Cycling Books

This is an entertaining book written with a light, humorous touch. "Berkshires" is synonymous with "mountains" for most people, but in fact, the valley widens out in southern Massachusetts, and its floor is flat to rolling. Highlights of the book are its directions to swimming holes, and the guided tour of the scenes described in Arlo Guthrie's famous anti-Vietnam-war song "Alice's Restaurant".

This is one of the most up to date bicycle repair manuals that I have seen. Includes sections on selecting a bike, necessary tools, quick fixes, advanced repairs and maintenance, and bike extras. All information is given in easy to understand language (there's even a glossary for those of us who want to learn the latest cycling jargon). What stands out most, however, are the full-color photos and illustrations. This book is not only useful, but fun to look at. The Bike Book is definitely the best value in a bicycle repair and maintenance manual that can be found anywhere.

Paul Salter has done a great job in putting this book together. The only reason someone will be disappointed with it is because the person will not have read the title carefully before buying it. It is essentially a guide for Land's End to John O'Groats riders (End-to-End) and not a book about cycling every popular route in Britain. The book has information on everything that a person could ask for. It takes the cyclists through 22 destinations (including Land's End and John O'Groats) and for each, Paul has listed down campsites, B&Bs, Hostels and bike shops. The routes and distances between destinations are clearly marked on very detailed maps, and the altitude profile of each leg is provided with names of villages/towns clearly marked along the profile. He provides a rich commentary of the sites to see along each leg of the trip and also a short history of Britain. This makes it an interesting read. The book has a detailed section on preparing for the trip and other essential information about getting ready to ride in Britain. A must buy!!!

Bike! is such a dynamic, well-written and well designed introduction to the biking world that I've given it as a present to several of my friends, both new and experienced riders.

I purchased this book and also the Bicycle Builder's Bonanza by the same author because I wanted ideas on how to build my own recumbent bike or trike. The plans and details are awesome, and Brad often explains why certain design decisions were made. I think the best thing about the book is that it inspires me to go out and build something. My mind is already cranking on how to modify the designs presented in the book. Now, my only problem is deciding between the Delta Wolf and the Street Fox!

Mr Ramey has done a very nice job of collecting and describing mountian trails in Rabun County, Georgia. His opening remarks about Rabun being one of GOD's masterpieces is so true. Books like this are more often reference-type book, but Mr. Ramey's book is a readable treatise.

Allen Johnson has done it again. He continues to entertain as well as educate the young and the old with his "Adventures with Grandchildren" series. This time, we are peddling across the heartland of the USA, covering 4 states and 600 unsupported miles, with Allen and 2 of his pre-teen grandchildren. Along the journey we encounter exotic-named cities and the simplistic, interesting folk who live there. History is reborn as we discover a natural rock bridge, visit a log cabin, and sleep in a monastery. Allen weaves a magical, yet authentic tale of present-age family adventures that all can enjoy reading as well as dream about accomplishing. He shows us that each of us can select a fantasy journey and, more importantly, make it happen!!

An "indispensable book for bikers, hikers, walkers, joggers and families who want to enjoy Missouri's trails." Shawn E. Richardson's book Biking Missouri's Rail-Trails follows an identical format to Shawn E. Richardson's other two books Biking Ohio's Rail-Trails and Biking Wisconsin's Rail-Trails. This colorful paperback book includes detailed maps, photos, and a description to each trail. Trail lengths range from 1 mile to 235 miles and include information about trail surface (smooth crushed limestone, asphalt), trail use (biking, roller blading, horses, wheelchair, hiking), parking, and points of interest. Shawn E. Richardson provides informaion about the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and their involvement with Missouri's Rail-Trails. If you live in Missouri, or plan to visit Missouri, this book is a must for any cyclist!

There are 17 well planned tours including everything from routes to accommodations to map references. I have used this book for two tours, one in France and one in Germany. My only complaint is that the accommodations tend to be a little on the basic side. I would have preferred some more upscale options.

My wife & I used this guidebook on a very casual bike trip to Nova Scotia a few years ago. It combines very readable and enjoyable commentary by the author along with faily decent maps and excellent ride suggestions. I only wish that more guidebook author's would follow Mr. Thompson's format. In summary - it's the only guidebook I've ever read cover to cover! Highly recommended !!