000+ miles last year and plan to do more this year. All I can say is DON’T STOP and keep smiling. We all look younger when we smile :)
Well done. I've. Roken more bones than I can remember. Including my back. Fused and held together with rods. Dr's. Said no more activity. You'll not walk again. I went and bought an expensive bike. On a stand, middle of my house. The desire to ride it pulled me forward. Now I ride daily and walk my dog. Cycling helps with all the aches and pains better than any med ever did. Pedal and smile. You earned it!
@@Mosely2007 Hi Ed, thanks for sharing your situation, You are truly a testament to taking control of your body no matter what the doctors say! Your story is inspiring and put a smile on my face. Thanks, Steve
@@steveretiredandcycling thanks. Sometimes others get inspired knowing some do overcome adversity. I walked, talked and learned from very wise Shaman and Others that I create My Reality. I knew humans are capable of healing themselves. I had decades of tools to use. I've been counted out several times. I never buy it. Another's expectations are not my baggage. Cycling balances my life and keeps me fit. Same weight as 50 yrs ago. I avoid drs. Like the Cooties since.
Hey Steve, great video and advice. I turn 70 this July, and my father used to say, "Don't stop moving or they'll start shoveling dirt in your face." I consider myself lucky because other than a few aches and pains from injuries and work over the years, I can still ride and workout at the gym a little. After retiring I managed to bike across the U.S. twice. And I rode half of the Great Divide route off road at 68, that was chewing off a little too much. :-) This June I plan to ride the Erie Canal Route in NY from Buffalo to Albany. The best tours and rides for sane folks are the Rail Trails and Canal Routes like the GAP, C&O, Mickelson Trail, Katy Trail, I've been lucky to ride all of them. The Cowboy Trail is another one on my list to do. Happy Trails!
Hey Mike, thanks for sharing where you've ridden and your desire to ride the Cowboy Trail. Your Dad sounds like a real character with great advice that I'll never forget. The Great Divide looks like it has some very challenging sections. At least you got to experience some of it. You're a true road warrior! Thanks again and take care, Steve
Hey Mike, do you mind if I use you fathers quote in my upcoming video? If yes, I would like to give you credit by saying "As Mike from xxx says, "Don't stop moving or they'll start shoveling dirt in your face." Where are you from?. I think that's a great quote and inspiring in a quirky way. Thanks again and take care of yourself, Steve
@@steveretiredandcycling Hi Steve, yes you may use my father's quote. No need to credit me. He went by C L as a nickname, you can credit C L if you want to do a credit. Thanks very much.
@@Mike-vd2qt Thanks Mike! My daughter lives in Molina CO. A farm on top of a hill overlooking the most beautiful mountains. Love your state! Thanks again, Steve
Great attitude! I'm a young 62 with double knee replacements and the invention of eMTB's are a salvation for me. Two mountain e-bikes and one city e-bike will hopefully keep me riding to 70 and beyond.
71 here...been riding my adult life since 1984. Retired, but still work part-time. Ride to work and ride at least 1 or 2 overnight rides a year. Living in the Pacific Northwest, there is no excuse to NOT RIDE!! Enjoy your video. Just subscribed. I'm looking forward to seeing your new bike. I have a Surly Disc Trucker. I love it.
Absolute respect, you are awesome! I'm a young bloke, 53 and struggling to recover from 2 nasty accidents that saw my in and out of hospital for the best part of a year. This is exactly what I was looking for , thank you.
All the best for your full recovery, James. Just set modest goals and build on the mental health benefits of achieving them. At 60, I encountered prostate cancer. It was an unexpected rude shock. That same year I treated myself to a birthday present, a beautiful road bike. Lots of cycling kilometres helped me to cope. I suffer from anxiety and depression and the endorphins from cycling really help me to get through. At 65, I treated myself to another birthday present, an e-Mountain bike. I now ride many more kilometres, plus I ride more often. At 70, I treated myself to yet another birthday present. I ditched the road bike, selling it to a very grateful 75-year-old. Instead, I built a bikepacking fat bike and began planning trips into the wilderness, camping in my tent. Now at 72, it is the endorphins from struggling up single tracks with a fully loaded bike, together with the tranquillity of isolated camp spots in the bush, that helps me to improve my mental health.
Awesome video. Keep it up. I am 63 and have been riding my bike for the past 10 years. Biking has become my new passion later in my life. I love it. It has absolutely saved me and got me healthier. I hope to ride as long as I can as I get older. Biking has opened up new adventures for me, like going on biking vacations to some beautiful locations in Northern Wisconsin. I have been doing that for the past 5 years. It is amazing up there. I give all credit to God for pushing me into this.
Hi Jon and thank you for sharing your experience. Would love to ride in Northern Wisconsin some day. Must be beautiful. Thanks again and have a great day, Steve
Looks like there's lots of us, not just here in UK. I'm 69 with almost 1.2 lungs left following Cancer. Rode 10,258 miles since operation Oct 2017. Keep on keeping on my friends. Great to meet you.
Thank you very much for watching and your comment Damian. You are very inspiring beating cancer and riding to fitness. Thanks again and nice to meet you too, Steve
I'm turning 73 next month although I only do some 10 to 20 kms on weekend but i walk 7 kms everyday for a fast pace of around 1.5 hrs. You can follow me at strava app
Steve - you are a man after my own heart. I'm a few months shy of 70. And I couldn't agree more with everything you've said in this video. My wife is a Physical Therapist and she often tells me about patients she's had who are in their 50s and younger who have been sedentary for years and have all kinds of physical ailments as a result of that. Many people don't realize that our muscles, among other things, hold our bones in alignment. When we allow ourselves to get weak, we can easily get out of alignment, causing all kinds of aches and pains. It's something that I've tried hard to avoid for many years. I started bike riding about 30 years ago and am still doing it. Like you, I also do tours, which is my favorite style of riding. I did my first tour in 1995 - just a short 225-mile ride over a week from Phoenix to Tucson, AZ, and was hooked. I didn't have the time to do another until I retired in 2008, but have done about 8 more since then, including half of the Southern Tier and a tour of Central America from Mexico to Panama. My last one was with a carbon road bike using lightweight bikepacking gear, from the Canadian border to Brookings, Oregon. I plan to do another one this year, but haven't decided where yet. I also went the "large cassette" route with an 11-42 on my road bike, and on my last tour found that to be a great help on some very steep hills. Keep up the good work and enjoy every day.
Hi Maynard, thank you for sharing your wisdom on life, exercise and health. After I posted this video I was astounded at the hundreds of comments from people that share the same outlook on health and exercise as we age. It's really simple isn't it. And what better mechanism to sustain our bodies than the low impact exercise of riding bikes. I wish you all the best for next tours and good health to you and your wife, Thanks again, Steve
Terrific attitude, and plenty of useful perspective. I turned 70 late last year. I've been riding for forty years, rode competitively for eighteen years, so lots of experience and probably 175,000+ miles in my legs. Back up to 6000 miles last year after letting things slide just a little, and I can still hang with the group on a 65 mile ride with a 20 mph average. Beyond fortunate! I wouldn't take anything for my time in the saddle! Especially now.
Wow Rob, you certainly are reaping the benefits of your cycling career. 6000 miles last year is awesome. Keep pedaling and thanks for the comment, Steve
Outstanding. It keeps us young. I m 74 and avg 12 to 14000 yearly still. I missed 2 days in 2 yrs. Traveling . Went 1112 straight days and near 48000. After wife said time to slow down at 70. Lol. Ride on!
I am 82 years old (young) . I had a very interesting life. In short, born in South Africa 1941, finished school in Durban, joined the South African Air Force in 1958, qualified as a Flight Engineer 1962, saw action in the Angolan War, wounded in 1967, completed my military contract 1970, was granted an SABC (South African Broadcasting Corporation) bursary to study Electrical Engineerinf (Electronics), 1966, completed in 1970, became a lecturer at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, retired as Academic Regstrar 1993, went to sea and became a Master Mariner 1999, emigrated to New Zealand 2000, appointed Navigation Training Officer with Royal New Zealand Navy and retired 2006 with the rank of Captain. Since then I have been riding my bicycle until today. I am fit and healthy and am enjoying life to the fullest. My youngest son is two years old and my (third) wife is 35. There is absolutely NO better therapy than riding your bicycle. It really puts lead in your pencil!!!
Hi EFF, thank you so much for sharing. You’ve certainly had a wonderful career and are blessed with good health by being proactive and enjoying life to the fullest. You are an inspiration to me and I will remember your comment and carry it with me. Thanks again and good health to you. Steve
I find these videos very inspirational. I am 72 and have had my share of health issues that cause me to be fatigued and lethargic. If I succumb to my symptoms, things will not go well for me. Steve's videos inspire me to get back to my athletic mindset and stay active as long as I can.
Hi Al, thank you for the kind words. I am inspired by the hundreds of positive comments like yours. Love your mindset of not succumbing to your symptoms. As long we listen to our bodies and keep in touch with our doctors. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
I’m 89, have 3 bikes and a trike. I’m riding the trike right now to rebuild my strength after therapy weakened me. I put a 500 watt wheel on the front and use pedal assist for uphill pulls. Where I live it is all hills. When I get my strength and balance back I will tide my old Trek Cross or my folding bike.
Congratulations on being fit and fun at 70, Steve. I'm a 55 year old mountain biker. This year I started weight training, reluctantly. But I want to be on the bike at 70 and beyond too. Thanks for the inspiration!
Hi there Steve 👋🏽 I just subscribed to your channel. I’m 72, and still mountain biking and bikepacking. Hope to be able to keep riding in my ‘80s. Good to hear about your plans for bike trips. Just this morning my wife and I were planning our trip to Wilpina Pound in the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. Keep fit. Keep healthy, and keep the rubber side down.
Thanks for this. I turned 70 at the end of the last year and still doing 20+ miles per day plus core and upper body workouts. I find it hard to believe I am only 10lbs heavier than I was at 20 years old, though being vegetarian for many years has certainly helped. I purchased a new bike for myself earlier this year, an Orbea Orca and I am interested to see what your new ride will be. There is definitely a need for support and information for us older riders, so I am delighted to see you are doing this. I plan to attempt a 100 mile ride this year if I can raise my game enough. If you don't have your health you have nothing. Keep on pedaling!
Hey Barry, thank you for the comment! I agree that there is need for more information for us older riders. You are certainly keeping yourself in shape. I've also benefited from changing my diet. I've been sticking to a 95% vegan diet over the past 1 1/2years and have noticed a lot of benefits. My blood pressure and resting heart rate are way down and my breathing has improved since I cut out dairy. I never knew I was allergic todairy until I removed it from my diet. Been a while since I did a century ride. Maybe this year, I don't have an "excuse". Go for the 100, it will be a great accomplishment if you train for it. Don't forget to drink more water than I think you need. Muscle cramps aren't fun as you know. Thanks again, Steve
Staying healthy is the key. Living a "healthy" lifestyle, eating healthy food and regular exercising. The problem is disease that we have no control over. Cancer, dementia, kidney disease, heart disease, et al. Something always gets us. So, what to do? Embrace each day as if it could be our last because it damn well could be.
Yes, something will get us all in the end but it now seems that the likelihood of contracting diseases like 'cancer, dementia, kidney disease, heart disease' can be reduced (but not eliminated) by healthy lifestyle.
I see you're wearing a bright yellow jacket. Smart man. Making yourself conspicuously visible is one of the most important things you can do on a bike to stay allive. Too many idiot drivers not paying attention. I'm a "young" 61 and been riding since 1988. Used to be a big runner but the knees hurt too much. I live outside Philly and ride year round. I love the cool weather and winter riding: no sunburn, no sweat, and no bugs!
Thank you so much for a truly inspirational video. I am 71, living in Scotland, and I’ve only been cycling for about six years. I don’t think I have ever been fitter in my life and can’t wait to get out on my bike as often as possible. Last year, I cycled from Faro in the south of Portugal to Porto in the North, and then cycled part of the Camino de Santiago. This year, I will be cycling the Hebridian Way in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland over a week or so, and then the Green Divide in the Netherlands. I will also be doing my first 100 miler. I’m not meaning to boast about this - just want to confirm all that you say in your video is true. . Hope your trips go well.
Hi Richard. Thank you for sharing your upcoming plans! Jan and I will visit your beautiful country sometime in the next two year. We would love to ride the Hebridian Way. Next year we'll visit The Netherlands, the Green Divide sounds like a perfect ride also. Thanks again Richard and have a wonderful day, Steve
At 75 I just got out of the hospital with double-bypass surgery. When I am healed up I will return to riding motorcycles and I have 3. My wife Linda is 75 and just bought a Kawasaki dirt bike all by herself while I was in the hospital. We both have had much larger bikes in our past, but now have downsized a bit to make it easier to get around. At least we are now far from the city and the danger of being run over, yet can still enjoy riding together.
This is the first video from your channel that I have watched and it made me smile as you are truly inspirational and positive, so thank you. I'm 43 and I cycled Lands End to John o'Groats 2 years ago, when I got to Scotland I met a man who was doing the same ride just the opposite way (jogle). He was in his 70s and it blew my mid that he was on such an epic journey. I used to have a glass ceiling of what I could physically do at a certain age, no longer is that the case. The man I met changed that view and you have also, a healthy body and mind can go longer than we think. Much respect from Manchester in the UK!
Hi Russ, thanks for the nice comment! Your ride from Lands End to John O'Groats is a great accomplishment at any age. I hope to do it some day. Like one of the comments from Mike above said, "Don't stop moving or they'll start shoveling dirt in your face." A good sense of humor helps. Thanks again and take care of yourself, Steve
I’m 71 and am oldest guy in the gym in London by about 30 years…my wife is 72 and there are no women near her age..so sad.I’ve noticed having travelled in the US that older people tend to join more exercise programmes than those in the U.K..keep,going and push yourself daily
The wonders of technology and algorithms! I just found you and this video. I am 70 turning 71 next month. I ride daily ..30 miles per day ….all year round( in Florida in the winter)…10,000 miles per year on Catrike recumbent trikes…a 559 and a 700. I will check out your prior videos and look forward to future releases.I’m in better shape at 70 than I was at 40 and I reflect on the Simon and Garfunkel song frequently . How true it is.
Hey Mark, thanks so much for sharing. We have experienced similar paths. I'm also in much better shape than when I was at 40. Your Catrike sounds awesome and you certainly put on the miles. Thanks again and have a great day, Steve
Modern life has its advantages but one of its downsides is how easy it is to become too sedentary. I live in England and there are loads of interesting places to discover just a few miles from home. One example is Hingham, which is the village Abraham Lincoln's ancestors came from. This morning I rode to the Norfolk Broads and passed through a village with a round tower church. My riding goal is to ride from Norwich to my home town of Ipswich and back, which is about 90 miles. What I've found important is to develop and cultivate the habit of regular cycle rides. Your video was excellent. Chapeau!
Totally agree about regular cycling. You are fortunate to be living with so much history. Your goal of the 90 mile ride is great. Thank you so much for watching. Cheers, Steve
This is my first time on your channel. Right, Old Friends. I remember hearing that song in college, thinking turning 70 was so far in the future it was irrelevant. Now, at 76, I look back at 70 and wonder if I can still climb as well as I did 6 years ago. I haven’t fallen prey to the e-bike trend and vow I never will. No excuses, right. Planning my first century ride in several years next month at Santa Fe, vowing to make it all the way up Heartbreak Hill without stopping, then the Copper Triangle in early August followed by Steamboat Gravel (SBT GRVL) Blue, 100 miles, on August 20. Goals have changed from setting a PR for a ride to completing a ride. How very strange to not only be the same age as old people but to be an old person. No excuses, just do it.
Salute you brother still you kicking! I'm 65 now, I'm doing my biking for once a week using my 250w e-bike (mountain bike). I travelled 80 km on a mountainous road and 25% of that is a flat road and the rest of that is climbing. I'm happy with the God given strength that I'm enjoying everytime I had my bike ride.
I really appreciate your video Steve. I too am 70 and am looking to add more cycling into my fitness routine. I have a good bike and good places to ride and am anxious to get going. You are so correct about staying fit. While I am not yet a cyclist like you, I still run, 12 months each year, 4 times each week, 5 to 6 miles each run. I also spend a month hiking each fall in the Rockies and a week hiking in the Smokies. I have been following this running and hiking routine for many years. I am not so worried about being able to physically complete my goals, but cycling uses a bit of different leg muscles than running and hiking. It will take some getting used to. I plan on continuing my regular running regimen and add cycling on off running days or a little later in the mornings on run days. I look forward to watching more of your videos for my motivation. Thanks for taking the time and effort to make videos. I imagine they are a lot of work. Jeff, Columbus, Ohio
Hey Jeff, thank you for your encouraging comment. Means a lot. Your hiking and running sounds great. I agree that cycling uses different muscles and takes some consistent miles to train them to behave. I've always ridden a road bike and recently bought a hardtail style bike with more of an upright riding position. This bike uses slightly different muscles and takes some getting use to. Amazing how little changes effect the muscles. Makes it interesting and fun. And yes Jeff, the videos are a lot of work but fun to see the result. Thanks again and have a great day, Steve
Here is me with 72 and riding every Sunday morning 25 miles in this paradise for cycling named Key Biscayne ,i ask my wife if i go first ,cremate me and the ashes spread on this place ,remember your life end when you die ,before that enjoy every moment !!
Classical singing and study of the art song at 70 ... just as motivating and just as much an expression of optimism, if not, dare I say ... more. That's my story, along with the hour of exercise I do daily. Never give up, rage against the dying of the light.
Only 40, but we hope to have the same attitude and motivation as we age. We are so lucky to have the ability to keep moving and something we should never take for granted! Grateful to have such a positive example in our lives, Steve! Thanks for sharing. Lots of love, Jill + Ryan
Hey Ryan and Jill, thanks for the kind words. I really appreciate you guys and everything you've become. Thanks for the inspiration and remain awesome always, Love you both, Steve
60ish and learning how to do wheelies on my MTB. Would like to be doing wheelies, jumps, and riding the trails in Moab at 70 and beyond. Any kind of biking is a blast and good exercise! Ride safe. Great inspirational vid!
Thank you Steve for making and sharing such a beautiful, wonderful and inspiring video about life in the 70s. I love your "no excuses" attitude! Go enjoy life young man!!
I'm turning 67 this year and I'm with you on staying active. My preference is to be on my bike and I'm envious of the quiet roads in Connecticut. I enjoyed your video, thanks a bunch for sharing.
Just acknowledge giving❤to every comment is unbelievable….sir you are awesome and inspiring 🎉thank you. Just found your channel, will watch every video 💪🙌🤟🤟👏👏👏👌👍🚲❤️
73 here. Had to stop most activities early last year due to spinal stenosis. What you said about how difficult it is to stay healthy when for whatever reason you slow down, I can attest to. It is definitely not a cakewalk, but I'm getting there. Hope to restart my daily walks and bike rides soon, I'm back up to twice a week now. Thanks for your content!
76 last week and still getting the miles in. I've done over 10,000 miles each year for the last 3 years. I live in the North York Moors in the UK where it's very hilly, with 32 climbs steeper than 16% within a 5 mile radius of my house. As a youth I rode 44x28 bottom gear without problems, but now it's gotten to be 24x40 to ride the 33% gradients we have several of around here. I don't race any more but I still get a thrill out of a fast descent! Trouble is I spend more time climbing than descending. It's just a case of winding the pedals round at a steady pace until you get there! I have adapted one of my bikes with an e-bike kit which gives 250 watts of power assistance. I set it to assist only on hills steeper than 2% and only if my speed falls below 10 mph. It allows me to ride normally for most of the trip and just helps to level out the hills a bit. I use it for doing longer rides than I could otherwise manage because I like to ride outside in the fresh air. I don't enjoy using the static bike which I use during the worst of the winter weather as it is so boring and you get no hills to freewheel down! I have ridden bicycles for 73 years and was a top time trial racer in my youth but my main enjoyment has always been touring both in the UK and Europe. I have ridden the big cols and even did Mont Ventoux with my youngest son aged 10 on the tandem, at which time I was 62. It was a great day for us both and the Sport France photographer was out taking shots of those riding up that day, so we have a large picture on the lounge wall to remember it by! All the family ride bikes and my stepson was 2nd in the World Junior Downhill in Sweden in 1998. He rode for Specialised for several seasons and is still winning Masters events now. A good advert for cycling as a fitness pastime and a healthy way of life. I intend, God willing, to continue turning the pedals for pleasure until I cycle into the sunset, preferably on my favourite bike, a Freddie Grubb which was my 14th birthday present from my parents which has covered over 150,000 miles both touring and racing, having several sub - hour 25 mile time trials under it's wheels. You may get slower with age but the sheer fun of being out on a bike travelling under your own steam never fails to give you joy!
great video, thanks for posting. I'm 71 and my cycling plans for this year include 2 weekly rides, approx 40 miles each with 2500 - 3000 feet of elevation included. For me, conditioning off the bike is all about flexibility. Stiffening up is the worst, so an hour of yoga 2x a week really helps. I choose poses that are challenging and I can say with excitement that I am more flexible now than when I was in my 40s, and probably even my 20s., I live just north of San Francisco, and the cycling scene is top notch here, so I'm content to stay local, no desire to travel to other places. Here we have the redwood forests, the beautiful Pacific coast, and the abundant vineyards. I will look for your next post.
Hey Ted, thanks for sharing and watching. I love your part of California! Would like to get out there some day to ride. Spent a lot of time there when I was working but it was always from the airport to offices, hotels and back to the airport. Thanks again and keep pedaling, Steve
Also turned 40 as Ryan Valentich mentioned, but I can relate to you fully. I have a sitting-job, which I love but also has a consequences, and since 2019 I am bringing myself to life slowly, also biking wherewer I can. I also have many moments when I do not feel energetic at all, and that I would lay on bed and rest rather than train, but I am still trying. Congratulations to you and keep all the activities that make you feel good and connected with life and surroundings (nature). Best regards
Hi Steve. Your video appeared in my YT thumbnails this morning, and I wanted to comment. Many moons ago I was a pretty serious x-country skier, and runner/jogger. Around 2000, I switched to cycling and got serious about that pretty quickly. Eventually (2010) I left my home in Berkshire County, MA (I used to ride down into Connecticut regularly) and moved to SW Florida. And believe me, there are many, many older (60s to 80s) very serious cyclists down here. No hills, great weather, except for the occasional hurricanes, but nowhere near as pretty as MA or CT. Anyway, I still ride a lot (4-5 x/wk), and though I know that someday things will change for me, I am enjoying cycling now (I am 73 BTW) as much as did when I started 20+ years ago. Finally I did just what you did (Wolf Tooth hanger bigger cassette) on a gravel bike that I use when I va-kay in Vermont every summer. It works just fine. I may need to go bigger this year. Adjust, adjust! Regards
Hi Joe, thanks for sharing your story. Beautiful here in the Northwest corner of CT but Florida is beautiful too. My kids live in Melbourne and I ride there often. Keep up the riding and have a wonderful day, Steve
Im 70 also but i luv my e bike,pedel when i want use battery power when i want,lots of fun and many miles of sun and air in Florida,live long my friends.
Inspirational. I just started back cycling 2 years ago after about ten years off the bike. Been getting fitter and turning 55 next month. Since about Nov 2022 i have been planning a 50 mile ride, which will be my longest ride since about 1993. so far have not made it but increasing distance all the time, and since I'm turning 55 decided to do it next month and make it a 55 mile ride. That's the near term goal. The past 2 year goal was getting up to riding 30 miles in one ride, and then ride twice a week, aiming for 50 or more miles per week. trying to increase that now to more hours out on the bike increasing my weekly mileage goal. And the long term goal is to never take a long time off the bike again, because starting from scratch was hellish, and it took a long time to get where i am at now!. Drew.
Hi Drew, riding 55 at 55 years of age is a great goal to work up to. I ride my age every year and did a video about it last year. I agree that taking a rest from cycling makes it harder to start up again. Especially as we age. You can do anything you set your mind to if you train, eat right and go for it! Thanks again for the nice comment, Steve
Happy 70th Birthday and I hope to be as active as you when I turn 60 let alone 70. "they tell you that 70 is the new 50....dont you believe it. 70 is 70". I love this because it is based in reality. Love your motivation and your videos. Thanks, and happy riding !
I stumbled across your channel and I’m glad I did! I was 67 in February and been retired almost 5 years now. Although I’ve been seriously riding bikes since my 30’s, you’ve given me additional inspiration to continue my daily exercise and bike routines. I ride my ebike to the gym, do my weight lifting workout, then ride home for a total of about 13 miles daily. If I can’t ride outside because of weather, I’ll spin bike at the club after the weight routine. I also have regular bikes which I ride as well but I do prefer to ride the ebike. It’s pedal assist only so I find that I can go longer, faster and ride more comfortably than the human only powered version. Thanks for your video and please keep up these inspiring lessons.😁🚴
Hey Michael, thanks for sharing your awesome routine! I'm glad that you got a little boost from my video. People like you inspire me to keep going. I hope you have a great day! Remain awesome always, Steve
Im 61 started cycling 4 years ago, i done 15,000km last year taking 75 KOMS mostly flat high speed ones 40-50km/h, from sprints to 17-20km koms, i also took 2nd in UCI TT event in the over 60 age category last month, i do between 350-475 km a week, and i race this weekend, 28th & 30th April 2023 TT & Road race
My training is just an experiment. The results are just a by-product. VO2 Max April 2021 was 60.0, it's now 79.0. It has been up to 84.0. Indoor bike: Set cadence at 60 rpm with the biggest resistance one can do without HR leaving mid Zone 2. I do up to two and a half hours in one go doing this. Rarely racing efforts, maybe 1% of the total time. I've done 2000 hours in the past 30 months. Hopefully this info will be useful to competitive cyclists. Good luck with your races.
Amazing motivation, I am 49 and learned to ride a bike at 42. Last weekend, we just rode 30 miles on the Farmington Trail from Simsbury to Southwick MA. I wished I had started sooner. I ride with friends almost every weekend, even in the winter. Stay safe.
Hey Sandra, thank you for sharing. Love that ride on the Farmington Canal Trail. We do it often. Learning to ride a bike at 42 is awesome and keeps you moving. Today we're going to ride the Airline Trail starting in East Hampton and heading east for two hours then back to East Hampton. A great ride. Jan and I would love to ride with you guys some day. Thanks so much for watching! Take care and have a great day, Steve
Happy 70th, Steve! It's great to see you after you being away for so long. I'm 63. I think being able to ride a bike at 70 at the clip you were doing in the video ,without being totally exhausted, would be so awesome. I'm looking forward to your future videos. You really got my curiosity going with the upcoming review of the bike. Also, you got my interest peaked with the infinity saddle. My saddle I have now isn't the most comfortable. Thanks for sharing your video. Take care, David.
Hi David, good to hear from you again my friend. Thanks for the nice comment! I love my Infinity saddle and recommend it. However, it's way too expensive. Around $400 now. I guess when you have a patent on a good product, you can charge whatever you want. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
Just found your channel and subscribed, I enjoy your positive attitude. I am 65, just came back from a 4 day bikepacking trip. I will be doing the entire Great Divide trail this year, taking all of July and August. A few years back we did the Le'Petit Train du Nord trail, you'll love it.
I’m 73 and agree with you that it’s exciting to be over 70. I am having my cassette and cranks changed this winter for two planned rides next year in New Hampshire and the GAP/C&O trail. I learned this summer, by cycling the road from Collinsville to the top of Nepaug dam with a friend, that my it was either age or bike that was incorrect as I had to stop and walk the bike. Enjoyed your video and subscribed ... keep the videos coming.
Well stated Steve! I really enjoy your videos. Just turned 74 myself and still riding. Recently diagnosed with some CAD issues, but I'm not going to let that stop me. Got lots of plans for this summer, including that Petit Train de Nord route north of Montreal, probably in September to catch the fall foliage...maybe see you on the trail🙂
Hi William, thanks for watching sharing your plans. Same trail we're going to do in June. September sounds like a better time due to the crowds, however we can only fit the trip into June. Good to hear from fellow cyclists in their 70's. I'm sure your doctor knows cycling can only help your heart. Thanks again and take care, Steve
Adding a larger cassette is a great idea for the more mature riders… for sure! Recovery takes longer and VO2 max declines but some strength training will restore some of the luster of the past.
Well worth the wait! Thank you for such an inspirational video. I turn 68 and my wife turns 67 in July. We plane on doing RAGBRAI this year. Looking forward to your next video to find out what kind of new bike you get.
Hi Sam, thank again as always. RAGBRAI should be fantastic. Great that you can share cycling with your wife. Jan and I have the best times together. Thanks again and all the best to you and your wife. Steve
Thanks for the video. I loved it. I'll be 79 in April 2024 and I plan to ride about 12000 km in '24. In 2021 I did 22,000 km and in '22 I finished my round the Globe series with 18000km,. and 390,000m of climbing. This was my Covid redemption. This year I did 15500 km with 90,000 m of climbing (on Strava measurements). I ride an indoor Wahoo Kickr and use Kinomap software, for whom I've done about 80 videos. My outdoor riding is now a very minor % of my distance, but still enjoyable with friends. I love the solitude of the indoor bike and the actual scenery on the video, rather than computerized scenery on so many apps. I also enjoy the safety of it and the efficiency of time used. Every year for the past 16, I have "ridden my age" on my birthday and 79 will be no different. Cheers and keep smilin'. I'm in Canada, just north of the 1000 islands bridge crossing in NYS.
Hi Alan and thank you for telling your story! At 78 you are an inspiration to many including me. I will look into Kinomap. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
Congratulations on riding. Need to get all the help you can for you and others and get vaccinated. Don’t be like so many young mothers refusing to get their kids vaccinated for polio and measles. They are coming back because of misinformation. Same for covid. Good luck
Well it nice to see I am not the oldest one here lol. I am 76 and have been told I need a knee replacement. I had a bad motorcycle accident man-years ago. messed up my left knee and shoulder. After my wonderful wife of 52 years passed, I let myself go and came very close to pushing up flowers lol. Doctor got me back on track. Lots of walking and exercising together with learning how the kitchen works helps. I then purchased an e-bike and have been enjoying longer and longer rides. Getting out in God's beautiful earth and away from the tube helps in many ways. Like your channel. What audio/video devices are you using? I have been learning the hard way, but with some success. You are amazing! Keep the videos coming, Grandpa Dan...
Hi Dan and thank you for sharing! Good to hear you are making progress after such life changing event such as the passing of your wife. My condolences Dan. An e-bike is a great way to get out in the fresh air and feel the breeze on your face. As far as my video equipment I use a Sony ZV-1 point and shoot video capable camera. I have an external microphone but hardly use it. The internal one works fine. I have a Sony action camera mounted on the handlebars to video forward movement. I'm always learning video techniques and editing. Keeps my busy since I retired from a very active job 3 years ago. Thanks again Dan and have a great weekend, Steve
@@steveretiredandcycling Thanks, I can see I have a lot to learn lol. I have 4 elcheepo action camera and am finally getting a usable video. Also invested in a Zoom h1 recorder, because of wind noise lol. Today I finally invested in Cyborlink Powerdirector for video editing. iMovie just left a lot missing. Also, thanks for the quick reply, Grandpa Dan
Good morning Steve , I just saw this video. I have RUclips Premium and so I get some good stuff plus no Ad's !! I will turn 70 in November if the Lord wills. This was a great video, great advice and great outlook. I have been an active Cyclist for over 20 years. About 2 and 1/2 years ago I moved to Gulf Shores. I am remarried to a wonderful lady and live on what we call the Island. In 2022 I rode 3500 miles mainly down a road that is described as the most dangerous road in Alabama ,Fort Morgan Road . It is 20 miles in length and ends at Fort Morgan at the mouth of Mobile Bay. Last August ,I had my annual checkup with my doctor. When the results came back , my A1C was up, I was prediabetic, I was anemic ! Now you might think ,it was my diet or I sat on the sofa or drank to much beer ! Well in a nutshell Steve ,I was 69 years old . In resent months ,I had to go on blood pressure meds. I have an enlarged prostate and will have surgery next week. I am not whining here but to share what getting old can give you. A few months ago we got a rescue pit bull that is sweet as sunshine and loved to be walked. We have quite a large yard which I mow with what the call now, a wall behind. It is battery operated , I have a 8 gen Apple watch which is an amazing piece of Tech. Our neighbor is gone on an extended vacation. I mowed his yard yesterday and my watch recorded 2.25 miles , heart rate average 112 Bpm . We also have a lap pool that is 75' X 15 ' and a peloton . So I have no excuses ,but I have found that I can't do strenuous back to back activities anymore. I do the best I can, my primary exercise is cycling. In my opinion diet and exercise are critical but age is our biggest nemesis!
Hi Greg, thanks for sharing your situation. Age throws all sorts of roadblocks at us as you have experienced. Sounds like you aren't making excuses because of your situation. You're trying your best to manage your situation and that makes you a true champion.Thanks again Greg. And have a good day, Steve
I'm 78 and have been battling advance prostate cancer. I have been a cycling enthusiast my entire life but after 3 years of powerful cancer drugs, I got too weak to ride last fall. That was depressing.
I recently traveled to a warmer region and brought my bike...just in case. Warm weather and sunshine however lured me back in the saddle.
I started slow, riding about 2 miles. I started riding every morning, increasing my distance about a mile each day. This started in early April and so far, my max day ride has been 12 miles and 100 miles for the month. I feel much stronger now and I plan to return to the tennis court soon. My bike may have saved my life...
Hi there, your story is so inspiring. After what you've gone through, small gains are key! You are a true champion and I applaud your attitude and strength. Take care my friend, Steve
Super story! That is really inspiring
......but only because YOU got on it again. WELL DONE! (from a mere 76 year-old)
Nice work cheers 🍺🍺
That is an awesome story. Respect my friend.
I'm 81 years old and bike. I have a Trek E Bike. Flattens out the big hills and gives me plenty of exercise. I also still backpack the Olympic National Park mountains. Life is good. I hike with my dog miles each day. I kayak. I do intermittent fasting. I don't eat meat. I do Qi Gong every morning. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. I am WOKE.
Hi Sean, thanks you for sharing. You have a very healthy lifestyle. Trying to do the same. Along with exercise, I cut our meat a few years ago. Stay strong my friend, Steve
86 years old and exercise three hours a day here in Tucson. Ride my Specialized ebike in the eco mode for an hour, lift weights at LA Fitness for another hour, and then hike for an hour. Great weather here, so no excuses, for sure.
Outstanding. Keep moving
An inspiration! Cheers!
Wow! Thanks for the inspiration.
I'm A Native Tucson Arizona Desert Rat! One Pedal At A Time 👍✌️❤️
Fishing for compliments
I turned 66 this month. I ride 10-20 miles/day and I can do 80 pushups and situps I don't plan to quit anytime soon. Congratulations on being in great shape at 70.
Thank you Brian. Sounds like you are in great shape. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
@@steveretiredandcycling Can't stop. Won't stop. Cheers!
Gee Brian give us young guys a chance …good health
Awesome!!!
Great. Due arm sergery I haven't been able to do a single pushup since 1972 Been a few yeas since doing even 30 situps. I still did 6 years ago.
I turned 75 in April and did a 75 mile ride to celebrate that victory. I cycle about 125-150 per week. 7100 mi last years. Not giving up yet. This is the best channel I’ve found for 70+ cyclists. Thanks for the inspiration I’ve subscripted. I’m doing a metric in May, June another 75+. Very exciting to be 75 and still cycling a lot. You’re right.
Hi Reid, thank you so much for sharing your accomplishments. You have a lot of exciting milestones ahead of you. Thanks for the kind words and subscribing. You are very inspiring at 75. We're not done yet and have many things to look forward to over the next decade. Keep pedaling and keep smiling! Thanks again, Steve
Great to hear this. Turn 71 next month and do between 75 and 100 miles a week. I thought I was getting to the end of my cycling career, but it looks like I have many years left. Thank you! You're an inspiration.
You're an inspiration and I hope to be biking like a beast as you are.
Congrats on the birthdsay and the ride. I had my 60th birthday in April. I rode 65+ miles to celebrate; 60 for the 60th, 62 for my first metric century, and 3 more for the heck of it. 75 miles is my next big goal. Right now I'm trying to find more places that have climbs to work on the climbing muscles.
I’m 75, and mountain bike every day here in Moab. My border Collie won’t let me miss a day.
Thanks for encouraging everyone to get regular exercise. At 70 I cycled across US with Trek Travel and then again at 75. This October turn 80 and am celebrating by biking 80 km per day for 80 consecutive days ending in my birthday. Thanks for your great attitude and enthusiasm - it encourages others to get out there!
Hi Paul, that's beyond awesome. A great way to celebrate turning 80! Thanks for sharing. You are a true champion, Steve
Outstanding
Great plan! Best of luck!
God Bless! I’m 66 and have no plans to stop riding any time soon, if ever! Keep riding!
Due to health issues, I gave up bike touring over 10 years ago. At first, no great loss. But, as the years have gone by, I found myself getting pushed into an ever narrower box. Heart problems, joint problems, urinary problems and just plain old OLDNESS. Last fall I got a new hip and heart plumbing and decided it was time to start pushing back. From January to April, I have managed to ride 750 miles in a hilly area and this week I am going on an overnight bicycle camping trip. Small steps in preparation for riding from coast to coast in 2024. You are right... it is much harder at 66 than it was at 46 but... like you said... no excuses. Go For It!
Wow...small steps and gains and planning a ride coast to coast it is something else...I am sure you will get to do it. Congrats on your positivity and strength to overcome your health issues.
A true example for many who at my age (41) are already giving up.
I'm 69 years old. I ride with a group of about 12 other guys all between 65 and 77 years old. We ride about 125 miles a week. I don't plan on stopping any time soon. Keep it up. Age is just a number!
Thanks for your comment David. So true that age is just a number. Sounds like you have a good group to ride with. All the best to you and your riding crew. Steve
I read many comments and am happy to hear that many are taking charge of their lives! When I turned 78 last year, I thought I was crazy about purchasing an e-bike. I even took two months to unbox the bike! In all fairness, it was cold, though there was no snow in northern Virginia. This June, I turn 79. I have not needed hip or knee replacements but do have COPD that, if you can imagine, hinders me. A few days ago, I went with a youngster (he was 59 years old) on a twenty-mile journey up and twenty miles back, and yesterday a short trip of thirteen miles. To anyone who is viewing this video and doesn't have an e-bike, you would benefit greatly.
Hi George, sounds like you have "taken charge of your life". The e-bike has been a game changer for so many. Still get plenty of exercise with a little "boost" when needed. I am humbled by the hundreds of positive comments from like minded older ladies and gentlemen. Thanks so much for your comment and have a great day, Steve
my Creo has been a saviour for me. aged 75.
I have over 3000 miles on my e-bike.
I started going to the gym in July weighing in at 283lbs, my heavest size in life. Soon I discovered cycling, through my pastor!! God works in strange ways. I started with an Ebilke and now have a road bike but use them both. In just a few months I'm at 255lbs!! I love cycling!!
Wow Jack, good work. Sounds like you are very committed and will reach your goal! You are a true Champion. Thanks for sharing your story and keep up the good work. Take care, Steve
I’m turning 67, enjoy riding to work and back 18 miles altogether.
Great video. I met a 94yr. old that rides. I could have listened to her talk all day about her adventures
I'm 64, will retire this year, I rode my bike 1100 miles last year and once retired plan to ride it a lot more. Great video. I'm really near where you are now
I have just found you and subscribed, I am 71 and hiked Ben Nevis in Scotland last year. I am cycling the Leeds Liverpool canal 127 miles this year. Be the best you can be....love it
72 and still love cycling. I believe cycling saved my life. One blocked artery lead to a heart attack followed by cardiac arrest (at doors of the emergency room). Thanks to the strength of my heart brought on by years of cycling I am back in the saddle riding with my old buds again.
Greetings from the Netherlands Steve, I follow you on RUclips with your bikepacking videos, Holland is a real cycling country, and I also make the necessary miles by bicycle daily and on holidays with pleasure.
Great video. When I started cycling eight years ago, on one of the longer club rides, I started fading. One of the older guys, he was 75 then, said "take my wheel" and he pulled me the last 15km into town. At that time, I was 40. I was like "hot damn," cycling is a sport that you can keep doing forever. He's in his 80s now and still riding, in great shape.
Hey Edwin, thanks for sharing and the nice comment! Yes, low impact bliss. Take care,
I have friends 90 or close that still ride well. Some quit over balance issues. Not by choice
@ed Ann ARBOR, MI My husband had a stroke 12 years ago. He too has balance and mobility problems after that event! We discovered and switched to recumbent tadpole trikes (with a big shout-out to Grand Rapid's own Terra Trikes) and have been having a lot of fun with them the past 11 years. They gave us some normalcy back, having been avid cyclists before his stroke. I know Ann Arbor has a Terra Trike dealer. Might be fun for you to check out. I guarantee a big triker's smile when you do!
@@PhyllisBoone-sn8oi friends here have the trikes. I'm not ready yet. Being so low scares me.,I've been hit a few times. I love the hard work I volved, hills and trails galore here. Enjoy and Ride on
I will be 70 this 7-9-23🎉. Been biking 1000 - 1200 mi per yr. Had Covid, Broke my ankle, had my gall bladder removed, had open heart ❤ surgery, all within 3 yrs. 2 yrs. ago, purchased an ebike and work harder pedaling than my C & R Bikes, and put on nearly 1000 mi. Work out stretching and lift weights regularly. God willing, hope to put on 1500 mi. this year. 😊
Bought my first Carbon bike at 79 last year, love it! What ever you want to do, you have to do. Still riding an Italian Super Moto and if I had the money I'd still have my airplane. Was planning on dying at 65; I failed. Want to be around "as long as it's fun!"
Great video Steve. I am over 75 years of age and I cycle every day. The last 20 years I have cycled over 56,000 miles. The last 2 years I have started cycle camping. I believe a cycle a day keeps the doctor away. Thank you and Stay Safe.
Thanks John! 56,000 Miles is fantastic. Take care, Steve
I turned 71 yesterday. I pile on the miles, enough about me, thanks for the upbeat message.
Hi Terry, Thanks for watching and the nice comment. Take care, Steve
Hi Steve, I m 68 yesrs and today I stumbled upon your channel, You both insprired and encouraged me. I love riing my bike I built a few year back a Schwinn mountain bike. I started to ride last yer untill a bad spill hurt my knees esspecially my left knee it took a long time to heal. I have started to repair my mountsin bike from th damage done in the spill. I have had 3 heart attacks and a spine injury andd am type 2 diabetic. I watched your videos 2 so far it inspired and enccouraged me.
Hi Tom, thank you for sharing your situation. I'm sure you will be back when your bike is fixed up. I'm inspired by your positive outlook and moving forward despite many health challenges. Take care and have a great tomorrow. All the best, Steve
I rode bikes before it was cool...loved them then, love them now. I'm 77 years old and ride 20-26 miles a day, even through the winter months. The bike is a 15 year old Schwinn Voyageur hybrid so it's not fancy-smancy and no ebike for me. I learned to maintain bikes when I was carrying a newspaper route as a 12 year old and do all of my own servicing now. It helps to have a cycle partner who can encourage each other. I hate cold and wind but still get out and cycle in it. Thanks for your encouraging channel...its all about the journey.
Hi Hank, we have similar paths. I bought and maintained my Schwinn Varsity 10 speed when I had a paper route. Saved up and the bike cost me $66. Thanks for watching and the nice comment. Take care, Steve
I'm approaching 60 and retirement and looking forward to many years on the bike. As they say, use it or lose it. Keep up the good work. My father-in-laws cycle group mostly switched to e-bikes and they love them. A good option for those struggling a bit. Only downside is once you switch you never go back.
73 here and still loving my cycling. Group (small) rides are the way to go, either on road (less popular) social rides for coffee, or sunday morning off-road rides are all the go. I am the elder of the group but find great motivation from the younger (retirees) members of the group. Have just bought an eBike to prolong and simplify the off-road trips. Last rode the four day Cape to Cape event two years ago, definitely my last one. Can't but promote the benefits of eBikes which allow less able people to enjoy the outdoors as well. On a different set of two wheels, I am planning an across (and return) Australia trip within the year, from Perth Western Australia to Tasmania, and I find that the cycling gives me the fitness to be able to do this.
Hi John and thank you for taking the time to write such a nice comment. E-bikes are certainly a wonderful thing. My wife will be ready for one next year to take the edge off the hills. Encouraging to know that you will be taking that long ride. That will be a great adventure. Thanks again, Steve
@johnstaring3210 Hi there, just read your post from 11 months ago. I'm 72 and interested in bikepacking. Did you get around to your cycling trip from Perth Western Australia to Tasmania?
Steve here, also retired, also a long distance bicyclist, and 70 today. Thank you for your inspirational message.
My name is also Steve, turned 71 two days ago. Been a bicycle mechanic since about 1972, Live in Northern most part of the Peoples Republic of N.Y. Currently building up a touring bike from a 80.s vintage Motobecane. Plan to circumnavigate Lake Champlain around September. Work out and ride or walk daily weather permitting. Starting to use my bikes as transportation for errands etc. Nice video and love the "No excuses moto, I am going to borrow it if you don't mind.....Happy Trails
Hi Stephen, thank you for the comment. Circumnavigating Lake Champlain sounds like a really nice trip. Are you in the Plattsburgh area? Starting May 8th I'm riding my new Priority 600X from Rouses Point to Battery Park, NYC. Renting a car here in Connecticut and dropping it off in Plattsburgh. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
I am 74. In order to keep up with my riding buddies who cycle over 60 mile rides, (Canadian Century - 100k), at over 15 mph pace, I bought a really good e-bike, Cannondale Synapse 1 that can easily do that and much more providing I pedal lots. I only use the minimum assist necessary to do the job. This gives my the option of going with many different groups and staying in good shape which is important to me. My fellow cyclist say they envy me on the hills. I am very thankful for e-bikes!
That's the way to do it Sam! I know The Cannondale Synapse e-bike is awesome. Thanks and have a great day, Steve
Thank you for promoting us “old” guys on bikes. Last year for my 70 celebration I rode in Ohio south to north with The Fuller Center group. I great experience with wonderful people. I’ll be riding in Nevada, Austin,Machinaw Island, San Diego, NY and Southern Illinois this bike season. See ya out there!
For me at 65 my fitness is directly linked to my wife and I being able to financial survive, if I don’t work our money stops. My riding both road and MTB and spin bike helps me continue to run my lawn mowing business and that is very physical but also profitable.
Riding is the best and most enjoyable exercise I have found to keep me in business. My hope is to still be working in 5 years…I can reduce my lawn customers down from 57 as my endurance drops. There is no promise that health endures but one day at a time. If I’m not working, I’m riding or hiking or skiing, but everyday I do exercise….everyday.
Hi there and thanks for sharing. Sounds like you are thriving and enjoying life. I also believe in "one day at a time" is the way to go through our lives. Thanks again and have a great weekend, Steve
Top video. 73 from Australia here, been cycling for years, and still going. Agree with everything you said. thanks.
Hi there and thanks for watching and your comment. Have a great day, Steve
100%! You are absolutely correct on all points. Well said too. Riding the open roads is wonderful. But more today than ever, we must be aware of distracted cell phone and in-car tech drivers, which require the high viz clothing you are wearing. So you got that covered. But how about front and rear high lumen blinking lights? All else is rock solid. You are living your best life. I’m 67 and love to ride my Moots titanium all-roads bike where ever and whenever I can. Would love to do the Triple By-pass in Colorado one day. Keep inspiring. Ride safe and ride often. Peace
Hi there and thanks for sharing. You have a very sweet ride. Moots makes an awesome bike. Thanks for watching and the nice comment. Take care, Steve
Really enjoyed your video happy 70th🎉. I turn 71 tomorrow and still ride 7 days a week about 2oo miles each week. Enjoy your rides.
Hey Peter, thanks and have a great birthday tomorrow. 200 mile each week is fantastic. Keep up the good work! Take care, Steve
Great, pertinent, video!
I’m 72 this year. Both shoulders replaced and quite bad deg.disc.disease. I rode 5000+ miles last year and plan to do more this year. All I can say is DON’T STOP and keep smiling.
We all look younger when we smile :)
David, thank you for your words of wisdom. 5000+ is a great accomplishment. Thank you for your encouragement and keep pedaling. Take care, Steve
Well done. I've. Roken more bones than I can remember. Including my back. Fused and held together with rods. Dr's. Said no more activity. You'll not walk again. I went and bought an expensive bike. On a stand, middle of my house. The desire to ride it pulled me forward. Now I ride daily and walk my dog. Cycling helps with all the aches and pains better than any med ever did. Pedal and smile. You earned it!
@@Mosely2007 Hi Ed, thanks for sharing your situation, You are truly a testament to taking control of your body no matter what the doctors say! Your story is inspiring and put a smile on my face. Thanks, Steve
@@steveretiredandcycling thanks. Sometimes others get inspired knowing some do overcome adversity. I walked, talked and learned from very wise Shaman and Others that I create My Reality. I knew humans are capable of healing themselves. I had decades of tools to use. I've been counted out several times. I never buy it. Another's expectations are not my baggage. Cycling balances my life and keeps me fit. Same weight as 50 yrs ago. I avoid drs. Like the Cooties since.
8:28 I'll be 70 in September, still riding strong! But I'm riding a recumbent tadpole trike and having a ball!
Hi Phyllis, thanks for sharing. That trike sounds like a blast. Keep pedaling! All the best, Steve
Hey Steve, great video and advice. I turn 70 this July, and my father used to say, "Don't stop moving or they'll start shoveling dirt in your face." I consider myself lucky because other than a few aches and pains from injuries and work over the years, I can still ride and workout at the gym a little. After retiring I managed to bike across the U.S. twice. And I rode half of the Great Divide route off road at 68, that was chewing off a little too much. :-) This June I plan to ride the Erie Canal Route in NY from Buffalo to Albany. The best tours and rides for sane folks are the Rail Trails and Canal Routes like the GAP, C&O, Mickelson Trail, Katy Trail, I've been lucky to ride all of them. The Cowboy Trail is another one on my list to do. Happy Trails!
Hey Mike, thanks for sharing where you've ridden and your desire to ride the Cowboy Trail. Your Dad sounds like a real character with great advice that I'll never forget. The Great Divide looks like it has some very challenging sections. At least you got to experience some of it. You're a true road warrior! Thanks again and take care, Steve
Hey Mike, do you mind if I use you fathers quote in my upcoming video? If yes, I would like to give you credit by saying "As Mike from xxx says, "Don't stop moving or they'll start shoveling dirt in your face." Where are you from?. I think that's a great quote and inspiring in a quirky way. Thanks again and take care of yourself, Steve
@@steveretiredandcycling Hi Steve, yes you may use my father's quote. No need to credit me. He went by C L as a nickname, you can credit C L if you want to do a credit. Thanks very much.
@@steveretiredandcycling Forgot to add, I'm in Colorado, and again yes you can use C L quote.
@@Mike-vd2qt Thanks Mike! My daughter lives in Molina CO. A farm on top of a hill overlooking the most beautiful mountains. Love your state! Thanks again, Steve
Great attitude! I'm a young 62 with double knee replacements and the invention of eMTB's are a salvation for me. Two mountain e-bikes and one city e-bike will hopefully keep me riding to 70 and beyond.
Hey Scott, sounds like you are all set for more adventures. Thanks for watching and the nice comment. Take care, Steve
I needed this, I’m 61 and was having a moment ❤ but this made me think, I love cycling, but made excuses, not anymore
Hi Kevin and thank you for your comment! Have a great day, Steve
71 here...been riding my adult life since 1984. Retired, but still work part-time. Ride to work and ride at least 1 or 2 overnight rides a year. Living in the Pacific Northwest, there is no excuse to NOT RIDE!! Enjoy your video. Just subscribed. I'm looking forward to seeing your new bike. I have a Surly Disc Trucker. I love it.
Hi Tom, thank you for sharing and subscribing. The Disk Trucker is an awesome bike. Thanks again, Steve
Absolute respect, you are awesome! I'm a young bloke, 53 and struggling to recover from 2 nasty accidents that saw my in and out of hospital for the best part of a year. This is exactly what I was looking for , thank you.
All the best for your full recovery, James. Just set modest goals and build on the mental health benefits of achieving them. At 60, I encountered prostate cancer. It was an unexpected rude shock. That same year I treated myself to a birthday present, a beautiful road bike. Lots of cycling kilometres helped me to cope. I suffer from anxiety and depression and the endorphins from cycling really help me to get through. At 65, I treated myself to another birthday present, an e-Mountain bike. I now ride many more kilometres, plus I ride more often. At 70, I treated myself to yet another birthday present. I ditched the road bike, selling it to a very grateful 75-year-old. Instead, I built a bikepacking fat bike and began planning trips into the wilderness, camping in my tent. Now at 72, it is the endorphins from struggling up single tracks with a fully loaded bike, together with the tranquillity of isolated camp spots in the bush, that helps me to improve my mental health.
Awesome video. Keep it up. I am 63 and have been riding my bike for the past 10 years. Biking has become my new passion later in my life. I love it. It has absolutely saved me and got me healthier. I hope to ride as long as I can as I get older. Biking has opened up new adventures for me, like going on biking vacations to some beautiful locations in Northern Wisconsin. I have been doing that for the past 5 years. It is amazing up there. I give all credit to God for pushing me into this.
Hi Jon and thank you for sharing your experience. Would love to ride in Northern Wisconsin some day. Must be beautiful. Thanks again and have a great day, Steve
Looks like there's lots of us, not just here in UK. I'm 69 with almost 1.2 lungs left following Cancer. Rode 10,258 miles since operation Oct 2017. Keep on keeping on my friends. Great to meet you.
Thank you very much for watching and your comment Damian. You are very inspiring beating cancer and riding to fitness. Thanks again and nice to meet you too, Steve
I'm turning 73 next month although I only do some 10 to 20 kms on weekend but i walk 7 kms everyday for a fast pace of around 1.5 hrs.
You can follow me at strava app
Steve - you are a man after my own heart. I'm a few months shy of 70. And I couldn't agree more with everything you've said in this video. My wife is a Physical Therapist and she often tells me about patients she's had who are in their 50s and younger who have been sedentary for years and have all kinds of physical ailments as a result of that. Many people don't realize that our muscles, among other things, hold our bones in alignment. When we allow ourselves to get weak, we can easily get out of alignment, causing all kinds of aches and pains. It's something that I've tried hard to avoid for many years. I started bike riding about 30 years ago and am still doing it.
Like you, I also do tours, which is my favorite style of riding. I did my first tour in 1995 - just a short 225-mile ride over a week from Phoenix to Tucson, AZ, and was hooked. I didn't have the time to do another until I retired in 2008, but have done about 8 more since then, including half of the Southern Tier and a tour of Central America from Mexico to Panama. My last one was with a carbon road bike using lightweight bikepacking gear, from the Canadian border to Brookings, Oregon. I plan to do another one this year, but haven't decided where yet. I also went the "large cassette" route with an 11-42 on my road bike, and on my last tour found that to be a great help on some very steep hills.
Keep up the good work and enjoy every day.
Hi Maynard, thank you for sharing your wisdom on life, exercise and health. After I posted this video I was astounded at the hundreds of comments from people that share the same outlook on health and exercise as we age. It's really simple isn't it. And what better mechanism to sustain our bodies than the low impact exercise of riding bikes. I wish you all the best for next tours and good health to you and your wife, Thanks again, Steve
Terrific attitude, and plenty of useful perspective. I turned 70 late last year. I've been riding for forty years, rode competitively for eighteen years, so lots of experience and probably 175,000+ miles in my legs. Back up to 6000 miles last year after letting things slide just a little, and I can still hang with the group on a 65 mile ride with a 20 mph average. Beyond fortunate! I wouldn't take anything for my time in the saddle! Especially now.
Wow Rob, you certainly are reaping the benefits of your cycling career. 6000 miles last year is awesome. Keep pedaling and thanks for the comment, Steve
Outstanding. It keeps us young. I m 74 and avg 12 to 14000 yearly still. I missed 2 days in 2 yrs. Traveling . Went 1112 straight days and near 48000. After wife said time to slow down at 70. Lol. Ride on!
@@Mosely2007 And in Ann Arbor?! I ride with a woman who's nearly sixty, who does about 12k a year. That's serious miles! Congrats on the durability!
I am 82 years old (young) . I had a very interesting life. In short, born in South Africa 1941, finished school in Durban, joined the South African Air Force in 1958, qualified as a Flight Engineer 1962, saw action in the Angolan War, wounded in 1967, completed my military contract 1970, was granted an SABC (South African Broadcasting Corporation) bursary to study Electrical Engineerinf (Electronics), 1966, completed in 1970, became a lecturer at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, retired as Academic Regstrar 1993, went to sea and became a Master Mariner 1999, emigrated to New Zealand 2000, appointed Navigation Training Officer with Royal New Zealand Navy and retired 2006 with the rank of Captain. Since then I have been riding my bicycle until today. I am fit and healthy and am enjoying life to the fullest. My youngest son is two years old and my (third) wife is 35. There is absolutely NO better therapy than riding your bicycle. It really puts lead in your pencil!!!
Hi EFF, thank you so much for sharing. You’ve certainly had a wonderful career and are blessed with good health by being proactive and enjoying life to the fullest. You are an inspiration to me and I will remember your comment and carry it with me. Thanks again and good health to you. Steve
I find these videos very inspirational. I am 72 and have had my share of health issues that cause me to be fatigued and lethargic. If I succumb to my symptoms, things will not go well for me. Steve's videos inspire me to get back to my athletic mindset and stay active as long as I can.
No relation to the great Dutch rider Henie Kuiper? I think he has 2 years on you.
@@StevenBornfeld No relation that I know of but I wish I inherited his DNA 🙂
Hi Al, thank you for the kind words. I am inspired by the hundreds of positive comments like yours. Love your mindset of not succumbing to your symptoms. As long we listen to our bodies and keep in touch with our doctors. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
I’m 89, have 3 bikes and a trike. I’m riding the trike right now to rebuild my strength after therapy weakened me. I put a 500 watt wheel on the front and use pedal assist for uphill pulls. Where I live it is all hills. When I get my strength and balance back I will tide my old Trek Cross or my folding bike.
Im 69 and my plans are to cycle from north thailand to southern thailand next winter.
That's Great Brian! Sounds like a wonderful trip. Take care, Steve
Hi Steve, I’m 70 and been cycling for the last 12years!
Congratulations on being fit and fun at 70, Steve. I'm a 55 year old mountain biker. This year I started weight training, reluctantly. But I want to be on the bike at 70 and beyond too. Thanks for the inspiration!
Hi there Steve 👋🏽
I just subscribed to your channel. I’m 72, and still mountain biking and bikepacking. Hope to be able to keep riding in my ‘80s. Good to hear about your plans for bike trips. Just this morning my wife and I were planning our trip to Wilpina Pound in the Flinders Ranges in South Australia.
Keep fit. Keep healthy, and keep the rubber side down.
Hi Bruce and thanks for your comment! Your trip in the Flanders Ranges sounds like fun. Keep on pedaling and all the best, Steve
Thanks for this. I turned 70 at the end of the last year and still doing 20+ miles per day plus core and upper body workouts. I find it hard to believe I am only 10lbs heavier than I was at 20 years old, though being vegetarian for many years has certainly helped. I purchased a new bike for myself earlier this year, an Orbea Orca and I am interested to see what your new ride will be. There is definitely a need for support and information for us older riders, so I am delighted to see you are doing this. I plan to attempt a 100 mile ride this year if I can raise my game enough. If you don't have your health you have nothing. Keep on pedaling!
Hey Barry, thank you for the comment! I agree that there is need for more information for us older riders. You are certainly keeping yourself in shape. I've also benefited from changing my diet. I've been sticking to a 95% vegan diet over the past 1 1/2years and have noticed a lot of benefits. My blood pressure and resting heart rate are way down and my breathing has improved since I cut out dairy. I never knew I was allergic todairy until I removed it from my diet. Been a while since I did a century ride. Maybe this year, I don't have an "excuse". Go for the 100, it will be a great accomplishment if you train for it. Don't forget to drink more water than I think you need. Muscle cramps aren't fun as you know. Thanks again, Steve
I went vegan, it's incredible what it does for your blood chemistry.
Staying healthy is the key. Living a "healthy" lifestyle, eating healthy food and regular exercising. The problem is disease that we have no control over. Cancer, dementia, kidney disease, heart disease, et al. Something always gets us. So, what to do? Embrace each day as if it could be our last because it damn well could be.
Yes, something will get us all in the end but it now seems that the likelihood of contracting diseases like 'cancer, dementia, kidney disease, heart disease' can be reduced (but not eliminated) by healthy lifestyle.
Congratulations 70 is good age for cycling I am 80 and trying too
I see you're wearing a bright yellow jacket. Smart man. Making yourself conspicuously visible is one of the most important things you can do on a bike to stay allive. Too many idiot drivers not paying attention.
I'm a "young" 61 and been riding since 1988. Used to be a big runner but the knees hurt too much. I live outside Philly and ride year round. I love the cool weather and winter riding: no sunburn, no sweat, and no bugs!
Thank you so much for a truly inspirational video. I am 71, living in Scotland, and I’ve only been cycling for about six years. I don’t think I have ever been fitter in my life and can’t wait to get out on my bike as often as possible. Last year, I cycled from Faro in the south of Portugal to Porto in the North, and then cycled part of the Camino de Santiago.
This year, I will be cycling the Hebridian Way in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland over a week or so, and then the Green Divide in the Netherlands. I will also be doing my first 100 miler.
I’m not meaning to boast about this - just want to confirm all that you say in your video is true. .
Hope your trips go well.
Hi Richard. Thank you for sharing your upcoming plans! Jan and I will visit your beautiful country sometime in the next two year. We would love to ride the Hebridian Way. Next year we'll visit The Netherlands, the Green Divide sounds like a perfect ride also. Thanks again Richard and have a wonderful day, Steve
Yes l want to do el camino de Santiago,,,,thanks for the ispiration, l am only 78..shouldn't be a problem....NY
At 75 I just got out of the hospital with double-bypass surgery. When I am healed up I will return to riding motorcycles and I have 3. My wife Linda is 75 and just bought a Kawasaki dirt bike all by herself while I was in the hospital. We both have had much larger bikes in our past, but now have downsized a bit to make it easier to get around. At least we are now far from the city and the danger of being run over, yet can still enjoy riding together.
This is the first video from your channel that I have watched and it made me smile as you are truly inspirational and positive, so thank you. I'm 43 and I cycled Lands End to John o'Groats 2 years ago, when I got to Scotland I met a man who was doing the same ride just the opposite way (jogle). He was in his 70s and it blew my mid that he was on such an epic journey.
I used to have a glass ceiling of what I could physically do at a certain age, no longer is that the case. The man I met changed that view and you have also, a healthy body and mind can go longer than we think. Much respect from Manchester in the UK!
Hi Russ, thanks for the nice comment! Your ride from Lands End to John O'Groats is a great accomplishment at any age. I hope to do it some day. Like one of the comments from Mike above said, "Don't stop moving or they'll start shoveling dirt in your face." A good sense of humor helps. Thanks again and take care of yourself, Steve
I’m 71 and am oldest guy in the gym in London by about 30 years…my wife is 72 and there are no women near her age..so sad.I’ve noticed having travelled in the US that older people tend to join more exercise programmes than those in the U.K..keep,going and push yourself daily
The wonders of technology and algorithms! I just found you and this video. I am 70 turning 71 next month. I ride daily ..30 miles per day ….all year round( in Florida in the winter)…10,000 miles per year on Catrike recumbent trikes…a 559 and a 700. I will check out your prior videos and look forward to future releases.I’m in better shape at 70 than I was at 40 and I reflect on the Simon and Garfunkel song frequently . How true it is.
Hey Mark, thanks so much for sharing. We have experienced similar paths. I'm also in much better shape than when I was at 40. Your Catrike sounds awesome and you certainly put on the miles. Thanks again and have a great day, Steve
Modern life has its advantages but one of its downsides is how easy it is to become too sedentary. I live in England and there are loads of interesting places to discover just a few miles from home. One example is Hingham, which is the village Abraham Lincoln's ancestors came from. This morning I rode to the Norfolk Broads and passed through a village with a round tower church. My riding goal is to ride from Norwich to my home town of Ipswich and back, which is about 90 miles. What I've found important is to develop and cultivate the habit of regular cycle rides. Your video was excellent. Chapeau!
Totally agree about regular cycling. You are fortunate to be living with so much history. Your goal of the 90 mile ride is great. Thank you so much for watching. Cheers, Steve
This is my first time on your channel. Right, Old Friends. I remember hearing that song in college, thinking turning 70 was so far in the future it was irrelevant. Now, at 76, I look back at 70 and wonder if I can still climb as well as I did 6 years ago. I haven’t fallen prey to the e-bike trend and vow I never will. No excuses, right. Planning my first century ride in several years next month at Santa Fe, vowing to make it all the way up Heartbreak Hill without stopping, then the Copper Triangle in early August followed by Steamboat Gravel (SBT GRVL) Blue, 100 miles, on August 20. Goals have changed from setting a PR for a ride to completing a ride. How very strange to not only be the same age as old people but to be an old person. No excuses, just do it.
Thank you for sharing your plans. Being the same age as old people is oh so strange. Have a great summer. All the best, Steve
Just be careful not to over do it. We may be in our 70's and feel great, but remember, we are still in our 70's, exercise with caution.
Salute you brother still you kicking! I'm 65 now, I'm doing my biking for once a week using my 250w e-bike (mountain bike). I travelled 80 km on a mountainous road and 25% of that is a flat road and the rest of that is climbing. I'm happy with the God given strength that I'm enjoying everytime I had my bike ride.
I really appreciate your video Steve. I too am 70 and am looking to add more cycling into my fitness routine. I have a good bike and good places to ride and am anxious to get going. You are so correct about staying fit. While I am not yet a cyclist like you, I still run, 12 months each year, 4 times each week, 5 to 6 miles each run. I also spend a month hiking each fall in the Rockies and a week hiking in the Smokies. I have been following this running and hiking routine for many years. I am not so worried about being able to physically complete my goals, but cycling uses a bit of different leg muscles than running and hiking. It will take some getting used to. I plan on continuing my regular running regimen and add cycling on off running days or a little later in the mornings on run days. I look forward to watching more of your videos for my motivation. Thanks for taking the time and effort to make videos. I imagine they are a lot of work. Jeff, Columbus, Ohio
Hey Jeff, thank you for your encouraging comment. Means a lot. Your hiking and running sounds great. I agree that cycling uses different muscles and takes some consistent miles to train them to behave. I've always ridden a road bike and recently bought a hardtail style bike with more of an upright riding position. This bike uses slightly different muscles and takes some getting use to. Amazing how little changes effect the muscles. Makes it interesting and fun. And yes Jeff, the videos are a lot of work but fun to see the result. Thanks again and have a great day, Steve
Great I like your video. I'm 72 and still bikepacking in the UK - I'm with you. Keep it going!
Thanks Martin! Have a great day, Steve
Here is me with 72 and riding every Sunday morning 25 miles in this paradise for cycling named Key Biscayne ,i ask my wife if i go first ,cremate me and the ashes spread on this place ,remember your life end when you die ,before that enjoy every moment !!
Classical singing and study of the art song at 70 ... just as motivating and just as much an expression of optimism, if not, dare I say ... more. That's my story, along with the hour of exercise I do daily. Never give up, rage against the dying of the light.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom. I appreciated your comment. All the best, Steve
Only 40, but we hope to have the same attitude and motivation as we age. We are so lucky to have the ability to keep moving and something we should never take for granted! Grateful to have such a positive example in our lives, Steve! Thanks for sharing. Lots of love, Jill + Ryan
Hey Ryan and Jill, thanks for the kind words. I really appreciate you guys and everything you've become. Thanks for the inspiration and remain awesome always, Love you both, Steve
60ish and learning how to do wheelies on my MTB. Would like to be doing wheelies, jumps, and riding the trails in Moab at 70 and beyond. Any kind of biking is a blast and good exercise! Ride safe. Great inspirational vid!
Thank you Steve for making and sharing such a beautiful, wonderful and inspiring video about life in the 70s. I love your "no excuses" attitude! Go enjoy life young man!!
Just finished Huntsman Senior Games October 2024. Four cycling races. Four podiums
Congratulations Christopher! Something to be proud of. Keep up the strong work. All the best, Steve
I'm turning 67 this year and I'm with you on staying active. My preference is to be on my bike and I'm envious of the quiet roads in Connecticut. I enjoyed your video, thanks a bunch for sharing.
Hi Ken, thanks for watching and the nice comment. Take care, Steve
Just acknowledge giving❤to every comment is unbelievable….sir you are awesome and inspiring 🎉thank you. Just found your channel, will watch every video 💪🙌🤟🤟👏👏👏👌👍🚲❤️
Hi Denny, thanks so much, Steve
73 here. Had to stop most activities early last year due to spinal stenosis. What you said about how difficult it is to stay healthy when for whatever reason you slow down, I can attest to. It is definitely not a cakewalk, but I'm getting there. Hope to restart my daily walks and bike rides soon, I'm back up to twice a week now. Thanks for your content!
Hi RC, thanks for sharing your situation. Sounds like you are moving forward in the right direction. Thanks for watching and all the best, Steve
76 last week and still getting the miles in. I've done over 10,000 miles each year for the last 3 years. I live in the North York Moors in the UK where it's very hilly, with 32 climbs steeper than 16% within a 5 mile radius of my house. As a youth I rode 44x28 bottom gear without problems, but now it's gotten to be 24x40 to ride the 33% gradients we have several of around here. I don't race any more but I still get a thrill out of a fast descent! Trouble is I spend more time climbing than descending. It's just a case of winding the pedals round at a steady pace until you get there! I have adapted one of my bikes with an e-bike kit which gives 250 watts of power assistance. I set it to assist only on hills steeper than 2% and only if my speed falls below 10 mph. It allows me to ride normally for most of the trip and just helps to level out the hills a bit. I use it for doing longer rides than I could otherwise manage because I like to ride outside in the fresh air. I don't enjoy using the static bike which I use during the worst of the winter weather as it is so boring and you get no hills to freewheel down!
I have ridden bicycles for 73 years and was a top time trial racer in my youth but my main enjoyment has always been touring both in the UK and Europe. I have ridden the big cols and even did Mont Ventoux with my youngest son aged 10 on the tandem, at which time I was 62. It was a great day for us both and the Sport France photographer was out taking shots of those riding up that day, so we have a large picture on the lounge wall to remember it by! All the family ride bikes and my stepson was 2nd in the World Junior Downhill in Sweden in 1998. He rode for Specialised for several seasons and is still winning Masters events now. A good advert for cycling as a fitness pastime and a healthy way of life.
I intend, God willing, to continue turning the pedals for pleasure until I cycle into the sunset, preferably on my favourite bike, a Freddie Grubb which was my 14th birthday present from my parents which has covered over 150,000 miles both touring and racing, having several sub - hour 25 mile time trials under it's wheels.
You may get slower with age but the sheer fun of being out on a bike travelling under your own steam never fails to give you joy!
great video, thanks for posting. I'm 71 and my cycling plans for this year include 2 weekly rides, approx 40 miles each with 2500 - 3000 feet of elevation included. For me, conditioning off the bike is all about flexibility. Stiffening up is the worst, so an hour of yoga 2x a week really helps. I choose poses that are challenging and I can say with excitement that I am more flexible now than when I was in my 40s, and probably even my 20s., I live just north of San Francisco, and the cycling scene is top notch here, so I'm content to stay local, no desire to travel to other places. Here we have the redwood forests, the beautiful Pacific coast, and the abundant vineyards. I will look for your next post.
Hey Ted, thanks for sharing and watching. I love your part of California! Would like to get out there some day to ride. Spent a lot of time there when I was working but it was always from the airport to offices, hotels and back to the airport. Thanks again and keep pedaling, Steve
Peace and love from New Orleans, I’m with you’s guys. Old but hopeful. Still rolling.
Hey J, thanks for watching and the comment. Take care, Steve
Also turned 40 as Ryan Valentich mentioned, but I can relate to you fully. I have a sitting-job, which I love but also has a consequences, and since 2019 I am bringing myself to life slowly, also biking wherewer I can. I also have many moments when I do not feel energetic at all, and that I would lay on bed and rest rather than train, but I am still trying. Congratulations to you and keep all the activities that make you feel good and connected with life and surroundings (nature). Best regards
Great job, we can all hope to hit 70 and keep on moving
Hi Steve. Your video appeared in my YT thumbnails this morning, and I wanted to comment. Many moons ago I was a pretty serious x-country skier, and runner/jogger. Around 2000, I switched to cycling and got serious about that pretty quickly. Eventually (2010) I left my home in Berkshire County, MA (I used to ride down into Connecticut regularly) and moved to SW Florida. And believe me, there are many, many older (60s to 80s) very serious cyclists down here. No hills, great weather, except for the occasional hurricanes, but nowhere near as pretty as MA or CT. Anyway, I still ride a lot (4-5 x/wk), and though I know that someday things will change for me, I am enjoying cycling now (I am 73 BTW) as much as did when I started 20+ years ago. Finally I did just what you did (Wolf Tooth hanger bigger cassette) on a gravel bike that I use when I va-kay in Vermont every summer. It works just fine. I may need to go bigger this year. Adjust, adjust! Regards
Hi Joe, thanks for sharing your story. Beautiful here in the Northwest corner of CT but Florida is beautiful too. My kids live in Melbourne and I ride there often. Keep up the riding and have a wonderful day, Steve
Im 70 also but i luv my e bike,pedel when i want use battery power when i want,lots of fun and many miles of sun and air in Florida,live long my friends.
Inspirational. I just started back cycling 2 years ago after about ten years off the bike. Been getting fitter and turning 55 next month. Since about Nov 2022 i have been planning a 50 mile ride, which will be my longest ride since about 1993. so far have not made it but increasing distance all the time, and since I'm turning 55 decided to do it next month and make it a 55 mile ride. That's the near term goal. The past 2 year goal was getting up to riding 30 miles in one ride, and then ride twice a week, aiming for 50 or more miles per week. trying to increase that now to more hours out on the bike increasing my weekly mileage goal. And the long term goal is to never take a long time off the bike again, because starting from scratch was hellish, and it took a long time to get where i am at now!. Drew.
Hi Drew, riding 55 at 55 years of age is a great goal to work up to. I ride my age every year and did a video about it last year. I agree that taking a rest from cycling makes it harder to start up again. Especially as we age. You can do anything you set your mind to if you train, eat right and go for it! Thanks again for the nice comment, Steve
Happy 70th Birthday and I hope to be as active as you when I turn 60 let alone 70. "they tell you that 70 is the new 50....dont you believe it. 70 is 70". I love this because it is based in reality. Love your motivation and your videos. Thanks, and happy riding !
I stumbled across your channel and I’m glad I did! I was 67 in February and been retired almost 5 years now. Although I’ve been seriously riding bikes since my 30’s, you’ve given me additional inspiration to continue my daily exercise and bike routines. I ride my ebike to the gym, do my weight lifting workout, then ride home for a total of about 13 miles daily. If I can’t ride outside because of weather, I’ll spin bike at the club after the weight routine. I also have regular bikes which I ride as well but I do prefer to ride the ebike. It’s pedal assist only so I find that I can go longer, faster and ride more comfortably than the human only powered version. Thanks for your video and please keep up these inspiring lessons.😁🚴
Hey Michael, thanks for sharing your awesome routine! I'm glad that you got a little boost from my video. People like you inspire me to keep going. I hope you have a great day! Remain awesome always, Steve
Im 61 started cycling 4 years ago, i done 15,000km last year taking 75 KOMS mostly flat high speed ones 40-50km/h, from sprints to 17-20km koms, i also took 2nd in UCI TT event in the over 60 age category last month, i do between 350-475 km a week, and i race this weekend, 28th & 30th April 2023 TT & Road race
My training is just an experiment. The results are just a by-product. VO2 Max April 2021 was 60.0, it's now 79.0. It has been up to 84.0. Indoor bike: Set cadence at 60 rpm with the biggest resistance one can do without HR leaving mid Zone 2. I do up to two and a half hours in one go doing this. Rarely racing efforts, maybe 1% of the total time. I've done 2000 hours in the past 30 months.
Hopefully this info will be useful to competitive cyclists. Good luck with your races.
You are very accomplished! Thanks for sharing and all the best for the warm weather, Steve
Amazing motivation, I am 49 and learned to ride a bike at 42. Last weekend, we just rode 30 miles on the Farmington Trail from Simsbury to Southwick MA. I wished I had started sooner. I ride with friends almost every weekend, even in the winter. Stay safe.
Hey Sandra, thank you for sharing. Love that ride on the Farmington Canal Trail. We do it often. Learning to ride a bike at 42 is awesome and keeps you moving. Today we're going to ride the Airline Trail starting in East Hampton and heading east for two hours then back to East Hampton. A great ride. Jan and I would love to ride with you guys some day. Thanks so much for watching! Take care and have a great day, Steve
Learned to ride a bike at 42? AAHAHAHA What the F?
Beautiful. You are an encouragement.
Happy 70th, Steve! It's great to see you after you being away for so long. I'm 63. I think being able to ride a bike at 70 at the clip you were doing in the video ,without being totally exhausted, would be so awesome. I'm looking forward to your future videos. You really got my curiosity going with the upcoming review of the bike. Also, you got my interest peaked with the infinity saddle. My saddle I have now isn't the most comfortable. Thanks for sharing your video. Take care, David.
Hi David, good to hear from you again my friend. Thanks for the nice comment! I love my Infinity saddle and recommend it. However, it's way too expensive. Around $400 now. I guess when you have a patent on a good product, you can charge whatever you want. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
I'm mid 70s, ride every day still. Mostly gravel now. Still enjoying it. 30 plus miles daily. It's good for the Body, mind and spirit. Ride on sir!
Just found your channel and subscribed, I enjoy your positive attitude. I am 65, just came back from a 4 day bikepacking trip. I will be doing the entire Great Divide trail this year, taking all of July and August. A few years back we did the Le'Petit Train du Nord trail, you'll love it.
Hey Dave, great to hear about your adventure of a lifetime! Have fun and keep pedaling my friend, Steve
I’m 73 and agree with you that it’s exciting to be over 70. I am having my cassette and cranks changed this winter for two planned rides next year in New Hampshire and the GAP/C&O trail. I learned this summer, by cycling the road from Collinsville to the top of Nepaug dam with a friend, that my it was either age or bike that was incorrect as I had to stop and walk the bike. Enjoyed your video and subscribed ... keep the videos coming.
Hi again and thanks for subscribing. I’m also looking forward to riding the GAP/C&O next year. Should be a great time
Well stated Steve! I really enjoy your videos. Just turned 74 myself and still riding. Recently diagnosed with some CAD issues, but I'm not going to let that stop me. Got lots of plans for this summer, including that Petit Train de Nord route north of Montreal, probably in September to catch the fall foliage...maybe see you on the trail🙂
Hi William, thanks for watching sharing your plans. Same trail we're going to do in June. September sounds like a better time due to the crowds, however we can only fit the trip into June. Good to hear from fellow cyclists in their 70's. I'm sure your doctor knows cycling can only help your heart. Thanks again and take care, Steve
Adding a larger cassette is a great idea for the more mature riders… for sure! Recovery takes longer and VO2 max declines but some strength training will restore some of the luster of the past.
Well worth the wait! Thank you for such an inspirational video. I turn 68 and my wife turns 67 in July. We plane on doing RAGBRAI this year. Looking forward to your next video to find out what kind of new bike you get.
Hi Sam, thank again as always. RAGBRAI should be fantastic. Great that you can share cycling with your wife. Jan and I have the best times together. Thanks again and all the best to you and your wife. Steve
Thanks for the video. I loved it. I'll be 79 in April 2024 and I plan to ride about 12000 km in '24. In 2021 I did 22,000 km and in '22 I finished my round the Globe series with 18000km,. and 390,000m of climbing. This was my Covid redemption. This year I did 15500 km with 90,000 m of climbing (on Strava measurements). I ride an indoor Wahoo Kickr and use Kinomap software, for whom I've done about 80 videos. My outdoor riding is now a very minor % of my distance, but still enjoyable with friends. I love the solitude of the indoor bike and the actual scenery on the video, rather than computerized scenery on so many apps. I also enjoy the safety of it and the efficiency of time used. Every year for the past 16, I have "ridden my age" on my birthday and 79 will be no different. Cheers and keep smilin'. I'm in Canada, just north of the 1000 islands bridge crossing in NYS.
Hi Alan and thank you for telling your story! At 78 you are an inspiration to many including me. I will look into Kinomap. Thanks again and all the best, Steve
I am 72 and cycle 100 - 120 miles per week in all weather's. Never felt better and not covid vaccinated!!!
Congratulations on riding. Need to get all the help you can for you and others and get vaccinated. Don’t be like so many young mothers refusing to get their kids vaccinated for polio and measles. They are coming back because of misinformation. Same for covid. Good luck
Well it nice to see I am not the oldest one here lol. I am 76 and have been told I need a knee replacement. I had a bad motorcycle accident man-years ago. messed up my left knee and shoulder. After my wonderful wife of 52 years passed, I let myself go and came very close to pushing up flowers lol. Doctor got me back on track. Lots of walking and exercising together with learning how the kitchen works helps. I then purchased an e-bike and have been enjoying longer and longer rides. Getting out in God's beautiful earth and away from the tube helps in many ways. Like your channel. What audio/video devices are you using? I have been learning the hard way, but with some success. You are amazing! Keep the videos coming, Grandpa Dan...
Hi Dan and thank you for sharing! Good to hear you are making progress after such life changing event such as the passing of your wife. My condolences Dan. An e-bike is a great way to get out in the fresh air and feel the breeze on your face. As far as my video equipment I use a Sony ZV-1 point and shoot video capable camera. I have an external microphone but hardly use it. The internal one works fine. I have a Sony action camera mounted on the handlebars to video forward movement. I'm always learning video techniques and editing. Keeps my busy since I retired from a very active job 3 years ago. Thanks again Dan and have a great weekend, Steve
@@steveretiredandcycling Thanks, I can see I have a lot to learn lol. I have 4 elcheepo action camera and am finally getting a usable video. Also invested in a Zoom h1 recorder, because of wind noise lol. Today I finally invested in Cyborlink Powerdirector for video editing. iMovie just left a lot missing. Also, thanks for the quick reply, Grandpa Dan
73 and still mountainbiking
Hey Lawrence, keep on pedaling my friend!, Steve
Good morning Steve , I just saw this video. I have RUclips Premium and so I get some good stuff plus no Ad's !! I will turn 70 in November if the Lord wills. This was a great video, great advice and great outlook. I have been an active Cyclist for over 20 years. About 2 and 1/2 years ago I moved to Gulf Shores. I am remarried to a wonderful lady and live on what we call the Island. In 2022 I rode 3500 miles mainly down a road that is described as the most dangerous road in Alabama ,Fort Morgan Road . It is 20 miles in length and ends at Fort Morgan at the mouth of Mobile Bay. Last August ,I had my annual checkup with my doctor. When the results came back , my A1C was up, I was prediabetic, I was anemic ! Now you might think ,it was my diet or I sat on the sofa or drank to much beer ! Well in a nutshell Steve ,I was 69 years old . In resent months ,I had to go on blood pressure meds. I have an enlarged prostate and will have surgery next week. I am not whining here but to share what getting old can give you. A few months ago we got a rescue pit bull that is sweet as sunshine and loved to be walked. We have quite a large yard which I mow with what the call now, a wall behind. It is battery operated , I have a 8 gen Apple watch which is an amazing piece of Tech. Our neighbor is gone on an extended vacation. I mowed his yard yesterday and my watch recorded 2.25 miles , heart rate average 112 Bpm . We also have a lap pool that is 75' X 15 ' and a peloton . So I have no excuses ,but I have found that I can't do strenuous back to back activities anymore. I do the best I can, my primary exercise is cycling. In my opinion diet and exercise are critical but age is our biggest nemesis!
Hi Greg, thanks for sharing your situation. Age throws all sorts of roadblocks at us as you have experienced. Sounds like you aren't making excuses because of your situation. You're trying your best to manage your situation and that makes you a true champion.Thanks again Greg. And have a good day, Steve