sienna

My sister and I bought our 66-yr-old mom a Specialized Crossroads bike for Christmas with full accessories and a helmet. She's ridden bikes all her life but was recently sick and inactive for a year. Yesterday she finally took the bike out for her first ride. She wasn't wearing the helmet, fell getting off the bike, landed on her head and needed stitches. Now she says she isn't going to ride the bike any more. I hate to see her give up so easily. Can anyone suggest any words of encouragement for her?

jabike

Mom, get on that bike NOW!!! You are only six years older than I am and age is not going to be allowed for an excuse!! Get on your bike NOW!!! I ride 5 days a week and average 7800 miles a year. You should be able to do at least a few miles.

DnvrFox

Tell her my wife is one year older than she is and does 25 mile rides. It took my wife some time to feel comfortable on a bike - she started when she was 61!

Could you accompany her on a ride?

Have her read the 50+ forum.

mdsteve

My mom had a major stroke in her early 60's. While in rehab/recovery the told her she would probably be able to walk, but only with a cane. Being a bit fiesty mom made several allusions to where they might store a cane....well, you get the idea. Once she was released to come home my wife and myself took her to a local major department store where we put her (with a bit of effort) onto a stationary bike... The people in store thought we were being abusive, but mom loved the stationary bike. Within 6-8 months she had put several hundred miles on the stationary bike, so we decided to get here a real bike. Being concerned about her balance we opted for an adult tricycle. Not only did it help her further with her recovery it also gave her a bit of freedom since she was not allowed to drive a car. Ultimately, she wrote several magazine articles for "Bicycling" magazine on the advantages of riding for folks her age and condition. We lost her two years ago at age 76. So to your mom....climb back aboard, find an area where you feel comfortable riding and enjoy the freedom and excitement.

zonatandem

Am 6 years older than your mom. Spouse is 4 years older than your mom.
We both have (gasp!) cancer. We ride 5 or 6 days a week.
So what's her problem?
Strap on that helmet, put on them gloves and funky riding shorts and go for a ride with your kids!
Growing old is NOT for sissies! . . . and at 70+ we ain't 'old!'
Rudy and Kay/Zonatandem

overthere

How about a trike? No chance of fallng over, although it might be work to get in and out at first...

FarHorizon

I hate to stir this pot, but have you considered getting her an Electra Townie? She could sit on the seat with both feet flat on the ground... Should make her feel more secure.