Fifty Plus (50+) - philisophical question to ponder...

Hi fellow over 50 folks, I kinda lurk around the 50+ forum and post a reply occasionally, but this is may first thread.

A little pre question intro; I am 53, will be 54 very soon and the wife is going to be 50 in Nov. We are among the faster riders in our area and often have taken heat for it, ie. why do you guys always ride so fast...you ride too much, things like that. Well in pondering this question, while riding, I think I have found a reply and wanted some thoughts from others, or maybe better yet, comments on wether this has crossed your thoughts as well, so here goes...

My reply would be; "because someday I won't be able to do this anymore"

It often enters my thoughts as I ride on a beautiful road, race some young gun up a hill, or do 150 mile ride just because I can, that there will come a time when none of this will no longer be possible and in a personnel way it saddens me. Have or do any of you ponder this?

This forum has some unique perspectives and I will enjoy seeing what others have to say.

DAN

I do..but keep a postive outlook which it sounds you do.
I too am 50, and ride 350-400 miles per month. I usually average 18-19 mph.

Here's one to ponder; I'm out the other week riding my usual route when I hear this huffing behind me.
Here I glance to the side to see this guy, who must have been 65-70 on an old schwinn varsity clocking right there with me. I mean this guy had white knee socks, dickies shorts, sneakers, a tee shirt, no gloves, no helmet. Far from a biker looking dude....and he's blowing by me like I'm standing still.

The question sounds like a veiled compliment to me.

It sounds far preferable to "how do you manage to ride so slow?", which is what I'm asked all too often.

Ride at your own pace and let others ride at their's. This applies to both sides of the comment. I tend to get a little quirky when others tell me what I should or should not do. (assuming it's a personal thing, not business)

"If you can't raise yourself to other's levels, bring them down to your own level."

That is what your acquaintances are doing to you.

Who knows how fast you can ride in later years? We have some 65+'rs who could wipe you out - Will Dehne, for one. Not I, however.

That really isn't the point. You ride fast because you can and you enjoy it. They are simply jealous.

So, if they ask "why do you guys always ride so fast...you ride too much, things like that,"

Tell them:

"Because I(we) can and I(we) enjoy it."

Yep. I'm 57 and still ride a bicycle for pretty much the same reason I did 50 years ago: wind in my face, bending into curves, sunshine or rain, simple physical principles demonstrated in the great world.

Ride with younger riders or ride alone.

I stopped riding with one club, their "very fast" rides (according to their website) were not-so-fast. I was killing 4 hours to ride 45 miles, this included a 30 minute break. I can do 70 miles in that time if I ride alone.

I now ride longer rides with a friend who is younger. We are well matched in personality, pace and distance.

Michael

I think that my reference to "I'm too fast" is miss leading what I'm shooting for in this convesation. The point of the inquiry is, "do you think about the time you will no longer be able to ride" this may be because of age, injury, whatever!

Ability isn't my motive, the diminishing of ability/health is!!!

Based on my parent’s longevity and health as they approached 75 and 85, I think I'll be cycling a long time.

I hope to cycle at a 17 mph pace until I'm 70. I'll have to stop riding about 5 to 10 years after that. This will be more out of fear of injury than anything else.

I've got about 25 more years.

Michael

So, if they ask "why do you guys always ride so fast...you ride too much, things like that,"

Tell them:

"Because I(we) can and I(we) enjoy it."

That would be my response. :thumb:

Barrett,
Not to be morbid, but to illistrate, in my mom's family all the women lived into their 90's, so she felt she would be around to a ripe old age as well. She died at 65. My wifes father was an athelete and very active person, he now sits in a chair 24/7, cannot talk or care for himself, been this way for about 4-5 years he's 74. So it's not like you will get to choose when it will end, you just hope you will be one of the lucky ones.

I know that. I'm planning on what's probable, not what's possible.

I also am living well everyday, knowing what it all could stop at anytime.

Michael

I think that my reference to "I'm too fast" is miss leading what I'm shooting for in this convesation. The point of the inquiry is, "do you think about the time you will no longer be able to ride" this may be because of age, injury, whatever!

Ability isn't my motive, the diminishing of ability/health is!!!

The answer from me is: All the time but in a positive way. I thank Providence for being able to do what I do as long as Providence lets me do it.
This answers your question I think.
There are two more reasons why I bike fast compared to most people.
Weight control
I love to eat and drink well. I put on weight fast if I do not bike or exercise 3 hours per day. The alternative is starving my system. That is no fun at all.
BTW, slow biking will do nothing for weight control.
Runners High
I get an feeling of euphoria if I bike fast and long. For instance: On our get together in Glenn Wood Springs I did the round trip from GWS to the Tavern and back under 4 hours. That is total time and there are many stops and lights on that 70 mile round trip. I was high as a kite from that ride and followed with a car drive to North Platte Nebraska.
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Nowhere enters the opinion of others in these priorities. It is MY LIFE.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOfaYFIHt1g

Barrett,
Not to be morbid, but to illistrate, in my mom's family all the women lived into their 90's, so she felt she would be around to a ripe old age as well. She died at 65. My wifes father was an athelete and very active person, he now sits in a chair 24/7, cannot talk or care for himself, been this way for about 4-5 years he's 74. So it's not like you will get to choose when it will end, you just hope you will be one of the lucky ones.

This is so true. Absolutly matches my experience.
This fact of life makes me go faster in defiance to the fact that we are powerless in the face of Providence. Going full speed with my bike into the face of a rainstorm, on Aero bars is such a response.
That is why some people do Hang Gliding, Mountain Climbing, Risk their lifes in all out endavors.
This is NOT for everyone, just some of us.
IT IS MY LIFE, watch the song video (bon jovi).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOfaYFIHt1g

I try not to plan for that which I can't do. I try to do what I can.

To me the key would be to live in the present as much as possible. As long as I can ride today, if I want, that is the important thing to me. I usually can't totally control what happens in my future, so hopefully, what I do today will have a positive effect on the future. That is, if I don't get run over by a semi.:)

So, if they ask "why do you guys always ride so fast...you ride too much, things like that,"

Tell them:

"Because I(we) can and I(we) enjoy it."
+1. I was going to write the same thing.

Hi fellow over 50 folks, I kinda lurk around the 50+ forum and post a reply occasionally, but this is may first thread.

My reply would be; "because someday I won't be able to do this anymore"

It often enters my thoughts as I ride on a beautiful road, race some young gun up a hill, or do 150 mile ride just because I can, that there will come a time when none of this will no longer be possible and in a personnel way it saddens me. Have or do any of you ponder this?

This forum has some unique perspectives and I will enjoy seeing what others have to say.

DAN

Its about the meaning of life. Once you accept your own mortality, you hope to grow old gracefully. I think its a good idea for younger riders to socialize with riders who are in their 70's or 80's. When you're young, everything is self centered. When you get older, you look outwards, to others and accept their faults along with their virtues. Its about self giving. Do you remember Shel Silverstein's book, the Giving Tree?

. . . It often enters my thoughts as I ride on a beautiful road, race some young gun up a hill, or do 150 mile ride just because I can, that there will come a time when none of this will no longer be possible and in a personnel way it saddens me. Have or do any of you ponder this?

It's always possible you will not reach that age.

"You do what you think is best for you. I'll do what I think is best for me."

Works for lots of situations.

There's a critic around every corner, isn't there? I'm 56, enjoy many hobbies and still love to ride horses, kayak and bicycle. I'm in good health and certainly do not take it for granted, but also believe that one should seize the day and do whatever one enjoys for as long as possible. My mother passed away at age 51, my father at 61 and my best friend died in her sleep of a heart attack-at 43.

One of my favorite quotes from a movie is: "I don't want to look back and be at the end of someone else's life." That said, continue to do whatever makes you happy and avoid negative people who don't seem to 'get it'.

qcottay, that is so true! In a way though, that may in fact be an easier out! I mean when the end comes, it comes and so it shall be, but I wonder what it will be like to look back some day and say "man, I use to ride like that" or "wow I miss being able to (add what you like here)"

Retro grouch, I think you miss my point, read post #8

qcottay, that is so true! In a way though, that may in fact be an easier out! I mean when the end comes, it comes and so it shall be, but I wonder what it will be like to look back some day and say "man, I use to ride like that" or "wow I miss being able to (add what you like here)"

Nope - I don't do that.

I keep finding new and interesting stuff to do and learn, to use my talents in different ways.

Each day is a new challenge, where I find and use new talents to meet those challenges.

I doon't look back with regrets, only forward with anticipation.

Sounds like your setting yourself up for depression.
Yes - I consider that there are only so many seasons left - what that number is I don't know. This only makes me want to make the best out of them while hoping that medical technology will give me even more.

..."because someday I won't be able to do this anymore"...

I used to run. I ran everything from the 50 yard dash to marathons. I ran in the flats and in the mountains. I loved it and I thought I could do this forever. Then at age 57 a knee injury ended my running career and I could not do this anymore.

I ride now. I love it. I will ride for as many years as I can.

To answer your question....no. I have not thought about the future of my riding. Maybe I should and in some way maybe I really do, by riding I believe I am extending my time. But to be honest I ride today and hope there is a tomorrow for me to ride again.

I think you have given me something to think about though.

Hi fellow over 50 folks, I kinda lurk around the 50+ forum and post a reply occasionally, but this is may first thread.

A little pre question intro; I am 53, will be 54 very soon and the wife is going to be 50 in Nov. We are among the faster riders in our area and often have taken heat for it, ie. why do you guys always ride so fast...you ride too much, things like that. Well in pondering this question, while riding, I think I have found a reply and wanted some thoughts from others, or maybe better yet, comments on wether this has crossed your thoughts as well, so here goes...

My reply would be; "because someday I won't be able to do this anymore"

It often enters my thoughts as I ride on a beautiful road, race some young gun up a hill, or do 150 mile ride just because I can, that there will come a time when none of this will no longer be possible and in a personnel way it saddens me. Have or do any of you ponder this?

This forum has some unique perspectives and I will enjoy seeing what others have to say.

DAN


This is the reason I ride mostly by myself. I can go as fast or slow as I want and ride as far as I want and the only person that can be upset with me is me.

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Nowhere enters the opinion of others in these priorities. It is MY LIFE.[/QUOTE]

Right on.

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Nowhere enters the opinion of others in these priorities. It is MY LIFE.

Right on.[/QUOTE]

This is for those of you too young to know:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOfaYFIHt1g

Right on.

This is for those of you too young to know:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOfaYFIHt1g[/QUOTE]


Right on.

. . .why do you guys always ride so fast...you ride too much, things like that. . .rreply would be; "because someday I won't be able to do this anymore"

Life is short. Spend time in the saddle, not providing apologia for why you live your life as you do. Let your trim body and serene mind do your explaining for you.

I used to ponder such stuff....until some very close loved ones who were healthy, vital, active people suddenly passed away. I no longer worry about what I won't be able to do in the future. Rather, I focus on what I can do today... tomorrow may or may not come. Should it come, I'll be thankful and deal with whatever it brings me.

In terms of the questions from the "other riders", I see these kinds of questions as "bear trap" questions. They don't really want an answer. They want to trap you into thinking the way they think and/or behaving the way they want you to behave. Personally, I would tend to answer those kinds of questions with, "Tell me what you really want to say. I get the feeling that you'd like me to conform to your standards of riding. I'm hopeful my feelings are wrong."

As to the qeustion about why you ride so much, the answer is that you live in Elyria and there's nothing else to do.

As to the qeustion about why you ride so much, the answer is that you live in Elyria and there's nothing else to do.

I must defend the OP a little here. Ohio does have some of the nicest cycling trails in the USA. We as cyclist should commend Ohio for that (cost money). There may be not much else to do in Elyria but the same can be said for many mid size towns in the USA such as Rockford, IL and many more.
I bike in Ohio since my Son lives in Dayton area. Fantastic bike trails. Wish we had them and wish they would connect all over the USA.
Biking allows us to be outside a lot in the summer. Bugs are bad in the Mid West but OK if you bike.
Fitness is an additional benefit.
If I would want cultural diversity I would go back to Germany. No contest.

Retro grouch, I think you miss my point, read post #8

No, I don't think that I did. I do whatever I think is best for me at the time. What I think is best for me changes over time. When that happens, I change too.

Right now I can't ride at all due to injuries that I suffered in a bicycle accident. I guess that if I were to worry too much that it might recur, I'd be afraid to ride anymore. Insted, my highest priority is to avoid a setback so that I'll be able to get back on the bike as soon as possible.

I going to die one day also,I don't think about that either.

My reply would be: "because someday I won't be able to do this anymore"

DAN

That's the right answer! I'm 58 and ride like the wind while still I can!!!! I was riding the Lake Tahoe ride and a woman blew past me going up Spooner like I was walking. We got to the end of the ride and I went up to compliment her on her fitness. She was 66. hehe

Leinad,

You are at a place where demands on your life are diminished. Both you and your wife have taken riding a bicycle to another level and are doing it together. More power to the both of you! Enjoy and savor the moment. If your interest and passion in riding faster and longer lingers then pursue it until your heart's no longer in it.

Last summer both my grown boys were riding road bikes and lived locally. They would both ride on our local group rides and I even got to do several races with them. Life's pathway includes changes, one son now teaches in Columbus and the other has entered grad school for the next year. I don't know if I will ever be able to ride with them like last summer but I will always have the memories. My commitment to riding is also balanced into my wife's life and around our other interest even though my dedication to the activity is paramount.

"so fast"? "so much"? So what is "too fast"? And what is "too much"? I ride as fast as I do because I enjoy it and I ride as much as I do because I enjoy it.

I shouldn't post to this forum as I am no where near this age, but I know a guy who's 96 years old and continues to ride. Saw him just yesterday. He rides slow, on an old style bike, but he rides. Has his raincoat on, and a hat. And just rides.

I also met another woman who's 76, used to be a racing cyclist. She still rides. She also told me about her best friend who's 74, and also still rides.

Chin up everyone.

The classic response to the "why ride a bicycle" is the traditional Zen story. I'm sure most of you have heard or read it, but for those who have not:

Five students of a Zen master was back from the market on their bicycles. As they dismounted, their master asked : Why are you riding your bicycles ?"

Each of them came up with different answers to their master's query.

The first student said "It is the bicycle that is carrying the sack of potatoes. I am glad that my back has escaped the pain of bearing the weight"

The master was glad and said : " You are a smart boy. When you become old you will be saved of a hunch back unlike me"

The second student had a different answer. " I love to have my eyes over the trees and the sprawling fields as I go riding"

The teacher commended : "You have your eyes open and you see the world"

The third disciple came up with yet a different answer : " When I ride I am content to chant 'nam myoho renge kyo'"

The master spoke words of appreciation " Your mind will roll with ease like a newly trued wheel"

The fourth disciple said : "Riding my bicycle in live in perfect harmony of things"

The pleased master said " You are actually riding the golden path of non-harming or non violence"

The fifth student said " I ride my bicycle to ride my bicycle"

The master walked up to him and sat at his feet and said "I am your disciple!"

(From: http://living.oneindia.in/yoga-spirituality/anecdotes/2009/riding-bicycle-zen-short-story-030209.html)

L.

My reply would be; "because someday I won't be able to do this anymore"

It often enters my thoughts as I ride on a beautiful road, race some young gun up a hill, or do 150 mile ride just because I can, that there will come a time when none of this will no longer be possible and in a personnel way it saddens me. Have or do any of you ponder this?
This forum has some unique perspectives and I will enjoy seeing what others have to say.

DAN


Hi Dan!

Nice post. I highlighted the part that spoke to me, because I feel that same way quite often. And you and the Mrs are really quite amazing in what you have accomplished, and the challenges you continue to rise to, in cycling. I especially think it's great that you can share your passion for cycling together as a couple. I'm getting Greg to come along, slow but sure!

I'm not quite 50 yet, but I certainly see the years piling up and getting used to the idea that I'm not as young as I used to be.

I guess for me it will always be a matter of trying to be the best I can, no matter the age. I might not be able to rock a sub-5hr century when I'm 65 (well, I can't do that now, but no matter :rolleyes:) but I know that I will be able to enjoy myself on the bike if I adjust my expectations and try to make the best I can of what will undoubtedly at some point become a diminishing capacity.

Colleen

I ride fast, as fast as I can. Like I am in a race, but against who, what?
I race against laziness,those tasty snacks in the cupboard, old age and inevitability.
I must stay ahead of the vices and I might out run the inescapable for a little while longer If I put the work in.

I am like a breakaway out in front of the peleton of old age and slowing down.
Eventually I will be caught but I will fight for every minute and every mile I can stay off the front.

Thanks all!! It has been fun to read the many perspectives that each derives from the posed question. I don't think that there is a true right or wrong answer. It is all what each of us needs and desires and drives us on.

BTW Elyria ain't that bad, jeez! LOL! Well if ya been reading the paper lately I guess maybe it is.

I ride to enjoy today not knowing what tomorrow holds. Yes, I would miss it very much if it all ended tomorrow and certainly hope I will be doing it 30 years from now but am not booking any races or tours that far out..

I grew up in North Olmsted and my wife the west side of Cleveland - very familiar with Elyria. You need to find stronger cycling friends. We belong to a racing club and there is never a discussion about cycling too much, getting too strong or going too fast. We talk a lot about winning. Non cycling friends are totally clueless about performance cycling and the discipline required and many somewhat accomplished cyclists mostly clueless about racing.

I stay focused on my cycling goals and do not obsess about hypotheticals of getting old and blah blah blah. I think it is useless waste of energy, counter productive and in many cases out of my control. For ME, one thing is certain...I feel better and have a better state of well being with goals. The key for me is to make them achievable. IMHO, that is age independent.

Geez!!! Got kids older than you!!!
At age 76 am doing it, and not just thinking it.
My days of sub-5 hour centuries are over. Am much slower now, but still can kick in a pretty good short sprint.
Still pedalin' 100+ miles a week.

I sometimes ride with a fellow who owns a jersey that says on the back: "You have just been passed by an 80 year old man." Please don't ask me how I know.

He holds an organized ride on his birthday each year. This summer the ride was 84 miles - with a cake stop in the middle.

I've been saying the same thing in many contexts, including cycling, for at least 15 years. A few years ago, in my 50s, I re-roofed my house by myself. It was pretty straightforward, just climb up there and nail down shingles, but people kept coming by making the usual comments about age, not accepting the passage of time, risking my life, blah blah blah: "Why are you doing that at your age?"
Because I still can, but won't always be able to. Because I'm a desk worker and enjoy the change. Because I saved between $5000 and $7000 with three or four days of work.
I'll be 65 in January, and every time I get on the bike these days, I remind myself to enjoy the ride, because I don't know how many I have left.