My Recovery Time is SHAT!
 

As an over 50 fabulous fat and fit fella I find that I can for the most part ride pretty well but the recovery is double what is used to be. I need a nap after a good ride just to function. I am wondering if it is my new normal or is my physical abilities taking a huge hit and I just sux. Back to back long and difficult days seem almost impossible. I am actually going out today to ride the MTB after a nice 21 mile ride yesterday. Legs still have the post ride tingle.

Yes, planning ride time with sufficient rest and recovery is essential. Nothing wrong with a nap. I've been using the features in Strava to manage my overall effort and rest. Strava has a several features to track activity;

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I am beginning to notice this too, I can be sore for a week after a tough ride. Though much of the soreness goes away once I get back on the bike and am warmed up. I'm not sure if the soreness is really worse, or I'm just more aware of it than when I was in my 20's, 30's and 40's.

If recovery time is getting worse than your similarly-aged friends', have your T checked.

Yes, recovery takes longer. I rode up in the mountains today - 68 mile, 7K feet climbing. I'm sure I'm in for at least a two day recovery from that.
Recovery isn't all that bad - it allows time for the gains to soak in. But consistency does take a hit; sure. A lot of the reason why I'm slower now is that I just cant put in as much training as I used to.

First of all, I'm no doctor. If you feel as if you're body isn't reacting properly to the stresses you are putting yourself through ask your doctor about it. Maybe some detailed blood work is warranted. It could be something as simple as a vitamin deficiency.

I think we can all agree that we're not the person we were 30 years ago. But, I think following a regiment of consuming sensible healthy foods, staying hydrated, stretching and exercising within our abilities is about all you can do. I like to alternate my bike days with gym days. Sometimes I alternate my gym days with a walk in the park day. Any movement is good.

But don't beat yourself up about the need for a nap, we've all been there. some of my best naps have been after a unusually strenuous ride.

I know nothing but this type of reaction, I only started riding 3 yrs ago at 50, and I am either sore or tired, or loose and riding ever since
not too much in between, at least you have something to compare to, I wish I had started earlier,
just started taking some more vitamins, hoping that helps with recovery, there is a ton of stuff I should try to make it better,
just doesn't seem to be enough time, every day seems to be a struggle

Get used to it. The clock only goes one way. I admire your persistence. Carry on. Trust me, I know. I will be 71 in June :p