Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Lots of guides
This is an excellent product for those who like to discover new routes (and drive to get there).I am a beginner cyclist so, I was able to find a couple good routes near my house.

Not great but not expensive
It's ok.Too many of the "rides" are "star home tours" or bike paths that are pretty obvious (like Santa Monica bike path) and could be found online.Also, a substantial number of the rides are on surface streets within dense parts of Los Angeles ("sights of downtown", "Hollywood landmarks").It lists Santa Fe Dam but neglects to mention how dangerously hot it can be for part of the year and only gives a passing "isn't known for its crystal clear air" instead of mentioning it as a serious potential health hazard.

I also find it irresponsible that they list the Rose Bowl ride with no mention of the charged atmosphere surrounding it on the weekends (and conflicts with law enforcement).Ditto for Mandeville Canyon.I'd certainly want to know these things if I weren't an experienced Los Angeles rider.It seems more important than pages of addresses (mostly ex-addresses) of stars. ... Read more

Product Description
Leave the inner city for biking the nearby country roads and lanes in the New York tristate area.

When people think about New York City, very often the image that's conjured up is of a vast metropolitan and polluted environment, with traffic for miles, and suburban bedroom communities that sprawl in all directions. However, author Gerry Brooks has taken a closer look and discovered the many delightful quiet country roads and lanes that can be reached in 90 minutes to, at most, less than two hours from NYC. From the Connecticut shoreline to the riverbanks of Bucks County along the Delaware River, these 25 cycling tours in the tristate area can easily provide exercise and relaxation for the hurried urbanites/suburbanites of Philadelphia and the 12 million others in the NYC region.

Although not all of the tours chosen for this guide are flat, the name "Cycling for Softies" could be also be given to this compilation of 1-day trips in the New York tristate area. Whether you choose to enjoy riding solo, with friends, or as a family activity, this complete guide will give you all the information you need to make your each day tour unique.

Features include:

• historical background to accompany each tour
• tour ratings from "easy" to "more difficult" terrain
• gear preparation
• road safety (in this land of many roads)
• directions so that a route can be extended

Customer Reviews (1)

Good, practical, useful book
I am a veteran of Gerry Brooks' cycling tours in NYC, and was saddened to learn that he's no longer running them on a scheduled basis.So I was really pleased to see this book, which contains the routes, driving directions and other key information relating to the Brooks Country Cycling Daytrips.The trips are fun, varied, pretty, and the routes are designed for quiet and safe cycling. They are designed for casual cyclists who want to enjoy the outdoors and have some fun.The option legs do cater to the more fitness-oriented among the crowd, too.The only quarrel I have with the book is that the drive time estimates seem either very optimistic, or Gerry drives with a lead foot.I would generally say that the drive times are 15-45 minutes longer than stated in the book. But otherwise, I recommend it wholeheartedly. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Only one ride
I was expecting this to contain descriptions of several rides. Instead it is more of a travelogue describing the things you'll see along a single route - following 101 from Astoria to brookings ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Interesting
Not long ago I decided I wanted to read about the history of bicycles. I know, you see them everywhere, but do you know where they came from? This interesting book was published in 1977, and as such is a little out of date. But, that said, it is a very interesting read.

The book begins with a history of bicycles and bicycle racing, from the velocipedes in the early nineteenth century, through the penny farthings (those odd bikes with a huge front wheel and a tiny rear one), and on to the present. After that, the book goes on to discuss the many styles of bikes, gives information on bicycling and bike racing. Along the way the reader is treated to many color and black-and-white pictures.

Overall, I found this to be a very interesting book. The history part is really great, but the rest of it, being so out-of-date is probably only of interest to hard-core bicycle enthusiasts or collectors. If you are looking for a history of bicycles, especially bicycle racing, then this is a good book to get. I just wouldn't recommend paying too much for it. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (14)

Road rash is your friend
This is a must read by anyone with an interest in cycling.It is especially helpful for adults new to cycling again, possibly in a new environment.The original title :art of urban cycling" still hold true.But it is not just for a new cyclist, I have over 100K in the saddle and still reference it regularly.This latest purchase was for 5 more copies, I continuously give the as gift.If you like this at all, Hurst also wrote the cyclist's manifesto.It has a bit more history in it.Happy Trails

A good intro for big city cyclists, but by no means comprehensive
I want to start my review by saying that I cycle about 3000-4000 miles a year, mostly commuting and a little touring, and most of this in a city of about 50,000 people in Indiana, and in outlying rural areas and small towns. (I live about 5 or 6 miles from the city, in the country).

The original title that this book was published under, The Art of Urban Cycling, should probably have been kept, as I originally thought that this book was going to be an overview of all kinds of cycling. However, Hurst is writing primarily for people who are going to be cycling in a large city (by "urban," Hurst seems to mean a city that is large enough to have several interstates and other limited access roads going through it, a "downtown" district with skyscrapers, and outlying suburbs). Hurst's comments about urban development, and the influences that transportation developments (such as streetcars, trains, and automobiles) had on expanding these cities, but this analysis does not really go into detail as to how exactly this development affected smaller cities and towns.

Hurst's style is somewhat humorous and whimsical. In spite of his use of mild profanity in the book, he does provide a reasonable, intelligent analysis of the history of cycling, urban riding basics, safety, pollution, and a basic introduction to maintainance and bike types. Hurst delves little into topics that would be relevant to persons such as myself who commute through outlying rural areas, for example, route selection of adequate country roads, dealing with those cars that appear out of nowhere over rural hilltops, etc.

In fact, Hurst seems to insinuate that commuting on a highway is very dangerous and a bad idea. However, there are many areas in the country where the only paved roads available to rural commuters are state and federal highways; this is true, for example, in the Flint Hills of Kansas. Where I live in Indiana, pedalling at least a few miles on the highway is unavoidable if I want to go to my own house, or visit my parents or grandparents.

Much of Hurst's book is geared toward his own experience and background, which includes various aspects of track racing (such as the track stand, which I still think is ridiculous) and an interesting discussion about why bicycle couriers use fixed speed bicycles. I was disappointed that this book didn't speak much about touring (which happens to be my cup of tea), but I guess one book can't cover everything. Much of his advice seems to be geared toward people who will be doing short commutes of 10 miles or less through a city; his suggestion, for example, that panners have fallen out of favor and backpacks are "in," seems to assume that commutes will be short; as anyone who has ever commuted or toured a good distance with a backback knows, the thing tends to push certain parts of your anatomy down onto the saddle, causing much discomfort.

Hurst does not seem to be part of the "anti-motorist" crowd, which antagonizes motorists and clings to the cyclist subculture. However, he (and other cyclists) don't realize that cycle commuting will never be practicable for everyone; many people, for example, live 20 miles from work, have an extremely busy schedule which makes time for exercise difficult, have to take 3 children with them everywhere they go, suffer from COPD or heart failure and can barely exercise, or have to show up to work in a spiffy business suit with shoes. Although I would like for cycle commuting to be accessible to everyone, the fact remains that automobiles are the only mode of transportation that some people will be able to use on a regular basis; automobiles are not necessarily bad, although we as a society could definitely do much to lessen our independence on them.

The discussion about urban pollution and how horrible it supposedly is makes me wonder where the world Mr. Hurst lives; I won't say the air in Indiana is super clean, but I've never suffered any apparent ill effects from it (though long term effects remain to be seen). Wait, I've got a solution to dealing with the urban pollution; MOVE OUT TO THE COUNTRY. (HAHA).

If you do most of your cycling in a small town or through the country, you may not find this book to be very useful.

Good book, would be better in paper format
I bought this on the recommendation of some buddies on [...]. I thought I'd be tricky & buy it for Kindle, so I can easily take it with me and read it on the train to work.

Unfortunately, this is one of those books that would be better in a dead tree book. For one thing, he makes footnotes whenever he quotes something. These notes are sometimes quite detailed, and the references go to a special part in the back of the book. Flipping back & forth is not convenient on a Kindle. The other thing is that some images are mingled into a picture, and the font is tiny & hard to read. If you have a Kindle DX, it is no big deal. On a Kindle or Kindle 2, it is TINY. You'd better have 20/20 vision if you're going to read those parts.

There is some solid survival tips for cyclists here. It is 90% applicable toward urban cycling; only one tiny chapter on suburban cycling. Also, the author continually repeats that when a cyclist gets hit, it is his own fault for not being alert enough. To some extent, this is true. But to put all the blame on the cyclist every time? Get real, Robert. We can't realistically slow down at every green light to make sure no one's going to blow it. We can't anticipate when someone is going to left turn in front of us when we're going 20+ mph.

Aside from these points, it is a great book. No regrets buying, I just wish I'd bought it paper format instead.

Entertaining reading for the suburban rider, too!
I find the content of this book to be very entertaining, and eye opening as I am a suburban/rural rider, not an urban cyclist.

The organization also allows for me to review and follow other's comments on particular sections. So I've read ahead based on reviews at times.

All in all a fascinating book for the active cyclist. The only omission is one often overlooked by bicyclists: growth in the electric assist cycling. Not as an intrusion to purists who bike without auxiliary power, but as a practical extension for the many who would otherwise NEVER take their bikes beyond a few miles from home! This is not an area covered by motorcyclists or their "biker" books or mags either.

The worst book on cycling ever. Really? Really.
Okay, I love cycling. I average between 60 to 100 miles a week. I don't race. I don't train. I ride mostly in the Los Angeles area. I go to the doctor, the store, the post office. meetings. I am an urban cyclist. And when I talk to my fellow drivers, many tell me how much they would love to get on a bike, but with the traffic they are just too afraid. Robert Hurst, author of "The Art of Cycling" likes that these people are too afraid to cycle. He wants you to be too afraid to cycle. There is nary more than a passing mention of the joy of cycling in here. What Robert wants to tell everyone is that cycling is dangerous, deadly and that you will get hurt, badly, and that if you do, you are lucky. I'm not joking. It is all disguised within the book, because Robert first gives us a nice potted history of cycling, motoring and urban growth patterns in the 20th century. Then he gives his "invocation," where he says it is our duty to show others how "easy it is" to ride in the city. Then he states, "Ride with fear and joy." What follows for the next 200-plus pages is a whole lot of fear. He starts by telling us that our streets are really not suitable for riding, that we have bad pavement, potholes, cracks, seams and waves. His advice: find a route, memorize it, and don't vary from it because if you do, you are taking your life in your hands. Scared yet? Oh, it gets better. Next, Hurst wants to tell you how to ride your bike in the city. His first pronouncement is that if you ride with the traffic laws, you can expect "a few trips to the MRI room." Great! What rules are we supposed to follow? Hard to say. Maybe blow through Stop signs (a common activity for cyclists at empty 4-ways), but mostly, he implores riders to just ride scared. No driver is predictable. And if they hit you, it is probably your fault. He announces that you will get "doored" (have a car door open into you as you ride). You will get hit. You will be injured. A lot of his ultimate advice is basic city cycling technique, but it is buried under a mountain of fear-mongering. Slowly, part of Hurst's problems come into focus. The later you get into the book, you get a better idea of the chip on his shoulder. He rants against "strict" vehicular cycling (a term I didn't really know before reading this book)--that is cycling as traffic in the middle of the lane, stop at ever sign, signal like a car without blinkers. I have no stake in with the vehicular cyclists. But Hurst also begins poking at the notion that cyclists should be visible to drivers. He argues that you can't count on visibility with reflective vests, lights, etc. And here is where things really go off the rails. You can literally see where either the publisher or someone said, "Robert, old boy, you can't go around recommending that people cycle at night, in the city, with no lights on their bikes." But, in fact he does. "Riding at night without lights is not only possible, it can also be a very instructive drill." Oh! One might learn a great deal by performing brain surgery on yourself, too! He decries "the alter of Visibility". Mr, Hurst, cars hit things they don't see. Ride to be seen. Light up your bike and body at night. Riding without lights is not a good idea for anyone. Of course, at the end of his ode to light-less riding, he states that he was only speaking theoretically and "the author must insist" on proper lighting. I think by "author" he means "the publisher" or "the editor". He goes on to detail the dangers of riding with fellow cyclists ("highly experienced cyclists," he snobbishly states, "will express a preference for riding alone.") Then comes Chapter 4. This chapter is all about bicycle injury stats! Ready to ride now? Maybe you should know that "Clearly the pain and danger of cycling has been underrepresented in many statistical surveys." Whee! Oh, he claims that all injury stats are pretty bogus, and waxes poetically about the likelihood of getting road rash, a broken collar bone and severe head injuries. Think I'm joking? "Road rash is a precious gift. Road rash is your friend. Bask in it, appreciate it, love it." You can't make this stuff up. His point is that you will be a safer cyclist after planting your face on the pavement, going to the ER or just getting a square meter of skin rubbed off your body. Or maybe you will just quit before you fall. Because, according to Hurst, you will fall, and get hurt. He has more good news: that helmet you wear, it's junk. If I had to bet, I'd bet Hurst doesn't use one. He devotes a few pages to "the helmet controversy" initially painting it as bike riders thinking that their helmets will somehow protect them from a 60 mph impact with a Ford F150. He begrudgingly admits that helmets were made to protect cyclists heads from impacts in the 10 to 15 mph range (this being the actual maximum speed of the vast majority of cyclist falls). But he's right there to let you know that there could be accidents where the helmet could do more damage than good, one where the helmet gets caught on a bumper and you head gets twisted. Oh-kaaay. This is like the extremely rare group of accidents in a car where the seatbelt does more injury to the occupant than the impact would have. Sure, there is a miniscule chance of having that accident, but it is about as good as winning the lottery. Again, he says "wear a helmet" with the someone-told-me-to-say-this tone of the scolded child. Ready for more good news?Hurst puts in a couple of pages listing all the poisons in car emissions, then details special ways for cyclists to breathe. I'm not joking. He asks the question, "does air pollution cancel the health benefits of cycling?" His "joy of cycling" answer? "Who knows?" This is a quote, folks. Yes, he does go on to state that he thinks its better to ride, but by this point (page 197), he has either scared his readers or pissed them off or both. He makes swipes at biking clothes. He rails against panniers (bags that attach to racks on the front or back of a bike), even citing "anti-pannier" sentiment. Okay, you've read my rant. Here's my response to the book: Cycling is great fun. Wear a helmet. Wear bright, reflective clothes. If you might be out anywhere near dark, have good lights in front and back and if possible clipped to you and your helmet. Signal to drivers. They appreciate it. Respect others on the road as you would want them to respect you. Pay attention when you ride. But ride. Explore. You've never seen a place the way you will see it on a bike. It is a wonderful, visceral experience. There is no right or wrong bike: 27 speed or fixed gear or BMX--just ride. I didn't mention Hurst and his long rant on the lack of safety of bike paths (which he ultimately supports, in a way), but use these. Get your kids out on them. Go slow before you go fast. But feel the wind on your face. Cycling is really not as dangerous as Hurst wants you to believe. It is a joy, and fear is not and should not be the motivation for being a safe cyclist. Respect is the key for safety. Cyclists get enough uninformed fear-mongering from non-cyclists. We don't need it from a supposed advocate. One last warning: Do not get this book for a beginning cyclist! It could easily paralyze them from ever riding again. This book is a real shame. ... Read more

Product Description
From Philadelphia to the Amish country, this all-new guide to cycling eastern Pennsylvania's scenic roads includes tours for both road and mountain bikes. Patricia Vance has explored hundreds of miles of roads in eastern Pennsylvania to find the most scenic, uncrowded, and enjoyable cycling on both paved and dirt roads.

Areas covered include:
• Philadelphia
• Valley Forge
• The Brandywine River Valley
• Bucks County
• The Poconos
• The Endless Mountains
• Pennsylvania Dutch Country
• Gettysburg

Rides range in length from a 10-mile spin through the row houses of Old City Philadelphia to a 55-mile ramble in the rolling hills of the Pocono Mountains. Each chapter includes a detailed map, mile-by-mile tour directions, and information on mileage, terrain, and difficulty, as well as nearby bicycle rental and repair shops. An overview chart at the beginning of the book provides information at a glance to help you choose a tour. And throughout, Vance provides fascinating commentary on the history and culture of this picturesque region. 25 black & white photographs, 26 maps. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

this could be so much more user friendly than it is
I've enjoyed using this book; I have been on about five of the suggested rides, and enjoyed them all.In some cases they made me aware of areas of the region that I had ignored, and so I'm very grateful to the author.And I plan to buy the guides to adjacent regions as well.

So what follows is intended as very friendly constructive criticism, in hopes of a second edition, and perhaps general improvement of the series.

First, PLEASE could the maps not be detailed.Yesterday we tried the Ringing Rocks route.The instructions all depend on knowing the names of particular roads (all, for a miracle, clearly marked by the highway department) but those names are mostly NOT on the map.So it's very hard to know where you are.In this case we wanted to turn back half way, and joint the canal in the middle of the route instead of doing the whole 26 miles, but there was no indication on map of what the names of the relevant roads are.

Second, and I know this is hard in all such matters, but please write the directions for getting to the starting place in such a way that someone coming for the first time will absolutely get a good start.For example, in the Ringing Rocks instruction, why not say "there's an enormous white Baptist church where Cafferty Rd meets PA 32.And tell us which way to go in starting out: "Start at the parking lot" is much more helpful if you say where to go (North ?south?)

I'm thinking of getting a GPS to complement the book.But in a perfect world, especially for beginners, that surely shouldn't be necessary.

Third, why not make clear which rides can easily be shortened.The Ringing Rocks route can easily be two rides of half the distance, but only the map (inadequate, see above) makes that clear.The Delaware River Canal Towpath Route never even mentions (and it's not marked on the map) that there are places to cross which, again, can make the ride into a series of much shorter ones.

The book is clearly intended for beginners.We get a guide to biking in Center City Philadelphia, and we're told about Fairmount Park and the Schylkill.So why not offer as many short rides as possible?? ... Read more

Product Description
A complete adventure guide to California's astonishing array of national parks features 92 road and mountain bike rides through the state's most spectacular natural areas. From the snowcapped peaks of the Sierras to the towering coastal redwoods of Muir Woods, California's national parks are renowned for their splendor. Touring these national treasures by bike has become a favorite way to leave luggage-laden cars and busy roads behind and enjoy the hidden byways of these parks more fully. As Edward Abbey wrote, "A man on a bicycle will see more, feel more, enjoy more in one mile than the motorized tourist can in a hundred miles." Bike along the rugged coastline to the graceful beaches of Point Reyes, spin through the wild dunes of Death Valley, or pedal past the rock formations and climbers of Joshua Tree. Rides range in length from a 2-mile warm-up in Manzanar Historic Site to a breathtaking Yosemite tour of nearly 100 miles. Each ride description includes a detailed map, tour directions, information about the trail or road surface, sights along the way, and the length and difficulty of the ride. In addition, a trip-planning appendix for each park tells you where to stay or camp, do your laundry, eat, buy supplies, and repair or rent a bike.

* The first and only guide to bicycling California's national parks and wilderness areas
* Bicycling is becoming an evermore popular option as some national parks are closing roads to cars
* Nearly 100 rides are described and mapped in detail
* Part of the new national series: Bicycling America's National Parks
* Includes professional color photographs of the parks ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Great book, but beware ...
I agree with the other reviews that this book is informative and engagingly written, with excellent and thoroughly researched paved and back road routes. However, I noted two cases in the Yosemite descriptions where the author confused left and right. In ride 74 at the bottom of page 264 he writes that you "turn left (south) and then xleftx RIGHT! immediately again onto narrow Crescent Meadow Road. That one is obvious when you're there, but the other is crucial: In ride 70, in the middle of p. 258 "...before arriving at a meadow. It seems like you should go left, but stay to the right of the meadow." Nope--you must indeed go to the LEFT of that meadow to follow the described route (and the overall loop is to the right), while the right fork soon turns into barely recognizable cowpaths that eventually dead end in the woods. I mention this mainly because he makes such a big deal of it, and want to warn cyclists using the book to take the directions with a hint of caution.

Walk, don't run
This book "Bicycling America's National Parks" is part of the Backcountry series. Even thought I like bikes I prefer to go on foot. The same trails lend their selves to foot also.

Many a time I have been able to locate ranger stations where you can check in and be loosed on the back country trails. Luckily many people are not aware of these areas. Some trails you can go all day without running into a soul.

David Story should be ashamed of him self fore giving away the secret. But I am glad I found this book.

The book is divided into 15 locations and in each location there is a description of where you can stay and where you can rent bikes along with other relevant information.

There are also trail maps and photographs from the area. Most important is inclusion of addresses for more up to date and more detailed information.

Bicycling The Pacific Coast: A Complete Route Guide, Canada To Mexico

A Unique, Concise, Thorough, endlessly Readable Guidebook.
I just returned from a mountain biking vacation to Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave National Preserve, and Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational Area and this guidebook proved indespensible.It contains almost all information necessary to plan your trip and somehow manages to be both concise, thorough and readable.

Story introduces each chapter with a brief description of the geography and history of the park.Then Story lists several rides within the park, each accompanied by detailed descriptions (including technical and aerobic difficulty, best time of year to ride, overall length of trail, etc.) and maps.Though some road bike routes are included, most trails are for mountain bikes.Each trail I rode was accurately described.Each chapter also contains boxes describing the fauna (animals) and flora (plants) you'll likely encounter within each park.

This book isn't just a cycling guide, it contains virtually all the information you'll need to plan your trip.Story concludes each chapter with information about local lodging, camping, bike shops, grocery stores, and restaurants (his recommendations are first rate).He also provides helpful contacts (park visitors centers, etc.) which should be able to provide any other information you might need.Story has also eliminated the extraneous elements so many other cycling guidebooks seem to contain (elevation maps might be visually enticing, but let's face it, they aren't necessary).

What is really remarkable about this book is Story's terse, engaging writing.The abundance of information this book contains is presented in readable, often witty language.He doesn't just describe, he gives the reader a feel for each park and the surrounding communities (when applicable).Unlike most guidebooks I've read (which usually contain flat, predictable humor), Story's humor actually works; it isn't "laugh-out-loud" funny, but wry, witty humor that always relates to and never detracts from the subject matter.

The only improvement I would suggest for future editions is to provide a general map of each National Park.The trail maps only feature a small segment of the park where the trail is located.It is sometimes impossible to decipher where each trail is located within the entire park itself.This is particularly difficult for visitors not familiar with the area (like me).It was sometimes impossible to tell from the maps where the most convenient place to stay (closest lodging to the trails) is.The next edition should provide a map showing where each trail is located relative to the entire park.Before visiting a park, you should obtain a complete map from the National Park Service (Story does tell where to obtain these).

Story has set high standards with this guidebook, the first in the "Bicycling America's National Parks" series.It's the kind of book you'll enjoy reading even if you don't plan to hit the trails anytime soon.Story's writing is so engaging that finishing the 300-pages is effortless (300 pages may sound long, but it really isn't).This book is a must read for any cyclists interested in visiting the National Parks of California.I can't wait to read the subsequent guidebooks for other states.

A great guide and an even better read!
This book must be the first of its kind--a guidebook about bicycling in the national parks. The author shows that the common misperception that bicycling is not allowed off-road in national parks is just that-- a misperception. This book features some outstanding road rides as well as mountain bike rides. I think the descriptions of the parks themselves and the rides therein are well-written and clear. The author gives the kind of information you'd want to know before setting off on a ride, and does it in a colorful, sometimes very deadpan funny way. There's also some cool trivia about the parks and good, useful information about where to buy supplies, repair your bike, do laundry, take showers, camp, and other stuff like that. I think this is a book that shows you how to take part in the most fun sport in the world (bicycling) and do it in some of the most spectacular places in the world (the national parks of California). A must for any travelers to the national parks who want to get out of their cars and explore. (By the way: it's not just for hardcore bicyclists--there are numerous family and beginner-level rides as well.)

A great guide and an even better read!
This book must be the first of its kind--a guidebook about bicycling in the national parks. The author shows that the common misperception that bicycling is not allowed off-road in national parks is just that-- a misperception. This book features some outstanding road rides as well as mountain bike rides. I think the descriptions of the parks themselves and the rides therein are well-written and clear. The author gives the kind of information you'd want to know before setting off on a ride, and does it in a colorful, sometimes very deadpan funny way. There's also some cool trivia about the parks and good, useful information about where to buy supplies, repair your bike, do laundry, take showers, camp, and other stuff like that. I think this is a book that shows you how to take part in the most fun sport in the world (bicycling) and do it in some of the most spectacular places in the world (the national parks of California). A must for any travelers to the national parks who want to get out of their cars and explore. (By the way: it's not just for hardcore bicyclists--there are numerous family and beginner-level rides as well.) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Friendly and informative!
Reading this book is like talking to your best friend who also happens to have expert knowledge in human physiology and nutrition and alternative medicine, not to mention cycling technology and resources.This isn't "how to be a bicycle racer" but an encouraging and informative book on how to incorporate bicycling into a healthful lifestyle.Especially helpful if you are just starting out but even if you are an experienced cyclist you will find something in it for you too.

I've read and re-read and marked and flagged many passages in this book and keep going back to it not only for the great info, but the positive affirmations and empowering advice that it holds each time I open this enjoyable, friendly, readable book.

Portia, thank you, thank you, for writing this book for those of us who are never going to be fast "elite" cyclists but still love to cycle for the health and sheer joy of it!

The Zen of bicycle training
Incredibly useful book.If you're looking for Olympics level training, this is NOT the book for you.This is the book for everyone else, who are passionate about two-wheeled transport, and want to get more from the activity.Practical, holistic (includes yoga exercises), for men or women, built from her experiences running a bike shop.

Bicycles, Chicken, Red beans and Rice
This excellent book contains a wealth of information on how to properly fit a bike; physical conditioning; diet and nutrition; correcting problems generated by incorrect posture and movement on the bike; wellness; clothing; urban riding. The author notes: "...my own experience is that no matter how satisfactory my current cycling performance is, I can always refine my technique and discover new ways to increase my riding pleasure. I am certain you will find that the same is true for you."

Yep. She's right. Thirty-five years ago my wife and I started riding bikes by tooling about Nakhon Phanom Province in northeastern Thailand on a couple of Bridgestone 3-speeds. We did some biking off and on over the years, really into it at times, followed by dry spells for one reason or another. I have found that the changes in bike design, manufacturing technology, and attitudes toward riding have changed so dramatically that getting back on a bike today is like Henry Ford might feel parking his Model T and hopping directly into one of those soon-to-come Shelby GT500's. If you're in the same boat, this is a good book to get your mind back into cycling.

This book is an essential read for any novice before going bike shopping, and is an equally good read for more experienced riders who wish to clarify viewpoints and philosophies about cycling.

The Chicken, Red Bean, and Rice Chili recipe ain't too shabby, either.

Good advice for novice and advanced cyclists
I obtained this book from the local library and thought it contained sensible advice for novice as well as advanced cyclists. Not that proficient riders could not stand to learn more, but the book may be too basic for them (since I'm just a novice rider, I can't really judge that). The author appreciates the different motivations for riding -- leisure, fitness, competition, etc., and offers tips on proper bike fit, safety, stretching, nutrition, etc. There are even a few recipes in the back. The book is a recent publication (2004), important when choosing reading material in this subject since equipment improves and changes all the time. ... Read more

Product Description
Open Your Heart with Bicycling shows you not only how to, but why to enjoy one of the easiest and best activities around.Open Your Heart with Bicycling takes a holistic look at an easy and enjoyable activity -- whether you're alone or with family and friends. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
This book explains many aspects of bicycling that I knew little about. Everything from choosing the correct bike for your body-type, to the correct way to ride and race on a velodrome (which I need to work on! lol). Shawn Rohrbach also goes into an important part of bicycling for me which is exercising and eating right. I enjoyed hearing about how others eat while training and racing. Overall I am convinced that this is a terrific book for any bicyclist from the newer riders to the veteran riders who may be thinking of opening up their own bicycle shop.

Kodak
I found this book very rewarding and it renewed my love for bicycling. You are alone and have time to think and regroup. You find that there is a purpose in life just waiting to be explored.

Emphasizes the value of bicycling as a fun and enjoyable source of low impact exercise
DreamTime Publishing is an independent press that has as its particular mission and focus the publishing of books devoted to the development and enhancement of the mind and the body through their 'Open Your Heart' series. In "Open Your Heart With Bicycling: Mastering Life Through Love Of The Road", bicycling expert Shawn B. Rohrbach emphasizes the value of bicycling as a fun and enjoyable source of low impact exercise. But more than that, Rohrbach provides the reader with a wealth of information about everything from the bicycle business, to what dedicated bicyclists should eat, how they should get fit for cycling, commuting, bike paths, and more. Enhanced with appendices on 'Favorite Recipes', 'Off-Season Training', 'Internet Resources', as well as a glossary and an index, "Open Your Heart With Bicycling" is a 'must read' for all dedicated cyclists. Also highly recommended from DreamTime Publishing series of inspirational sports titles are: Lisa Marie Mercer's "Open Your Heart With Winter Fitness: Mastering Life Through Love Of The Slopes"; David L. Wilson's "Open Your Heart With Art: Mastering Life Through Love Of Everyday Creativity"; and Christopher J. Bibey "Open Your Heart With Basketball: Mastering Life Through Love Of The Game". ... Read more

Product Description
Pescatore presents 35 level, short rides that the whole family can enjoy alongside easy-to-read maps, information on attractions like playgrounds and petting zoos, and tips on safety and equipment. These routes are also recommended for in-line skaters, cross-country skiers, and others who appreciate flat courses. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (5)

For cyclists old and new
I've been a avid cyclist for nearly three decades and am always looking for some new insights in order to be a more efficient and stronger cyclist. This handbook comes from the publishers of Bicycling [1-year]which also has relevent information for cyclists. Recently I've included some new training methods and cross training into my normal cycling routine and I found this book beneficial. You can pick and choose your information as the concise format lends itself to browsing the book. It is a small book that you can take most anywhere and pull out to get some information. The tips are very often redundant and common sense ,especially if you have been cycling for avery long time. However there is always something new to learn or just something you may have overlooked even if you are veteran cyclist. An example is just your basic riding postion. The book suggests that on even on your easy ride days you can improve your riding technique by taking note of certain things. For example, I tend to ride with my elbows out(doesn't seem like a big deal but it is)so I now pay attention to this riding quirk and constantly correct my technique. Eventually a better riding technique will be second nature and I won't need to compensate. I picked up some good advice for the gym regarding working on certain cycling specific muscles, the role of the calves and the heart and soul of your stroke, the quads. The suggested excercises for the quads has helped especially since one(step up)some can be done at home from a bench or an elevated firm place.The power and force training sections were concise but filled with useful information. No matter what level of cyclist you are you will be able to benefit from this handbook for improving you riding skills. If you are new to cycling than I would highly recommend this book for a basic handbook for nearly all facets of cycling.

Excellent book
I really enjoyed this book and found it very helpful for improving my technique.It's a fast read and deserves to be read a couple of times.The author/editor points out that there are several conflicting opinions given, but like anything in life you need to find the one that works best for you.It's good to see that the editor didn't think he had to just give the most popular opinion.I highly recommend this book for riders looking to step up their training.

A good start
This book is a good starting point for training for cycling. It gives the reader an overview of training and the different approaches there are to training. It drives home the point that each individual is different and that you need to customize a training programt to fit your own needs and abilities. Again, though, I felt it was a good starting point. Giving you a taste of what's out there, introducing you to terms, and what you should be thinking about as you design your own training plan.

As you become more serious about training for cycling, I recommend picking up A Cyclist's Training Bible by Joe Friel.

Quite good, but buy it's bigger brother instead.
It's been a while since I last flicked through this book, which tells you something about it. It's a good book, no doubt about it, but I bought it at the same time as another book "The Complete Book of Long-Distance Cycling" (see my review on that one too!). That book overshadows this one, as it goes into more detail and THAT is the one I find myself re-reading. First and foremost as one of the authors is the same, a lot of the stuff is doubled up.

Note that this book is only 110 pages long and the pages are fairly small. Once again, every page or so, bits of the book are worthy of being highlighted.

If you read bicycling magazine often (which I don't) you probably already know a lot of the content. If you've been cycling for several years (10 for me), I think a lot of the tips can be described as common sense, such as keeping your cadence around 90rpm, consuming carbohydrates and staying hydrated...

But I get the feeling that it tries to cover too much ground. This is more of a book that uses point form. It does get to the crux of the matter quickly, but I prefer to understand /why/ a method works, not just be told that it works, so go do it. Be aware that not all of the techniques discussed here will suit your style of riding. I mean I'm never going to practise sprints. I'm wondering now if I did all they suggested on a ride, I wouldn't enjoy it anymore. Practise you're breathing, cycle for two minutes with alternate legs, concentrate on achieving a flat back posture, pull back then up on the pedals... too much to think about at any one time.

Don't expect to find many weekly training plans in here. For me that was good news, as I've never followed one. I think it all depends on how you're feeling (not to mention the weather and other things that crop up).

One annoying thing, the rest of the world uses metric units: some people, like me, have absolutely no idea how much a fluid ounce is. For the rest of the planet, 1oz = 28ml of water.

Bottom line: I'd say get this book if you've fairly new to cycling and keen to learn ways of improving - take what you want from it and don't worry about the rest.

Great Training Guide
A great book for cyclists who do not have access to million dollar training facilities. The author takes a no nonsense approach to training that anybody can follow providing they have a bike a stationary trainer anda desire. I found this book very useful. The best part was the authorincluded a section on mountain biking. Thanks! ... Read more

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CA ROAD TRIP: NORTHERN CALI

Customer Reviews (1)

Got me out of my neighborhood.
As Middle Tennessee transplant and new cyclist I was reluctant to get out of my neighborhood till reading this book.The format was clear and I could venture out without risking getting totally lost or on some super dangerous roadway.The commentary that accompanies each route lends interest to the rides and the numerous hints and guides for more information in the back were extremely helpful.This book is worth reading even for an experienced cycling native Nashvillian. ... Read more

Product Description
This is a reproduction of a book published before 1923.This book may have occasional imperfections such as missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. that were either part of the original artifact, or were introduced by the scanning process.We believe this work is culturally important, and despite the imperfections, have elected to bring it back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide.We appreciate your understanding of the imperfections in the preservation process, and hope you enjoy this valuable book. ... Read more

Product Description
Webster's bibliographic and event-based timelines are comprehensive in scope, covering virtually all topics, geographic locations and people. They do so from a linguistic point of view, and in the case of this book, the focus is on "Bicycling," including when used in literature (e.g. all authors that might have Bicycling in their name). As such, this book represents the largest compilation of timeline events associated with Bicycling when it is used in proper noun form. Webster's timelines cover bibliographic citations, patented inventions, as well as non-conventional and alternative meanings which capture ambiguities in usage. These furthermore cover all parts of speech (possessive, institutional usage, geographic usage) and contexts, including pop culture, the arts, social sciences (linguistics, history, geography, economics, sociology, political science), business, computer science, literature, law, medicine, psychology, mathematics, chemistry, physics, biology and other physical sciences. This "data dump" results in a comprehensive set of entries for a bibliographic and/or event-based timeline on the proper name Bicycling, since editorial decisions to include or exclude events is purely a linguistic process. The resulting entries are used under license or with permission, used under "fair use" conditions, used in agreement with the original authors, or are in the public domain. ... Read more

Product Description
Nowhere in the world can you bearrested for having too much fun while riding a bicycle! Unless, of course, youread 'BICYCLING AROUND THE WORLD'! Whether you're 'flying' over 15,000 footpasses with two condors in the Andes, riding with an emuin the Australian Outback, facing a king cobra in Nepal or meeting a manwalking across America on his hands, Wooldridge carries readers into theastounding world of long distance bicycle touring. From the first chapter to thelast, you're riding on the edge of your seat with laughter and wonder. This isthe best of 26 years in the saddle. If you've never smelled the breath of agrizzly bear in camp, you will. You'll find out how he discovered the'Voluptuousness of Living'. Wooldridge meets fascinating men and women fromaround the globe that will astound and inspire you. This book mesmerizes readers withanimal stories that bring a smile to your face. It will pain your mind andheart seeing the Third World. It chills you with a once-in-a-lifetime ride in Antarcticawhere you'll meet a family of Emperor penguins. Along the way, you'll find outthat you have to go without a mirror, sometimes, in order to see yourself. Thegreatest aspect of this book comes from--expectation! Not since 'Miles From Nowhere' has a writer captured the Zen and Art ofBicycle Adventure as well as Wooldridge. Not only that, you enjoy a finalsection--'EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LONG DISTANCE TOURING'. He showsyou 'HOW TO LIVE THE DREAM'. You'll have the right bike, equipment, money andtools to ride into your own long distance touring adventures. If you likebicycling, you'll go wild reading this book. If you don't like bicycling,you'll still go wild reading this book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Penguins in Antarctica....... On a bike ride??
Okay, you've read every bicycle adventure book on the market in the past 20 years.You've read "Pedaling to the Ends of the Earth" and "Miles from Nowhere."They carried you on long adventures.



But in "Bicycling Around the World," you're going to sweat, laugh and cry right along with Wooldridge as he takes you on the fifty best adventures that have ever happened to a long distance touring cyclist.Once you read the first episode that will startle your senses, you won't be able to stop.Each chapter draws you uncontrollably into the next adventure.



He mesmerizes readers into the astounding world of a long distance touring rider.Personally, I never expected to meet a cobra face to face, but I did in his book. I have never seen a grizzly bear, but I smelled a grizzly's breath in the first chapter.Who would have thought anyone could walk across America on his hands? You'll meet Bob Wieland in the fourth chapter and you will never forget him.



How many cyclists ride for 13 years non stop?Stan is still out there on the road as you read this review.He's living the dream.But he's not alone as the casket man rolls down the highway with his own amazing adventure.He offers secrets that few contemplate.



The raw adventure moments leave you sweating bullets, but then, Wooldridge pulls you into 15,000 foot passes where you're faced with 12 foot condors flying 30 feet off your handlebars.Is there a favorite chapter in this book?That depends!The chapter where he meets a family of penguins in Antarctica on his bicycle must take the cake as the most incredible experience anyone has ever had on a bicycle.



The subtitle to the book is, "Tire Tracks for Your Imagination."What I liked about the cover stems from the fact that he's inside the highest railroad tunnel in the world at 11,000 feet on Corona Pass in the Rocky Mountains.But it could be anyone as it's a black silhouette.It could be you.It could be me.



He even shows readers "How to Live the Dream."His special section: "Everything You Need to Know About Touring" offers sound advice that will start any novice off on the right foot.



Finally, this is one heck of a read for anyone who loves adventure.It carries readers off to six continents and six times across the United States.It inspires hope, engenders enthusiasm and optimism for the future.



Mike Machuga

Denver, Colorado


... Read more

Product Description
Guidebook for cycling Northwestern Oregon, including the coast and Mount Hood. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great ride ideas for a great place to ride
Did my first ride out of this book today. I noticed I hadn't been riding much this year as I was going over many of the same roads as previous years. This book opens up many great locations with excellent turn by turn directions. Looks like it works hard to keep you on the less traveled roads. Just what I was looking for.

The best book around for the geography covered.
I'm not sure why this book hasn't been updated in so long, and I'm not sure why there isn't more competition from other guides in an area as bicycle crazy as Northwest Oregon, but this is the best guide currently available. In general, its maps and tips remain accurate, so I give it a thumbs up.

And, please, wear helmets!

Good road selection, accurate maps, and helpful text
Good road selection, accurate maps and helpful text make this book an excellent guide to road bicycling in northwest Oregon.The forty-five rides listed nearly all start within short distances from Portland, Corvallis, Salem, or Eugene.Ride distances range from a short 11 miler to the three day 177 mile Oregon Coaster loop.Each ride in the book includes a clear map of the ride, a cue sheet/mileage log, an elevation profile, and a few paragraphs of descriptive text.This book was extremely helpful in planning a recent ten day bicycling trip around northwest Oregon.While I did not, strictly speaking, ride any of the 45 rides in this book, the information in this book contributed greatly in road selection and understanding the terrain.For example, in the Mt. Hood area, if I had relied on the Delorme atlas, our route would have included several gravel roads.Jones and Henderson's book, however, shows which roads in the vicinity are gravel thereby helping us avoid them.For those of you fortunate enough to live in northwest Oregon, this book would be an excellent way to discover some new rides. For the non-Oregonian, the book can serve as an excellent resource in route-planning.As a sidelight, I would comment that I have yet to find a book published by The Mountaineers that has not been uniformly helpful, whether the content is bicyling or hiking. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (3)

Decent Entry-Level MTB Book
Coming in at 118 pages, and a smaller size book, this is what it is.No, it's not a mountain bike master level course, but you really need a video for that.This is a great basic rundown for a new mountain biker or teenager looking to get into the sport, but who doesn't want to read War and Peace about it.It has a basic rundown of many skills people use every day but don't realize they are using them.I would suggest this book, but not as a stand-alone, I would pick up this, Ned Overends book, and a D.I.Y. MTB repair book if you want to get a good feel for MTB basics and mid-level skills.You should also check out videos as well though.

Really Bad
It's really hard to find a good mountain biking book these days.Everyone is trying to learn the infamous bunny hop but even for books with illustrations, it is still hard to follow.Well, try a book with no photos - that's this book.Really bad and hard to follow.The writing is really boring.Skip.From what I read, I say skip the books - mountain biking really requires a live-action DVD to really teach you how to ride.

Not so good
This book was not as useful as Mastering Mountain Bike Skills
by Brian Lopes. Descriptions not as in depth and not many pictures to show what the author was actually talking about. ... Read more