1. What type of bikes do 50+ folks ride?

Since I’ve lived on a sailboat for 17 years, of necessity I have always had a folder. I currently have two: 26” Dahon mountain bike, and 16” stainless, ultra-compact. I have the 26” in Gig Harbor, WA and the 16” down in Mexico where I live in the winter. But I’m getting more serious about riding, thinking of doing the Seattle to Portland (STP) next year, and consequently feel I ought to consider getting a road or sport bike.

2. Do you take any special supplements/vitamins/minerals as you have grown older?

Just turned 60 in July, and so far I don’t take any pills.

3. How much do you feel you have "slowed down" if any?

I don’t feel it, but when the 30-40-year-olds go ripping by, I SEE it.

4. How long have you been biking? New, around a while, biked all your life?

Lived on a farm as a kid and had to ride my coaster to get anywhere. Didn’t start riding again until I started cruising on a sailboat and needed transportation wherever we tied up or anchored, so have been riding on and off for the last 20 years or so. However, I have only recently begun to ride just for the fun and benefits of riding.

5. What type of biking do you do? Long rides, touring, short rec rides, commute, tour, race?

My longest ride thus far is 33 miles (however, I once road the 16” 3-speed folder 40 miles on the California Delta levies, but that was over the course of an entire day with lots of stops). I hope to continue riding further and longer, building up the endurance to do the STP next year. The harbor where I live is surrounded by hills, so it is up no matter what route I take. So far I’m primarily interested in riding as a way of staying in shape and long road rides seem to suit me. Maybe I’ll get interested in touring someday. In addition to the STP I might like to do some other long rides.

6. How often do you bike? Your approximate annual mileage?

I’ve been trying to go out at least three, sometimes four days a week or about every other day. I’m doing about 100 miles a week now. Don’t know if that will increase or decrease.

7. Do you do any other type of physical activities - weight lifting, skiing, running, etc.?

I was running but have quit since I started riding. While in Mexico I swim occasionally. I ride the bike the short commute to work 2-3 days a week.