Old Man on a Bicycle: A Ride Across America and How to Realize a More Enjoyable Old Age

by Don Petterson

When Don Petterson, a former American ambassador, told family and friends he intended to ride a bicycle from New Hampshire to San Francisco, most of them questioned his judgment, if not his sanity. He was in his seventies, hadn't been on a bike for years, and had never ridden more than a few miles at a time. But, in May 2002, putting doubters-and self-doubt-behind him, Petterson headed west. Laboring against strong headwinds, struggling up steep hills, or coping with extreme weather, he sometimes wondered what in the world he was doing. But he kept going-the lure of riding his bike across the Golden Gate a compelling incentive. Ahead of him lay many challenges-among them, riding his loaded bike over the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada, crossing the Great Plains in brutal summer heat, dealing with the aftermath of a collision with a car, and traversing Nevada's basin and range country and the Great Salt Lake's desert. His rewards included passing through spectacular mountain forests, experiencing the aching beauty of the lonely plains, and viewing the grandeur of the West's sculpted canyons and mesas. In Old Man on a Bicycle, the author relates how he prepared for the 3,600-mile journey and what he saw and did during the two months he was on the road. In addition he rebuts the misconception that aging means debilitating decline and, drawing on certain events of his ride, offers research-based advice on how to ease the physical aspects of aging. It's an inspirational account, emphasizing the importance of exercise to physical and mental well-being.

236 pages, Paperback

First published June 10, 2014

Reviews

[Scott Shertzer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Got this to read while on the beach. I expected a little more introspection of people he met and the places he visited. Left me wanting a much deeper dive. I did find the cost of hotels interesting and some of the stories. Just wished there was more. Quick easy read.

[Rick · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was entertaining. The author is a bit of a nut. I didn’t like all his advice.

[Daniel Seifert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Don Petterson, an early seventies male, tours solo on a bicycle from Brentwood, New Hampshire, to San Francisco, California in 67 days at 3,668 miles. He does not travel fully loaded, but takes the minimal equipment eating in restaurants and sleeping in hotels. The text essentially comes from his journal and provides good description of
his route, the challenges with wind and terrain, as well as the difficulties that are a part of aging and long distance cycling in general. It's generally a good read for anyone interested in considering a long trek across the country and specifically for anyone in their midlife or following.