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9 Books All Cyclists Should Read

Fancy a cycling read for some essential downtime? Here's our top choices

Getting your head stuck into a good book is a great way to unwind, learn new things and share experiences.

We’ve compiled a list of our favourite cycling books, guaranteed to inspire you, humour you and maybe teach you a thing or two on the way.

Moods of Future Joys – Alastair Humphreys

This is the first part of a man’s remarkable journey to cycle the circumference of the Earth. Crossing the oceans, and exploring some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes on two wheels, Alastair beautifully writes about his adventure.

Guaranteed to inspire you to reach for the map and plan your own route, Moods of Future Joys is a delightful book about adventure and self-discovery.

Great British Cycling – Ellis Bacon

One for the history buffs and cycling enthusiasts, Ellis Bacon maps out the evolution of the cycling industry in Britain from 1868 – present.

Backed up by thorough research and insightful interviews, Bacon leads us through the ages by sharing the stories of notable athletes such as Beryl Burton, Mark Cavendish and Chris Froome.

With a handy index reference at the back for individual stories, it isn’t a book that requires a full read through if you wanted to skip to a particular story or interview.

Gold – Chris Cleave

This novel had us gripped from the first page until the last!

The story is about two close female friends, and track cyclists… so far so good. However, an opportunity arises where only one of them can race at the Olympics, and coupled with personal tragedy off the track, this book takes you on an emotional roller-coaster.

Riddled with twists and turns, this novel is anything but predictable.

The Hour – Michael Hutchinson

The UCI Hour Record is a prestigious title to earn. It’s a competition which started in the late 1800’s which simply records the distance covered in one hour, on a bicycle.

This book takes place before the 2014 regulation change, covering Hutchinson’s lead up to take on the record whilst offering valuable training tips and track insights. He reflects on the athletes who also undertook the Hour challenge before him, and gears himself up – and the reader – for a suspenseful challenge on the track.

The Obree Way: A Training Manual for Cyclists – Graeme Obree

 

An hour record holder, Greame Obree, is also a time trialist and track racer. His book is a manual – of sorts – for all cyclists. In addition to offering training information and nutrition, you also catch a glimpse at the inner workings of this cycling legend.

However, what works for this cycling genius may not work for everyone, but nonetheless, it’s an entertaining read.

What Goes Around: A London Cycle Courier’s Story – Emily Chappell

 

What’s more rewarding than being able to combine your passion with your career? Emily Chappell records the high’s and low’s of being a bicycle courier in the heart of London.

Not intending this to be her career, Emily has now been working as a courier for 6 six years, and claims it to be her most intense affair yet.

This beautifully written book recounts her experiences of the job, whilst painting a true and raw image of our nation’s capital city.

The Breakaway – Nicole Cooke

 

Being a woman in a male dominated sport is tough. There’s constant heat surrounding the gender debates over coverage, pay and rights.

Unlike Lance Armstrong, before the doping incident, Nicole Cooke wasn’t a household name. Despite her dedication, training and hard work, she didn’t stand in the media limelight like her male counterparts. After announcing her retirement in 2013, Nicole publishes The Breakaway, telling all about the struggle, the rewards and the world of professional cycling.

This gripping and eye-opening read shines a light on this incredible World Champion, and Olympic Champion athlete.

Mastering MTB Skills – Brian Lopes

 

Fancy something a little more technical and brushing up on your MTB skills? Then Brian Lopes’ book is for you.

High quality images, sequence skill photos and expert tutoring makes this a great reference guide to every mountain biker. Whether it’s to brush up on skills, or enjoy the race stories told by World Champ, Brian Lopes and professional coach, Lee McCormack, this book is a great read.

Bike Snob: Systematically and Mercilessly Realigning the World of Cycling – Anonymous

 

From the hilarious secret cycling blogger, Bike Snob NYC, comes this book full of observations, experiences and hilarious perspectives on cycling.

A light-hearted, and easy read book that showcases all aspects of cycling in new and funny ways. Many of which, we can all relate to!

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