The bicycle has long been a part of American culture but few would describe it as an essential element of American identity in the same way that it is fundamental to European and Asian cultures. Instead, American culture has had a more turbulent relationship with the bicycle. First introduced in the United States in the 1830s, the bicycle reached its height of popularity in the 1890s as it evolved to become a popular form of locomotion for adults. Two decades later, ridership in the United States collapsed. As automobile consumption grew, bicycles were seen as backward and unbecoming-particularly for the white middle class. Turpin chronicles the story of how the bicycle's image changed dramatically, shedding light on how American consumer patterns are shaped over time. Turpin identifies the creation and development of childhood consumerism as a key factor in the bicycle's evolution. In an attempt to resurrect dwindling sales, sports marketers reimagined the bicycle as a child's toy. By the 1950s, it had been firmly established as a symbol of boyhood adolescence, further accelerating the declining number of adult consumers. Tracing the ways in which cycling suffered such a loss in popularity among adults is fundamental to understanding why the United States would be considered a ""car"" culture from the 1950s to today. As a lens for viewing American history, the story of the bicycle deepens our understanding of our national culture and the forces that influence it.

For adventure-loving cyclists as well as anyone who has ever daydreamed of pedaling the open road or trail . . .
Imagine a bike trip through California wine country, a nature tour of Vermont in autumn, mountain biking the north rim of the Grand Canyon, climbing Mont Ventoux during the Tour de France! There's nothing quite like the exhilaration of a bike tour vacation if it is done right-not to mention the fitness benefits it provides. Backed by nearly two decades of experience from the most authoritative magazine on cycling, this book shows the way. Written in a quick, easy-to-absorb style, it tells you:
o How to buy the right touring bike and gear
o How to find a good touring company
o How to plan your own tour
o Training programs for any length of tour
o What clothing to choose for specific weather conditions
o How much and what to eat and drink
o Cycling Dream Trips-the 10 places you have to ride
Complete with maintenance tips and 12 emergency repairs you should know how to do, advice on riding in bad weather and in heavy traffic, and the ultimate packing checklist of what you need to take no matter where (or how long) you go, this handy, helpful guide is designed to make your bike tour an invigorating, rewarding experience you will never forget.