The Shark Bell riders’ Otago Harbour double-crossing event split up the riders into two groups of 12, one group leaving from Portsmouth Dr, the other from Bayfield Park.
Organiser John Fridd said all of the riders were aged over 60, with some of them in their 80s.
"We call it growing old disgracefully.
"I retired about three years ago, and I didn’t want to become one of those people who stayed at home and watched the TV all day.
"I wanted to make friends and get out there in the public.
"It obviously struck a chord because we have about 160 people on our list.
"My worst nightmare is that all of them decide to come at once one day."
The first group of riders rode from North East Valley, climbed North Rd to Upper Junction Rd, and then rode to Back Beach to meet the Sootychaser ferry.
The second group of riders climbed Larnach Rd before riding Highcliff Rd to Portobello to catch the ferry.
After lunch, both groups rode the shared paths beside Otago Harbour to get back to their respective start spots.
All told, both groups rode about 34km.
"I wanted the course to feature a few hill climbs, but still be an easy enough ride to enjoy on a social level.
"When you’re at our age, you’ve got to include lots of variety to keep people interested," Mr Fridd said.
Most of the cyclists rode e-bikes, which could reach speeds of more than 70kmh downhill.
"It’s quite something seeing the 80-year-olds hurtle down the hills.
"Cycling is one of those pastimes you can keep up to an old age.
"I’m 70 now.
"I hope to still be doing this when I’m in my 80s — the group has been very inspiring."
