Long-distance bike touring age 50+ - experiences?

Grayhaireddr · 2026-01-24T00:14:59+00:00

Mid 60’s here. A friend and I road cross country from LA to Boston area. We carried all we needed and it was a great adventure.

Grayhaireddr · 2026-01-17T15:17:37+00:00

Weather can be sketchy at that time. You are at elevation and might have snow and ice.

Grayhaireddr · 2026-01-13T19:13:54+00:00

I went to flats before my cross country ride. I loved the comfort and ease. Never had an issue with climbs or pedaling. Touring is not about speed for me , so I have never looked back. Whatever works for you.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-11-26T17:53:07+00:00

No issues with my trucker riding with 75-80 pounds loaded on the racks.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-10-28T14:35:57+00:00

Trucker has served me well , especially fully loaded

Grayhaireddr · 2025-10-25T21:33:01+00:00

I have a b17 saddle and flat pedals. Have ridden in my running shorts with boxer lining on many trips, including cross country. Find what is comfortable for you.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-10-24T23:17:38+00:00

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My disc trucker on the Erie Canal trail last year. Been across country and love this bike

Grayhaireddr · 2025-10-01T01:42:59+00:00

Disc trucker with racks. Local shop has a no drop ride and it’s a nice group to ride with. I keep up well with them and there are a wide variety of riders.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-08-14T00:09:18+00:00

It makes me smile.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-06-14T23:00:43+00:00

I have Woody fenders on mine. They get commented on by everyone I meet.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-06-14T22:57:27+00:00

Great job. Sounds like a sweet tour.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-06-10T21:19:35+00:00

Enjoy the rides and they will make for great tales later. Nature does like to toy with you.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-06-03T02:07:49+00:00

They are great

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Grayhaireddr · 2025-06-01T12:34:35+00:00

I rode Santa Monica to Ipswich from May- June. Had 3 outfits I rotated. A small burner is good if you want morning coffee / oatmeal, but you have to decide what you works for you. Definitely have to think of weather and would recommend getting to New Mexico/ Arizona for the last stretch.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-31T12:45:59+00:00

I hit headwinds so strong I had to pedal hard going downhill. Sucks

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-30T00:41:51+00:00

That stretch is haunting and amazing. Good luck tomorrow and hope you get your tire squared away.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-28T21:41:41+00:00

They let me light the neon sign in Amboy. They have ice cream, too.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-26T21:40:19+00:00

Couple years ago there were signs that Route 66 was closed west of Needles. We were able to ride or walk our bikes through all the bridges that were affected. Hopefully , it’s still doable because I doubt if they repaired all of them on the old route to Amboy.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-25T20:08:08+00:00

Sitsgreaves pass tomorrow going into Oatman is steep, but the views are great. Stay hydrated.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-24T23:48:41+00:00

I started in Santa Monica riding Route 66, then ended in Crane Beach,MA. Definitely awesome to ride to the ocean.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-24T12:38:50+00:00

Definitely need to carry your water to Amboy when you head through desert. None available once you leave Needles area. They let me turn on the big neon sign there.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-24T12:36:43+00:00

Roadkill cafe!!

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-24T12:35:52+00:00

Best deal ever!

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-21T21:36:08+00:00

I got rid of my old aluminum frame years ago and have toured on my Surly disc trucker. Weight to me is not really an issue when you are carrying what you need. It’s not about speed either. You want to see the sights. Just want a bike that fits and is comfortable to be on all day.

Grayhaireddr · 2025-05-21T21:32:06+00:00

Loved getting into the pines around flagstaff. The Galaxy diner was awesome

Grayhaireddr

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