In cities throughout the world, bicycles have gained a high profile in recent years, with politicians and activists promoting initiatives like bike lanes, bikeways, bike share programs, and other social programs to get more people on bicycles. Bicycles in the city are, some would say, the wave of the future for car-choked, financially-strapped, obese, and sustainability-sensitive urban areas. This book explores how and why people are reconsidering the bicycle, no longer thinking of it simply as a toy or exercise machine, but as a potential solution to a number of contemporary problems. It focuses in particular on what reconsidering the bicycle might mean for everyday practices and politics of urban mobility, a concept that refers to the intertwined physical, technological, social, and experiential dimensions of human movement. This book is for Introductory Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, Cultural Sociology, Environmental Anthropology, and all undergraduate courses on the environment and on sustainability throughout the social sciences.

Geraint Thomas is treasured for treating his sport just as the rest of us see it: not a job, or a pharmaceutical contest, but an escape and an adventure. He's been with Team Sky since its inception, and is one of our most successful and gifted track and road riders, but Geraint reminds us that getting on the bike still puts a smile on your face and fire in the legs like nothing else. -- Cyngor Llyfrau Cymru

What is it really like to be a racer? What is it like to be swept along at 60kmh in the middle of the pack? What happens to the body during a high-speed chute? What tactics must teams employ to win the day, the jersey, the grand tour? What sacrifices must a cyclist make to reach the highest levels? What is it like on the bus? In the hotels? What camaraderie is built in the confines of a team? What rivalries? How does it feel to be constantly on the road, away from loved ones, tasting one more calorie-counted hotel breakfast? David Millar offers us a unique insight into the mind of a professional cyclist during his last year before retirement. Over the course of a season on the World Tour, Millar puts us in touch with the sights, smells and sounds of the sport. This is a book about youth and age, fresh-faced excitement and hard-earned experience. It is a love letter to cycling. 'Cycling has always been about a great deal more than its winners, and The Racer is quite a ride' Spectator

How 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 websites. Written by New Zealand's top cycling writer, the book is aimed at family groups and first-time cyclists as well as more experienced groups. It's accompanied by colour photos, elevation profiles and maps of each trail. This new fully revised edition also provides an introduction to Tour Aotearoa which goes from Cape Reinga to Bluff. It's a 3000-km length of New Zealand ride, taking in many of the Great Rides, and connecting them together with the safest and most enjoyable roads and tracks available. The route is fully open to the public. It can be done in one highly adventurous hit, or divided up into shorter lengths and completed over a period of time. Don't put your bike on the bike rack without this book!

Why would someone set out on a bicycle tour of Ireland? Because Ireland is as stunning a country as any you'll ever visit. There's the extraordinary light, which adds intensity to everything, making greens and whites appear greener and whiter. It's all there: moss-covered mountains rising ominously from the mist, bright blue skies over white sandy beaches; the ghostlike ruins of ancient monasteries on misty days... With picturesque routes and breathtaking landscapes, Ireland is beloved by cyclists in search of an exhilarating yet memorable experience. In Green Tour of Ireland, avid cyclist Paul Benjaminse explores the a route around Ireland from Belfast to Dublin via the most spectacular and scenic routes in the country and offers his expert advice on the best way to see the beautiful parts of Ireland. Includes detailed routes and maps of; Ulster Sligo Cork Connemara The Burren Leinster and the Dublin Mountains.

The Tour de France Grand Depart of 2014 shone a light on Yorkshire as a world class cycling destination. But the triumph that was Le Tour was in many ways the latest encounter in a unique long distance love affair between the White Rose and the most challenging race on the planet. From the culture shock that working class Yorkshiremen experienced cycling alongside the continental greats of the 1950s and 60s to the golden triumphs of post-Millennial Olympic success, Cycle Yorkshire tells the region's cycling story through the eyes of the riders themselves. It delves into how the pit villages, steelworks, glorious landscapes and riding routes of Yorkshire have played their part in pioneering and sustaining British cycling at home and abroad. And it explores the stories of bravery, passion and heartbreak behind legends like Brian Robinson, Barry Hoban, Tom Simpson and Beryl Burton and the successes of modern day greats like Malcolm Elliott, Ed Clancy and Lizzie Deignan, while looking at what the future might hold for the sport in God's Own Country with its first Road World Championships on the horizon in 2019. There are exclusive interviews, first person musings from the centre of the action and informed guides on the region's best cycling climbs and top training routes along the way. It's the ultimate account of Yorkshire's cycling story.

"Shows that sport has been for us moderns the ultimate "tabula rasa" into which we pour our hopes, fears, prejudices and self-interest."--Robert A. Nye, author of "Crime, Madness, & Politics in Modern France" and "Masculinity and Male Codes of Honor in Modern France"
"Chris Thompson has written an engaging, nicely-paced account of France's world-famous cycle race: his writing is lively and full of detail and excitement. But he has done much more than simply narrate the story of the Tour. His book sets the race--its history, its participants and its meaning--firmly in its shifting national and cultural contexts. The sections dealing with professional cycling as a form of labor and with the Tour's place in France's troubled twentieth century are absolutely first-rate: insightful and original. This is the best history of the Tour that we have and are likely to have for many years, a work of scholarship that deserves to find a broad general readership."--Tony Judt, author of "Postwar: A History of Europe Since 1945"

'The latest book from the inestimable and seemingly irrepressible Simon Warren.' thewashingmachinepost From 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.

The Cyclist's Training Manual is the definitive guide to skills development and fitness training for every cyclist. From those new to cycling to experienced racers looking for an edge, this book will help you to become a better rider.All major cycling disciplines are covered, including road racing, time trials, track, cross country and downhill mountain biking, cyclo-cross, and even cyclo-sportive. And every page is packed with solid advice and support, from insider tips to detailed training programs.Combined with action photography and training tips from some of the world's leading riders, this manual provides everything you need to take to the road, track, or trail.Get insider tips on: Cycling skills - from how to go fast to stopping quickly and safely, as well as group riding, climbing, descending, cornering, and other essential skills. Components of fitness - from the upper body strength of the downhill mountain biker to the endurance of the long distance rider - which elements of fitness to focus on. Choosing your races - how to get started on the cycling discipline that matches your strengths, plus tactical tips and goals from more experienced riders. Developing training plans - step-by-step guidance for training plans, personal analysis, and detailed schedules for every discipline and event. Keeping healthy - an A-Z section detailing all you need to know to keep healthy, from nutrition and hydration to dealing with aches and pains.

Riding up hills is the ultimate challenge for a cyclist. This guide is a compilation of some of the best hills in Bristol, Bath, and the surrounding area. It's not just a definitive list of the top 50 toughest climbs; instead, author J J Wheeler has selected some of the most iconic, the most thrilling, the most interesting, varied and, of course, hardest hill climbs that this region has to offer. There's something here for everyone, from the Weekend Warrior to the serious road racer. Just get out there and enjoy the ride!

The inspiring story of one man's record-breaking cycle around the world. On Monday 18th September 2017, Mark Beaumont pedalled through the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. 78 days, 14 hours and 40 minutes earlier he set off from the same point, beginning his attempt to circumnavigate the world in record time. Covering more than 18,000 miles and cycling through some of the harshest conditions one man and his bicycle can endure, Mark made history. He smashed two Guinness World Records and beat the previous record by an astonishing 45 days. Around the World in 80 Days is the story of Mark's amazing achievement - one which redefines the limits of human endurance. It is also an insight into the mind of an elite athlete and the physical limits of the human body, as well as a kaleidoscopic tour of the world from a very unique perspective; inspired by Jules Verne's classic adventure novel, Mark begins his journey in Paris and cycles through Europe, Russia, Mongolia and China. He then crosses Australia, rides up through New Zealand and across North America before the final 'sprint finish' thorough Portugal, Spain and France, all at over 200 miles a day. This is the story of a quite remarkable adventure, by a quite remarkable man.

The 137-mile Coast to Coast Route (C2C) was the first national cycle route in Britain and has grown to become the most popular long-distance cycle ride in the country. Tackling the route over five days is a marvellous mini-adventure that should appeal to all sorts of cyclists. Every stage of the route, from Whitehaven on the west coast of Cumbria to Tynemouth in the east, is described by author Nicolas Mitchell, including fascinating accounts of its rich industrial heritage and details of the many opportunities to explore its glorious natural history. The guide includes route maps and elevation charts indicating the ascent and descent; full-colour and archive photographs of all the sights along the way; details listings of accommodation, places to eat and drink and local bike shops and finally, advice on how to prepare yourself and your bike for the trip.

Everything you need to know about cycling for fitness and leisure, training for both sport and competition, and the greatest races. It is the perfect introduction to a hugely popular activity, packed with training and safety tips, essential information, maintenance and motivation. It is a fascinating guide to the world of cycling, the history, the greatest cyclists, and the famous races such as the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia. From urban cycling and family cycling trips to track riding, mountain biking and road racing, this is the ultimate practical guide to cycling at all levels. It features step-by-step instruction and over 600 photographs. Pedal power has never been more popular and this book covers everything a cyclist needs to know to excel at cycling. After an overview of the history of the bicycle the author discusses all the essentials, such as choosing a bike, basic skills, maintenance and safety issues. The second part features the right equipment for touring at home and abroad and gives the lowdown on all types of bikes from sportive to racing bikes.For the more adventurous, the book then presents extreme touring, competitive performance cycling, the challenge of trail racing, and training for advanced racing. With expert advice throughout this is a must-have book for all cyclists.

For All Levels of Performance. This book covers all aspects of training. It shows readers how to assess their fitness, set up their own training plan based on their individual skills and needs. Provides well-founded instructions for mountain bike training while always taking scientific principles of training and discipline-specific criteria into account Cross Country, Marathon, etc..

Muck, Sweat & Gears is a compendium of fascinating facts, quotes, stats, stories, personalities, advice and trivia - fully revised to include cycling's dramatic increase in popularity since the first volume was published. This revised and updated edition includes stories on: Bono's cycling accident in Central Park, New York; the wedding of Solange Knowles and Alan Ferguson, when they rode to church on white bicycles; the 2014 Commonwealth and 2016 Rio Olympic Games cycling events; the Tour de France and the new Tour de Yorkshire; epic bicycle journeys; MAMIL (middle-aged men in lycra) activities; and new technology. Muck, Sweat & Gears is the perfect gift for the cyclist in your life, whether he or she is an everyday commuter, mountain biker, cycle courier, tourist or racer.

For 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.

The revised edition of the classic cycling guide by Harold Briercliffe of 1950. Used as the inspiration for the Britain by Bike television series and a vital part of the award-winning Britain by Bike book by Jane Eastoe, the original book is reproduced along with suggested cycling routes in the Central England region for today's cyclists. Harold Briercliffe was the Alfred Wainwright of cycling and his books provide great insight into cycling in various parts of the UK in the 1940s. Harold's fascinating description of the towns, villages and roads of Britain at the time is a joy for all those who love these isles and especially for cyclists looking for inspiration. Many roads have changed over the decades and are now too busy for enjoyable cycling, so Mark Jarman, along with Sustrans, have made suggestions for alternative routes in the region for today's cyclists. The book includes the original photographs taken by Harold Briercliffe and the original illustrations. The Cycling Touring Guide: Southern England covers cycle routes in the Thames Valley and the Cotswolds, The Isle of Wight, The New Forest, between London and the South Coast, and routes along the South Coast. The cycle routes vary in length from half day and day-long trips to weekend and week-long tours.

'Inspiring... proves anything is possible if you just believe and give it a go' Sun 'Masses of heart... frank and funny' Melanie Sykes 'Gritty and glorious' Ruth Field 'Thrillingly honest and hopeful' Jools Walker ***************************************** Rachel is a cyclist. But she was never meant to be. After gaining mental strength and healing through running, she thought she was free. Her depression alleviated, she came off antidepressants, winning races and collecting medals at marathons. But when an injury stopped the only thing helping to quiet the voices in her brain, Rachel found out what she is truly made of. As body dysmorphia began to grip her in earnest, she knew she had to find a different way to kick her mental health demons for the sake of her sanity. So, she went down to her cellar, heaved out her old bike, and started pedalling. Like her life depended on it. A Midlife Cyclist is a tale of two wheels, across the Yorkshire Dales, Vietnam, Costa Rica and beyond, and a rider in search of peace. Includes exclusive Q&A with Jools Walker, aka Lady Velo ***************************************** Praise for Running For My Life: 'Heartwarming' Jo Pavey 'Brave and inspiring' Ruth Field 'I love Running For My Life' Louise Minchin

Greg LeMond, 'L'Americain': fresh-faced, prodigious newcomer. This is supposed to be his year. Bernard Hinault, 'The Badger': aggressive, headstrong, five-time winner of the Tour. He has pledged his unwavering support to his team mate, LeMond. The team is everything in cycling, so the world watches, stunned, as LeMond and Hinault's explosive rivalry plays out over three high-octane weeks. Slaying the Badger relives the adrenaline and agony as LeMond battles to become the first American to win the Tour, with the Badger relentlessly on the attack. Includes brand new material for the paperback.

I checked my balance and peered apprehensively at the sheer drop below. Once I felt comfortable, I radioed down to Stu. 'I'm just gonna unclip quickly,' I said. My walkie-talkie crackled straight away. Stu sounded pretty stressed. 'Dude, keep the rope on!' I edged forward, my hands and feet scoping out the summit for any loose rock. The ridge pinnacle was still only a meter wide, if that, but I felt pretty stable. 'This bit's fine,' I said. 'The rope makes it harder for me...' Danny MacAskill lives on the edge. The cyclist is legendary for his YouTube viral videos like The Ridge, Cascadia and Imaginate: nerve-racking montages of stunts which scale everything from mountain peaks, rooftops, ghost towns and movie sets. His life is one of thrills, bloody spills and millions of online hits. It hasn't been an easy ride. Doubt, stress and the 'what if?' factor circle every trailblazing trick, which require imagination, fearlessness, groundbreaking techniques and an eye for a good camera angle. He has spent his life pushing the extremes; somehow, he's still around to tell the tale. In this unflinching memoir of mayhem, Danny shares his anarchic childhood on the Isle of Skye and early days as a street trials rider, takes us behind the scenes of his training and videos, shares never-seen-before sketches from his personal notebook, and reveals what it takes to go the next level - both mentally and physically. Join Danny for a nerve-shredding ride. Just be sure to bring a crash helmet.