Cycle racing Books

Book SynopsisWith a new Afterword.Lance Armstrong won a record-smashing seven Tour de France yellow jerseys after staring down cancer, and in the process became an international symbol of resilience and courage. In a sport constantly dogged by blood doping scandals, Armstrong seemed above the fray. Never had cycling - or any sport-boasted such a charismatic and accomplished champion. Then, in the summer of 2012, the legend imploded. The rumors that had long dogged Armstrong began to solidify. Buried evidence surfaced. Hushed-up witnesses came forth. Armstrong''s Tour victories were stripped from him. His sponsors abandoned him. In January 2013, Armstrong finally admitted doping during the Tours, and in an interview with Oprah, described his mythic, perfect story as one big lie. But his admission raised more questions than it answered. With over three years of extensive reporting, deep sourcing, and interviews with nearly every key player, including Armstrong, Reed Trade ReviewCaptivating * The Economist *A detailed account of Armstrong's eventual descent into disgrace * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisJan Ullrich: The Best There Never Was is the first biography of Jan Ullrich, arguably the most naturally talented cyclist of his generation, and also one of the most controversial champions of the Tour de France.In 1997, Jan Ullrich announced himself to the world by obliterating his rivals in the first mountain stage of the Tour de France. So awesome was his display that it sent shockwaves throughout the world of cycling and invited headlines such as L’Équipe’s ‘The New Giant’. He went on to become Germany’s first ever Tour winner, storming to victory in that edition by almost ten minutes, a result that was greeted as an era-defining changing of the guard. Everyone agreed: Jan Ullrich was the future of cycling. He was soon also voted Germany’s most popular sportsperson of all time, and his rivalry with Lance Armstrong defined the most controversial years of the Tour de France.Now, Daniel Friebe – who has covered twenty-one editions of the Tour de France – has gone in search of the man who was said in 1997 would go on to dominate his sport for a generation, but never quite managed it.Just what did happen to the best who never was?This is a gripping account of how unbearable expectation, mental and physical fragility, the effects of a complicated childhood, a morally corrupt sport and one individual – Lance Armstrong – can conspire to reroute destiny.Daniel Friebe takes us from the legacy of East Germany’s drugs programme to the pinnacle of pro cycling and asks: what price can you give sporting immortality?Trade ReviewMagnificent -- Matt Dickinson, The TimesA superlative biography as well as social and sporting history * Observer *One of the best books about cycling * The Irish Times *One of the best cycling books there ever was. So well written and such deep research -- Edward Pickering, editor of Rouleur and author of The Ronde: inside the World's Toughest Bike Race'Masterpiece' is arguably an over-used word, but if ever a book was deserving of such a description, this is probably it - The Washing Machine PostA well-researched biography . . . painting a consistent picture of this all-too-human character from Rostock * Cycling Plus *Richly researched and sympathetically written . . . extensive, thoughtful * TLS *This biography peels back the layers of not just a legendary cyclist, but an interesting character -- Joe Laverick * Cycling Weekly *A fascinating illustration of a richly gifted but deeply flawed character * MSN Ireland *Terrific . . . comprehensive -- Best of 2022, Cycling Plus

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Book SynopsisThe story of the Giro d'Italia - Italy's equivalent of the Tour de France, and its superior in the eyes of many - is as dramatic and full of extraordinary characters as the story of Italy itself. Heroism, suffering, feuds and betrayals, tradition under threat from modernity all play out against a timeless landscape. The iconic riders, mythical stories and career defining exploits are conveyed in rich, vibrant prose.Trade ReviewThere is a feast of anecdote to enjoy ... a marvellous account ... and a tremendously exciting story. -- Tim Parks * Guardian *The Giro and Italy, Italy and the Giro: this book helps to explain how each has helped shape the other ... This book gives an excellent introduction to the history of the Giro and all that it means to Italy and cycling * Road.cc *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Sports Book Awards 2018 for Biography of the Year and Cycling Book of the Year There are things he does alone, and things that he alone does. Jacques Anquetil was a cyclist with an aristocratic demeanor and a relaxed attitude to rules and morals. His womanising and frank admissions of doping appalled 1960s French society, even as his five Tour de France wins enthralled it. Paul Fournel was besotted with him from the start ("Too young to understand, I was nevertheless old enough to admire") and followed Anquetil's career with the passion of a fan and the eye of a poet. In this stunningly original biography of a complex and divisive character, Fournel - author of the seminal Vélo (or Need for the Bike)- blends the story of Anquetil's life with scenes from his own, to create a classic of cycling literature.Trade ReviewA wonderful little book about a great man -- Tim Krabbé, author of The RiderAt last the coolest of champions gets the biography he deserves -- Richard WilliamsIf you don't know Fournel, then you're missing out, if you don't know Anquetil, then you don't know cycling. -- David MillarAn unconventional take on a fascinating character. This is not your standard cycling biography - and all the better for it. -- Gary ImlachWhat a wonderful book Paul has written. It's is one of the most powerful cycling books I've ever read - certainly the best biography. -- Michael HutchinsonEvokes the mysticism which surrounded Jacques beautifully -- Herbie SykesA magnificent book * Le Monde *A beautiful story * Le Figaro *A profound essay * Libération *Praise for Vélo: Joyous. Destined to become a classic * Road.cc *One of the loveliest pieces of writing about cycling * Cyclingtips *Praise for Need for the Bike 'Paul Fournel is the real deal. In his carefully cadenced prose poem...he shares a passion for the sport matched only by his love of language. * Bicycling *A fascinating mix of bicycling memories, observations, and experiences the author has gathered during a lifetime of cycling ... This very personal book, doled in short, easily digestible doses, packs a meal that ultimately satisfies deeply * ForeWord *

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Book SynopsisIn En Cyclo Pedia Johan Tell - award-winning Swedish writer and cycling obsessive - uncovers the very soul of cycling, exploring and explaining the many and varied stories that form the basis of cycling culture. Beautifully illustrated, with hundreds of entries ranging from Tour de France stages to illegal Alley Cat races, and cult heroes to cycling slang, Tell provides a personal insight into this complex world that only a cycling junkie can. From a pilgrimage to the Bianchi factory in Milan to scouring the streets of New York for the origins of the fixie, via the bicycle cafés of Barcelona and the cobblestones of Flanders, En Cyclo Pedia is a complete A to Z guide to the unique, indescribable character of global bike culture.Entries include:- Alley Cat Race- Bianchi- BMX- Brooks- Cafés- Campagnolo- Carbon Fibre- Drag- Environment- Films- Fixie- Grand Tours- Hand-built- Hipster- Lycra- Mountains- Nutrition- Oudenaarde- Paris-Roubaix- Quicksilver- Rouleur- Scalatore- Shaved Legs- Style- Tattoos- Ultracycling- Velodrome- XC- Zedler...and many more

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Book SynopsisExplore 35 of the most notorious, gruelling cycling climbs the world has to offer, guided by the experts at Cyclist, the world's biggest road cycling magazine.Route maps, altitude charts, first-hand ride reports and incredible imagery from the finest cycling photographers combine in this tribute to the peaks, hills and ascents that every cyclist should try.Tracing the routes of the greatest rides across France, Italy, Spain and Belgium, this beautiful book also includes lesser-known climbs covering northern and eastern Europe and the USA - with every single ride tried, tested and conquered by the experts at Cyclist magazine.Climbs include:Monte Grappa, ItalyZoncolan, ItalyPasso dello Stelvio, ItalyAlto de l'Angliru, SpainSa Calobra, SpainKoppenberg, BelgiumAlpe d'Huez, FranceCol Agnel, FranceCroix de Fer, FranceThe Trollstigen, NowayMauna Kea, USA

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Book SynopsisPush until it hurts, then push some moreEven by the standards of a sport that requires enormous stamina and capacity for suffering, Jens Voigt is in a class on his own. Beloved by cycling fans for his madcap one-man breakaways as much as his sense of humour and quotable catchphrases, Jens is one of the most popular personalities in cycling.Jens was born near Hamburg, and came up through the East German system before the Wall came down. He got into the national team through the German army, before signing for his first big team. In many ways he is cycling’s anti-star; despite arguably spending more time at the front of the Tour de France than any other rider he has only worn the yellow jersey twice as his efforts have always been in the service of others.Jens embodies the best of cycling’s qualities – loyalty to his team, sacrifice, and devotion to the sport. He says, ‘I’m not a head person, I’m more of a heart and guts guy. That’s how I race.’ Shut Up Legs is a funny, insightful and entertaining look at the tough realities of professional cycling, told in Jens’s trademark irreverent and inimitable style.Trade ReviewVoigt defied age, logic, and, regularly, common sense, to craft magical, against-all-odds stage wins * Velonews *Cycling's beloved superfreak * Wall Street Journal *Suffering and Voigt are inseparable … but the man is much more than a catchphrase * Cyclist.co.uk *One of the most recognisable and loved riders in the peloton thanks to his fearsome attacks, irrepressible good humour and memorable sound bites * Cycling news *Classic ‘Jensism’ “Shut up legs!” titles a book that appraises the nuts, bolts, and uncharacteristic German sense of humour behind of one of cycling’s most complex and charismatic characters. * GQ *

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Book SynopsisONE WAY TICKET is the story of a man and modern cycling.Jonathan Vaughters is one of the leading figures in world cycling, a record-breaking mountain climber, Tour de France stage winner and former teammate to Lance Armstrong. He is now manager of the renowned Education First World Tour team.In ONE-WAY TICKET: Nine Lives and Two Wheels he describes a journey from driven teenage prodigy, travelling to races in the back of his Dad's station wagon, to an obsessive determination to make it big - whatever the cost. He tells the story of his transformation from poacher to gamekeeper, detailing his painful decision to finally come clean about his own doping - and to persuade others to do likewise - by providing more than enough shocking testimony to USADA (US Anti-Doping Agency) to explode the Armstrong myth.Working in collaboration with The Times' critically acclaimed cycling correspondent Jeremy Whittle, Vaughters reveals the ease with which, his illusions shattered, he walked away from European racing. He documents his own suffering in races, the trials of establishing a team and mentoring young riders, and the dizzying highs of success in races such as the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia and Paris-Roubaix.Jonathan Vaughters shares his unique experience to lift the lid on a world he has both loathed and loved. Along the way he details the fights and fall-outs with cycling's leading figures, including Lance Armstrong, Pat McQuaid, Johan Bruyneel, Bradley Wiggins and Dave Brailsford.

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Book SynopsisThe Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) is one of the finest long-distance cycle rides in England and tackling the route over four days is a marvellous mini-adventure that should appeal to all sorts of cyclists. Every stage of this 205-mile long cycle route, from Southport on Merseyside to Hornsea in East Yorkshire, is described by author Nicolas Mitchell, including fascinating accounts of its rich industrial heritage and details of many opportunities to explore its glorious natural history. This new book icnludes detailed route maps to help you keep on track; full-colour and archive photographs of all the sights along the way; detailed listings of accommodation, places to eat and drink and local bike shops and advice on how to prepare yourself and your bike for the trip.

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Book SynopsisNow in a fully updated 4th editionfor 2024, Brompton Bicycle tells the fascinating story behind one of theworld's most unusual and popular folding bikes.

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Book SynopsisThe legendary disgraced cyclist Bjarne Riis bares his notoriously private soul.

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Book SynopsisSex, Lies and Handlebar Tape is the astonishing biography of French cycling star Jacques Anquetil. For the first time since his death in 1987, it reveals the extraordinary truth behind the legend, the man and the cyclist.His list of 'firsts' alone makes him worthy of a place in the cycling pantheon: the first man to win the Tour de France five times; the first man to win all three grand tours - the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España; and the first man to win both the Tour and Vuelta in the same year.However, the extraordinary life of Anquetil does not stop at his achievements on a bike. He candidly admitted to using drugs, offended legions of fans by confessing that his only motivation for riding was financial and infamously indulged his enthusiasm for the high life. He also seduced and married his doctor's wife, had a child with her daughter and then sustained a ménage à trois with both wife and stepdaughter under the same roof for 12 years. When this 'family' eventually imploded, he attempted to inspire jealousy in his former lovers by having a child with his stepson's ex-wife.Containing exclusive contributions from Anquetil's family, friends, teammates and rivals, Sex, Lies and Handlebar Tape untangles myth from reality and confirms that fact is definitely stranger than fiction.Trade ReviewAn extraordinary biography * The Times Magazine *Paul Howard has not allowed Anquetil's astonishing love life to overwhelm his equally extraordinary career . . . an impeccably researched book (Book of the Week) * Independent on Sunday *An excellent work * Daily Telegraph *A stunning story * Shortlist *

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Book SynopsisHow would any of us feel if we could meet our teenage selves, a ghost on the road? Everything Passes, Everything Remains is a confluence of journeys, made by Chris Dolan, his friends, and writers before him. It’s a bit about cycling, a bit about walking, and a bit about buses. It’s a kind of travelogue, over time, and through some lesser-known parts of Spain. It’s an obsession with Spain’s writers and its history, from the Inquisition to the Civil War to the questions it faces as a country today. What makes a nation, or a family for that matter, or a group of friends? In many ways it’s as much about Dolan’s native Scotland as Spain. But mostly, it’s about the highs and lows of growing up and growing older – how the past plays merry hell with the present. About friendship, loss, music, memory, and the demons that follow us as we try to make sense of our history and our place in the world.Trade Review"The warmth of friendship and wanderlust of retirement, making good on decades of dreaming – Everything Passes, Everything Remains is brilliantly relatable, a personal journey shared candidly, painting a vivid picture of Spain with self-deprecating Scottish humour." Mark Beaumont; "Magical. A story for our times and what it is to be alive now.’ Elaine C Smith; "Everything Passes, Everything Remains is the multi-talented Dolan’s 'My Back Pages': a rich, evocative ramble through Spain, history and memory. It’s a constant delight." Graeme Macrae Burnet; "A treat from start to finish… To those who love life, read this book." David Hayman; “You can be gallus enough to busk across Spain but your demons and weaknesses still come with you … Chris Dolan celebrates the power of cycling to link his friendships, music and the Iberian ways of life.” Alan Brown;“A life remembered, a past revisited, proof of the healing power of friendship… thoughtful, hopeful and beautifully written." Colin Blane, cyclist and former BBC Europe Correspondent

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Book SynopsisAcross the UK, into Europe and further afield, these are the training rides, races and journeys closest to his heart. From one-day classics in the Peak District and Snowdonia to the rolling roads of Tuscany and the wide-open vistas of New Zealand's South Island, these are the routes you'll want to ride alongside Britain's favourite cycling superstar.We ride out with him from his winter home in the south of France, and around his old Tuscan training base as a GB Olympic hopeful at the very start of his career. We take in the valley roads of the Tour de Suisse (overall winner, 2022), and the sinuous coastal roads of Milan - San Remo.We go long in Mallorca and bounce along the short cobbled secteurs of Belgium; we take in the vineyards around Adelaide and the bright blue skies of southern California.And we have guest rides too: from world champion Remco Evenepoel and his favourite winter training ride in Calpe, Spain; around Yorkshire, with Olympic mountain bike champion, world cyclo-cross champion and newly crowned winner of Strade Bianche, Tom Pidcock; in the wilds of western Ireland from champion sprinter Sam Bennett.Twenty rides, twenty adventures you'll never forget. All of this in a small-size hardback that can slide just as easily into your hand luggage as the back pocket of your jersey.

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Book Synopsis''Byrne comes across like a post-punk Michael Palin.'' Sephen Dalton, The Times''An engaging book; part-diary, part-manifesto.'' ObserverDavid Byrne, co-founder of the group Talking Heads, has been riding a bicycle as his principal means of transportation since the 1980''s. When he tours, Byrne travels with a folding bicycle, bringing it to cities like London, Berlin, Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Manila, New York, Detroit and San Francisco. The view from his bike seat has given Byrne a panoramic window on urban life all over the world. An enchanting celebration of bike riding and of the rewards of seeing the world at bike level, this book gives the reader an incredible insight into what Byrne is seeing and thinking as he pedals around these cities.

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Book SynopsisAn hilarious tale about an epic event, written from a unique perspective. To be able to appreciate the story, the reader needs to be young at heart, have a vivid imagination and a love for adventure. If that sounds like you, join the writer on his journey, and experience his daily ups and downs with him. The Tour Aotearoa is a mountain bike ‘brevet’ (a timed, long-distance cycling event) covering the length of New Zealand. It starts at the most northern point of the North Island, Cape Reinga, and finishes at Stirling Point, just south of Bluff at the bottom of the South Island. The Tour is held biennially and requires participants to follow a set route covering 3,000 km which consists of existing mountain bike trails scattered throughout the country and connected by back country roads. The Tour is unsupported, so participants carry their own gear. To be awarded the brevet, the riders need to cover the full distance within 30 days. The writer took part in the 2018 edition of the Tour. His experience was different from what he expected. He encountered all types of challenges, from getting lost to physical ailments, serious weather events and loneliness. In between he had plenty of time to contemplate and let his thoughts and imagination run free. It helped him pass the time. He was seen late at night, furiously hammering away on his laptop, regardless of how tired he was, reliving the events and contemplations of the day. It helped him make sense of his journey and how it fitted into the complex world we live in. He called it his ‘administration’.

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Book SynopsisSimon Warren's 100 Greatest Cycling Climbs of the Tour de France is the ultimate cyclist's guide to the iconic climbs of Le Tour. This second edition is fully updated for 2024.

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Book SynopsisGravel Rides South West England by Katherine Moore features 24 cycling routes, ranging from 16 to 180 kilometres, showcasing the extensive gravel trails of the West Country.

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Book SynopsisGreat British Bike Rides is a celebration of British road cycling.Author Dave Barter brings together 40 of the best road rides in England, Scotland and Wales, searching out the country's most celebrated routes, toughest climbs and most scenic roads.The rides are challenging, they are adventurous, and they are quintessentially British – tackle the classic Fred Whitton in the English Lake District; pit yourself against fearsome climbs inspired by the Dragon Ride in Wales; and feast upon Scotland's stunning scenery following wild roads through Assynt and across Skye.Already a fanatical cyclist, author Dave Barter packed in his job and hit the road, embarking on a 9000-mile tour of Britain to bring together the best riding the country has to offer. His cycle routes are devised specifically for this book, enchaining unforgettable climbs, quiet roads and stunning scenery.Each ride is accompanied by detailed route information, bespoke mapping and a statistical breakdown including every detail the committed cyclist requires. The book is complemented with a set of downloadable GPX files to further aid navigation.Join the cycling revolution and discover the best road cycling in Great Britain.Trade Review'A well thought out and presented guide to some of the best cycle routes in the UK.' – road.ccTable of ContentsPreface Introduction Acknowledgements Riding a Great British bike ride Making your own Great British bike ride How to use this guide The Dashboard Key SOUTHERN ENGLAND Cornwall Dartmoor Exmoor Cheddar & the Flatlands Wiltshire’s White Horses Dorset New Forest Isle of Wight Surrey Hills & Richmond Park Ashdown Forest Chilterns The Captain’s Cotswolds Lanes NORTHERN ENGLAND Telford, the Wrekin & Long Mynd Rutland & the Lake Norfolk Lincolnshire Wolds Cheshire Highlights Tour of the Peak District West Yorkshire Lancashire – Bowland Beast North York Moors Lake District Passes The North Pennines WALES Homage to the Dragon Ride The Gower Peninsula Pembrokeshire Brecon Beacons & the Black Mountains Elan Valley – Rhayader Llangollen & Denbigh Snowdonia SCOTLAND Scottish Borders Glentrool & Ayrshire Glen Finart & Loch Fyne Isle of Mull Circuit of Loch Rannoch Aviemore & Cairn Gorm Loch Ness Isle of Skye Applecross & Torridon Lochinver & Assynt Great British Bike Rides – Vital Statistics

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Book SynopsisWith a foreword by Eddy MerckxThe world of professional cycling is fraught with fierce competition, fervent dedication and unerring ambition, and only a handful of competitors reach iconic status. Among them is Sir Bradley Wiggins a man uniquely placed to reflect on the history of this remarkable sport and its unforgettable titans.In Icons, Wiggins takes the reader on an extraordinarily intimate journey through the sport, presenting key pieces from his never-before-seen collection of memorabilia. Over the course of his illustrious career, he amassed hundreds of items often gifts from its greatest and most controversial figures. Each reflects an icon, a race or a moment that fundamentally influenced Wiggins on both a personal and professional level.By exploring the lives and achievements of 21 of the sport's key figures among them Fausto Coppi, Jacques Anquetil, Miguel Induráin and Tom Simpson Wiggins sheds new light on what professional cycling demands of its best competitors. IconTrade Review‘If, like me, you’re a fan of cycling, you must have this book… Bradley’s collection of iconic jerseys is breath-taking and includes the 1949 yellow jersey of a personal hero of mine Fausto Coppi.’ – Paul Smith ‘Rather beautiful and an intriguing blend of cycling history and personal snippets.’ – The Guardian ‘An intriguing blend of historical research, fanboy memoir and candid confession’.’ – Cyclist ‘If you ever wanted to know about the events and people that influenced Bradley Wiggins' early cycling career and led to his love of the sport, then Icons is the book for you.’ – Road.cc

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Book SynopsisCharly Wegelius was one of Britain's most distinguished and respected professional cyclists. He grew up in York, and went on to race for some of cycling's best teams, including Mapei, the world's most successful ever team. In his 11-year career he competed in a remarkable 14 Grand Tours (including three Tours de France). Charly now works as a directear sportif for the Garmin-Sharp team.Co-writer Tom Southam is a former professional racing cyclist. He raced alongside Charly Wegelius for three years in the Italian professional peleton, and twice rode the professional Roac Race Championships as a teamate of Wegelius. He now works as a writer and contributes to major cycling publications in the UK and internationally.Trade ReviewIf justice is alive and well in the world, this will be the sports book of the year 2013... a book that is well nigh impossible to put back on the shelf at the end of each chapter. * The Washing Machine Post.net *Interesting and revealing... the most accurate description of what being a highly-regarded domestique in the modern peloton is really like' * Cycling Weekly *One of the hardest working domestiques in the sport * Cycling Weekly *Couldn't put it down…the best insight into the peloton since Paul Kimmage’s Rough Ride -- William FotheringhamA must read. Absolutely outstanding -- Paul Kimmage

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Book SynopsisHow to enjoy New Zealand's cycle trail network, by a writer who knows them like the back of his hand. How to enjoy New Zealand's cycle trail network, by a writer who knows them like the back of his hand. Nga Haerenga - the New Zealand Cycle Trails - began as a vision to inspire people to experience New Zealand's great outdoors by bike. This book is stuffed full of useful information on the different trails - how to get there, what you will see, level of difficulty, things to take, places to eat and places to stay. There is fascinating background information on each area - its history and the local flora and fauna - as well as on the ride itself. This new edition covers several new sections of the trails, and provides updates on any on-going construction work. There is also a highly practical section full of advice on choosing the right bike, gear to take, cell phone coverage in the different areas, weather and the best times of year for each trail, environmental care and useful

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Book SynopsisVoted the most popular Italian sportsman of the twentieth century, Fausto Angelo Coppi was the campionissimo - champion of champions. The greatest cyclist of the immediate post-war years, he was the first man to win cycling''s great double, the Tour de France and Tour of Italy in the same year - and he did it twice. He achieved mythical status for his crushing solo victories, world titles and world records. But his significance extends far beyond his sport. Coppi''s scandalous divorce and controversial early death convulsed a conservative, staunchly Roman Catholic Italy in the 1950s. At a time when adultery was still illegal, Coppi and his lover were dragged from their bed in the middle of the night, excommunicated and forced to face a clamorous legal battle. The ramifications of this case are still being felt today.In Fallen Angel, acclaimed cycling biographer, William Fotheringham, tells the tragic story of Coppi''s life and death - of how a man who bTrade ReviewSympathetic and perceptive. Times have changed but the myth lives on * Independent on Sunday *The Italian star's rivalry with Gino Bartali makes Armstrong v Contador look like a playground spat -- Tim Lewis * Observer *Admirable. Coppi's melancholy journey from poverty to superstardom is a cautionary tale of the price of fame * Financial Times *The quality of the testimony and the sources used by Fotheringham are of a remarkable breadth and depth. An excellent book * BBC Sport *Fotheringham is at his best when describing the emergence of a new national hero from a world of rubble and grinding poverty -- Richard Williams * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisDiscover the story of Britain's ultimate cyclist and his ill-fated race during the 1967 Tour de France, from the bestselling author of Half Man Half BikeTom Simpson was an Olympic medallist, world champion and the first Briton to wear the fabled yellow jersey of the Tour de France. He died a tragic early death during the 1967 Tour. A man of contradictions, Simpson was one of the first cyclists to admit to using banned drugs, and was accused of fixing races, yet the dapper ''Major Tom'' inspired awe and affection for the obsessive will to win which was ultimately to cost him his life. Put Me Back on My Bike revisits the places and people associated with Simpson to produce the definitive story of Britain''s greatest ever cyclist. The fully revised and updated edition of William Fotheringham''s classic biography features a new foreword and postscript further exploring the truth behind the legend.The best cycling biography evTrade ReviewThe best cycling biography ever written * Velo *An intelligent, perceptive portrait * Guardian *A beautiful explanation of why Simpson's legend still exerts such a powerful hold * Sunday Times *An enjoyable, clear-eyed biography * Times Literary Supplement *The definitive story of Britain’s greatest ever cyclist -- Christmas books recommendations * Cycle Sport *

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Book SynopsisBernard Hinault is one of the greatest cyclists of all time. He is a five-time winner of the Tour de France and the only man to have won each of the Grand Tours on more than one occasion. Hinault is the last old-school' champion: a larger-than-life character from a working-class background, capable of winning on all terrains, in major Tours and one-day Classics. Nicknamed the Badger' for his combative style, he led a cyclists' strike in his first Tour and instigated a legendary punch-up with demonstrators in 1982 while in the middle of a race. His battles with teammates Laurent Fignon and Greg LeMond in the 1986 Tour resulted in one of the greatest races of all time. Three decades on from his retirement, Hinault remains the last French winner of the Tour de France. Here, William Fotheringham shows that while France may one day find a new champion, there will never be another Bernard Hinault.Trade ReviewA thorough, well-researched and highly readable biography about one of cycling's best ever riders * Road *One of cycling’s most fascinating characters * Sport *

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Book SynopsisDiscover the hidden corners of southern England, London and the south-east, travelling by bicycle along its ancient network of quiet lanes. From gentle spins to weekend camping adventures, wild seashores to enchanted woodlands and midnight escapades, LOST LANES will enthrall armchair explorers and inspire dedicated cyclists and families.Table of ContentsMap of the Rides Rides at a glance In Search of Lost Lanes Tour d'horizon THE SELECTION Best for Wild Camping Best for Weekends Away Best for Gourmets Best for Ups and Downs Best for History Best for Village Life Best for Wild Swimming Best for Families Best for Pubs THE REGIONS Kent Sussex Surrey, Hampshire & the Isle of Wight Thames Valley Herts, Beds & Bucks Essex & Suffolk London Organised Rides Practicalities These Roads are Our Roads

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Book SynopsisIn this beautifully illustrated guide to travelling across France by bike you will discover hidden lanes, stunning gorges, amazing places to eat and stay, plus the best of French cycling culture. This iconic journey of more than 1000 miles takes you through some of the country's most striking landscapes.

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Book SynopsisFamily Cycle Rides in the Lake District gives families with young riders a series of expertly chosen cycle routes in the Lake District National Park in an easy-to-use pocket-book format.

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Book SynopsisOn a two-wheeled journey across Spain and Portugal, Julian Sayarer returns with his characteristically keen observations on adventure, humanity, and politics. Set against the backdrop of the pandemic, this is a travelogue about the 'in-between places', the lives of the people found there, and an old blue bicycle called Miles.

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Book Synopsis''The latest book from the inestimable and seemingly irrepressible Simon Warren.''thewashingmachinepostFrom the Gavia Pass to Mount Etna, from The Stelvio to The Zoncalan, these climbs are legends in Italy and the building blocks of the Giro d''Italia. Technology may advance, training and diet may evolve, but these world-famous mountains are a constant. They have witnessed triumph and despair, courage and heartache, they are where champions are made and where dreams are shattered. And yes, the greatest arenas of Italy''s greatest race are open 365 days of the year for any of us to ride. So take up the challenge, emulate your heroes and make your mark on the hundred greatest cycling climbs of Italy.Trade ReviewThe latest book from the inestimable and seemingly irrepressible Simon Warren. * thewashingmachinepost *

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Book SynopsisAn illustrated pocket guide to off-the-beaten-track cycling challengesReally Wild Cycling follows in the tracks of Chris''s bestselling Wild Cycling. Most, if not all, the rides are off-road, but each one presents a challenge to inspire readers to train for it and have a go. Most take only a few hours, but some are longer, and a few much longer, taking even the fittest several days. An introduction explains safety techniques and underlines the skills, knowledge, equipment and fitness levels required. The rides are graded in ascending difficulty within each region. Each ride suggests regular escape points to get riders to a safe place should the weather close in and draws attention to places where extra care should be taken. Some rides are on marked routes, like the Trans-Pennine Trail, some are races or organised challenges, while others are routes the author himself has mapped out. Each ride is illustrated with photos, an annotated map and a profile of Trade ReviewPraise for Wild Cycling:This is the perfect pocket guide to some of Britain's best off-road rides. - Cycling Weekly

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Book Synopsis'This is Dan Martin's long-awaited autobiography, full of 'the warmth, sharp insights and vivid colour of his 14-year career' GuardianKnown, thanks to his racing style and attitude, for being one of road cycling's last romantics, Dan has always shied away from revealing too much about himself and his story. Now, having retired at the end of the 2021 season aged 35 and no longer bound by the constraints of the racing circuit, Dan feels the time is right to tell his story in the same forthright and honest manner that he rode his bike.This book reflects Dan's generous and outspoken spirit, his resilience to pain, crashes, bad luck and, finally, his acceptance of destiny. Each chapter's title has a sub-title based on a typical cyclist's fear: the fear of losing a race, the fear of retiring from the sport, the fear of mountains or downhills, the fear of doping and, ultimately, the fear of death. Dan also discusses every aspect of the professional cyclist's life - food, discipline, money, dreams, friendship and betrayal. Dan is unashamed when it comes to exposing these dark feelings, his weaknesses and how he tried to deal with them, his attitude exemplifying Mark Twain's quote: 'Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear'.Written with his long-time friend and best-selling author Pierre Carrey, this is the story of a rider who never sought to conform to modern cycling's norms and someone who, in many ways, embodies an age in cycling which has long since disappeared.This is the celebration of a true cyclist's career, which will appeal to anyone who's embraced the weekend ride whilst dreaming of the mountains.'[Chased by Pandas] is not a conventional study of wins, losses and conquering mountains but overcoming the mental challenges of a sport into which he was seemingly born' The Times'Records the brave and tough journey of 'one of road cycling's last romantics' Irish Independent 'Chronicles the former Irish road champion's journey through the ranks of professional cycling' Cycling WeeklyTrade Review[Chased by Pandas] is not a conventional study of wins, losses and conquering mountains but overcoming the mental challenges of a sport into which he was seemingly born * The Times *Records the brave and tough journey of one of road cycling's last romantics * Irish Independent *Chronicles the former Irish road champion's journey through the ranks of professional cycling * Cycling Weekly *Full of the warmth, sharp insights and vivid colour of his 14-year career * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisFrame by glorious frame, this beautiful graphic novel captures the essence of the Tour de France – the grit and the glory. Since Maurice Garin's inugural victory in 1903, hundreds of thousands of kilometers have been covered in pursuit of the yellow jersey and few of them have been without incident or drama. Here are the Tour's legends: Eugene Christophe welding his bicycle back together at the foot of the Pyrenees in 1913; Bartali V Coppi, 1949; Poulidor shoulder-to-shoulder with Anquetil on the Puy de Dome, 1964; Tommy Simpson's death on Ventoux, 1967; Lance Armstrong's domination and disgrace; finishing with Bradley Wiggins' and Chris Froome's victories back-to-back victories for Britain in 2012 and 2013. 'Oh what a fantastic book this is. Not only is it a wonderfully concise history of the Tour, it is quite ravishing to behold. I adored it.' Observer.Trade ReviewIf you're a cycling fan it is a unique and illuminating ride * Sport *Takes in all the major incidents from Garin's win in 1903 to Froome in 2013 * Shortlist *This exquisite comic book will convert you overnight to the cause of the yellow jersey... a cycling equivalent of Chariots of Fire... Not only is it a wonderfully concise history of the Tour, its competitors' stoicism and skullduggery displayed to compelling effect, it is quite ravishing to behold. I adored it' * Observer *Cleijne reinvents the history of the Tour de France as a graphic novel. It brilliantly, often darkly conveys the highs and lows of the greatest sporting event in the world * Independent, Books of the Year *A book so gorgeous, it deserves to be put on display as it were an illuminated manuscript * Observer, Books of the Year *Quite unlike any other history of the Tour de France, and all the better for it * ride.cc *

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Book SynopsisGuidebook to the Fred Whitton Challenge ride (179km/112 miles over 7 iconic passes) and an alternative 5-day tour of the Lake District, plus 15 tough day rides from Keswick, Ambleside, Penrith and bases to the southwest and southeast of the National Park, taking in the best of the area's road cycling.

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Book SynopsisGuide to 12 of the best gravel bikepacking routes in the South and East, including the Cantii Way, exploring forest tracks, bridleways and quiet lanes over 1 to 4 days. The cycle routes are suitable for beginner and experienced MTB and gravel-bike riders, are easily accessed by public transport, and are well served for accommodation and facilities.

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Book SynopsisHe's ridden for World Tour teams for ten years. He's achieved top ten finishes in Grand Tours. But who is The Secret Cyclist and why all the secrecy?"Every public aspect of our lives is so tightly controlled that being truly honest is all but impossible in a newspaper interview, never mind a whole book. You try write a warts-and-all blog about your office. Question how the business is run, make sure you remember to call your boss a moron, and then tell me how it goes."What do the riders really make of Team Sky? How does the pay structure work? Why should you never trust a kit endorsement from a professional? Is doping still an issue? The Secret Cyclist tackles the big questions head-on, revealing a side to cycling that fans have never seen before.

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Book Synopsis Sprinters and the Art of Speed invites you into the world of professional cycling through the eyes of some of the best sprinters of all time.From the earliest days of road racing there have been explosive riders that always seemed to have the edge over their rivals at the finish. From the days of Charles Pélissier and Rik van Looy, to the epic era of Mark Cavendish and the rise of new stars like Lorena Wiebes and Arnaud De Lie, you''ll get the low-down on all things sprinting.Inside you''ll discover exactly what it takes to become one of the fastest riders at the Tour de France. Dive in and learn about the formative years of sprinting and the emergence of specialised tactics such as sprint trains and lead-out riders. You''ll also get an insight into the lives of some of the greatest sprinters of all time and their finest hours, before finally looking ahead to what the next decade of sprinting might hold.

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Book SynopsisThe Official History of the Tour de France – fully revised and updated for 2023 – is a celebration of one of the greatest annual sporting events, and the premier competition in world cycling.Through more than 300 photographs, rarely seen documents and items of memorabilia, this book covers more than a century of fascinating stories about the Tour and its iconic yellow jersey.This revised and updated edition includes an authoritative narrative account of each major era, up to and including the thrilling 2022 Tour. There are features on superstar cyclists and memorable moments from each period of the event's rich history, plus a foreword from legendary Tour de France champion Bernard Hinault. This is the definitive illustrated book on the Tour.Table of ContentsForeword by Bernard Hinault • Part 1: Early History • Part 2: Golden Era • Part 3: Modern Times • Part 4: Winners and Champions • Part 5: Customs and Traditions • Records and Statistics.

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Book SynopsisMeet Gary Fisher. The maverick kid bike racer who cycled straight into the Acid Test scene and lit up the Grateful Dead gigs, the relentless tinkerer who transformed an industry and sold mountain biking to the world and the visionary who's still working flat-out every day to prove that bikes are the answer to a healthier, happier future for everyone. A collaboration with cycling writer Guy Kesteven, Being Gary Fisher and the Bicycle Revolution is an autobiography of sorts. It's also a mind-blowing trip of ingenious innovation, dogged determination and boundless energy. Get caught up in Gary's crazy tales and his lifelong mission to invite everyone to the greatest dance on earth.

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Book SynopsisBonjour - Is This Italy? offers a unique and often hilarious insight into the challenges and excitement afforded by a lone motorcycle journey though Europe. In his quest to escape the frantic nature of London life, Kevin Turner heads south across France, crossing the Alps into Italy, and onto Rome, before returning via Germany – and the treacherous Nürburgring. Throughout, the author provides valuable advice to those considering a similar journey, noting the best and most scenic routes, where to stay, and what to see. This is interspersed with a raft of comic anecdotes that demonstrate exactly what NOT to do when lost on a motorbike in Europe.

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Book SynopsisFor those new to BMX racing or improving their racing performance, BMX Racing, provides a practical and comprehensive resource for this exciting sport. It guides the reader through all stages and levels of racing, from beginner and club to professional level. Topics covered include: clothing and equipment for safe riding; choosing your first BMX bike; understanding the BMX track; getting started in racing and competition structure through the national, international and Olympic levels. Finally, there is practical instruction on techniques including balance, accelerating, cornering and jumping.

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Book SynopsisNutrition for Cyclists is essential reading for all keen riders who want to learn about what, when and how much to eat and drink to improve their performance. This practical book shows cyclists how to design the right diet that will allow them to incorporate a rigorous training regime into a busy lifestyle. With over 30 years' experience of working with sportsmen and women at the highest levels, Jane Griffin explains the background science behind her dietary advice and addresses the day-to-day concerns of today's two-wheeled enthusiasts. Topics include: the energy requirements of the cyclist; effective meal planning for training and competition; how to stay hydrated and how to rehydrate efficiently; eating to aid recovery from illness or injury; supplements and Ergogenic Aids; how to lose weight and maintain performance and finally, special advice for younger, older, female and vegetarian cyclists.Trade Review"Diet and nutrition are as key a part of cycling as the pedals or chain." -- Nigel Mitchell, Head of Nutrition British Cycling/Team Sky

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Book SynopsisSouth Leinster has a surprising variety of terrain, boasting canals, blanket bogs, rolling woodlands, golden beaches and brilliant green pastures interspersed with fields of golden barley. Quiet roads with excellent surfaces make this beautiful corner of Ireland perfect for exploring by bike, with some great climbs and descents, notably in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, adding exciting challenges. A journey through this picturesque countryside is also a trip through the ages, with many historical places of interest along the way. Break your journey with pit stops at round towers, restored mansions with attractive gardens like Emo Court, traditional lighthouses such as Hook Lighthouse, or the graves of great Irish figures like Shackleton and Wolfe Tone.The graded routes suit all abilities, and are each illustrated with a colour map, photos, a gradient graph, and key facts and statistics. Information is also provided on the many natural landmarks and historical sites en route. Each trip guarantees a terrific day out for the curious cyclist.

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