I was 36 when I started riding. I'm 52 now. I used to ride about 5,000/year but neck problems & surgery got in the way the last couple of years.

I think I have improved because I've learned a lot about bike handling, how to fuel during a ride and when to lay back.

I've never raced, nor had any desire to do so. I'm sure my aerobic capacity has declined but it has been so subtle that I haven't noticed it. I ride to keep my head on straight.