One woman, one bike and one richly entertaining, perception-altering journey of discovery. In 2015, as the Syrian War raged and the refugee crisis reached its peak, Rebecca Lowe set off on her bicycle across the Middle East. Driven by a desire to learn more about this troubled region and its relationship with the West, Lowe's 11,000-kilometre journey took her through Europe to Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Sudan, the Gulf and finally to Iran. It was an odyssey through landscapes and history that captured her heart, but also a deeply challenging cycle across mountains, deserts and repressive police states that nearly defeated her. Plagued by punctures and battling temperatures ranging from -6 to 48C, Lowe was rescued frequently by farmers and refugees, villagers and urbanites alike, and relied almost entirely on the kindness and hospitality of locals to complete this living portrait of the modern Middle East. This is her evocative, deeply researched and often very funny account of her travels - and the people, politics and culture she encountered. 'Terrifically compelling ... bursting with humour, adventure and insight into the rich landscapes and history of the Middle East. Lowe recounts the beauty, kindnesses and complexities of the lands she travels through with an illuminating insight. A wonderful new travel writer.' Sir Ranulph Fiennes

Bikepacking Scotland by Markus Stitz features 20 great multi-day off-the-beaten-track cycling adventures across the Scottish mainland and islands. The book features routes of different lengths which take in the best of the country, from the Ayrshire Alps, Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders in southern Scotland, through Perthshire’s unique drovers’ roads and the grand architecture of the Central Belt, across to Argyll’s islands on ferry-hopping adventures around Islay, a paradise for whisky connoisseurs, and Jura and Mull to spot magnificent golden eagles. And, of course, the Scottish Highlands with an epic tour of the Cairngorms National Park, home to 25 per cent of Britain's rare and endangered species, as well as the author’s own take on the North Coast 500 and more. Researched and written by the founder of Bikepacking Scotland, and mostly accessible by public transport, each route includes all the information you need to help you plan your ride, with points of interest along the route, food recommendations and accommodation options, in addition to stunning photography and overview mapping. Downloadable GPX files of the routes are also available. Alongside further information on access, seasons and what to pack, and valuable insight from Scottish cycling personalities including Mark Beaumont and Jenny Graham, this book is full of practical tips and advice for both experienced bikepackers and those who want to try it out for the first time.

Jan Ullrich: The Best There Never Was is the first biography of Jan Ullrich, arguably the most naturally talented cyclist of his generation, and also one of the most controversial champions of the Tour de France. 'Magnificent' – Matt Dickinson, The Times 'A superlative biography as well as social and sporting history' – The Observer In 1997, Jan Ullrich announced himself to the world by obliterating his rivals at the Tour de France and becoming Germany’s first ever winner. Everyone agreed: Jan Ullrich would dominate the future of cycling. But he never quite managed it. This is a gripping account of how unbearable expectation, mental and physical fragility, the effects of a complicated childhood, a morally corrupt sport and one individual – Lance Armstrong – can conspire to reroute destiny. Acclaimed journalist Daniel Friebe takes us from the legacy of East Germany’s drugs programme to the pinnacle of pro cycling and asks: what price can you give sporting immortality?

Veloscenic is one of France's most popular long-distance cycle routes. It links Paris via Versailles, Chartres and Alencon, to the incredible Mont St-Michel. It also takes in some of northern France's finest scenery, passing through the Chevreuse Valley, the Perche, Normandy Maine and the Bocage Normand. Following numerous traffic-free trails and many miles of quiet, rural roads it let's you enjoy four UNESCO World Heritage sites and three regional nature parks. This guide includes all you need to enjoy the route to the full; maps, directions, alternative route options, what to see, accommodation and much more.

The first in a series of themed cycle guides to the Lake District. Family Cycle Rides outlines a series of family-friendly cycle rides suitable for family groups with young riders. The routes avoid busy roads, with as much traffic-free riding as possible, include cafe stops and picnic spots, along with points of interest along the way. Family Cycle Rides in the Lake District gives families with young riders a series of expertly chosen cycle routes in the Lake District National Park in an easy-to-use pocket-book format. With Ordnance Survey mapping, clear route directions and professional photography throughout, this little guide book aims to guide and inspire family groups to experience some of the most enjoyable family cycling in the district. Featured rides include: Windermere & Wray Castle; Tarn Hows Loop; Kentmere Valley; Cartmel & the coast; Great Langdale; Eskdale Trail; Tilberthwaite & Little Langdale; Threlkeld Railway; Thirlmere shore; Buttermere Loop; Ennerdale Loop.

Winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award 2022 THE TIMES SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 A FINANCIAL TIMES BEST SPORTS BOOK OF 2022 A WATERSTONES BEST SPORTS BOOK OF 2022 'A marvellous book' Maxine Peake Cyclist Beryl Burton dominated her sport much as her male contemporary Eddy Merckx, with a longevity that surpasses sporting legends like Muhammad Ali and Serena Williams. Practically invincible in time trials, Burton - also known as BB - finished as Best All-Rounder for 25 years and broke the record for the '12-hour' endurance race; an achievement unrivalled to this day. She won multiple world titles, but her achievements were limited by discrimination from the cycling authorities. Yet she carried on winning, beating men and - infamously - competing against her own daughter, whilst working full-time on a Yorkshire farm and running a household. With previously unseen material and through extensive interviews with family, friends, rivals and fellow sporting giants, Jeremy Wilson peels back the layers to reveal one of the most overlooked, yet compelling characters in cycling history.

The maps are all produced at a scale of 1:100 000 showing important features including the National cycle Network. Sections on road, off road and traffic free are all shown in differing colours along with their route number. Other roads and their classification are shown enabling you to link rides or explore sections and discover new routes at home or further afield. Facilities such as toilets, pubs, accommodation, bike shops, repair stations and railway stations are all shown. The mapping also has relief shading giving you a clear picture of the terrain (and steepness of any hills) you will encounter. Scale: 100 000 (10mm = 1 Km, 16mm = 1 Mile) Folded size: 163mm x 105mm Unfolded: 650mm x 800mm Tear and water-resistant paper Double sided

Bob Addy OLY won the 1963 British National Road Championship, represented England at the 1962 Commonwealth Games and later, Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the 1964 Olympics. He went on to represent Great Britain in well over 100 races including many of most prestigious events in the cycling calendar, including the 55th Tour de France. 'Retiring' to Australia after his competitive days were thought to be behind him, he went on to become a National Veteran series Time Trial, Criterium and Road Race Champion. Always vehemently against the doping that was known to be widespread in the sport he instead established training regimes that were so hard and tough he was known throughout the sport as, 'The Driller'.

Written by the author of London’s most popular cycling blog and using years of experience and contributions from readers, it offers more than 30 leisurely routes covering both inner and outer London. Each itinerary is described in detail with a series of points of interest also pinpointed on an accompanying route map. Boxed information with each route shows at-a-glance the start point, likely duration, and some suggestions for where to eat and drink along the way. The book also covers important practical information on cycling, such as choosing the right bike for your style of cycling; tips on urban cycling, social cycling, and cycling with children; and guidance on security and insurance as well as information on accessories and clothing. This best selling guide to cycling in London is completely updated with new routes, maps, and colour photographs. It also includes full details of Santander Cycles, London's public bike sharing scheme. 

By a winner of the Stanford Dolman Award for Travel Writing "Sayarer is a precise and passionate writer . . . We need writers who will go all the way for a story, and tell it with fire. Sayarer is a marvellous example" HORATIO CLARE On the eve of its centenary year and elections that will shape the coming generations, Julian Emre Sayarer sets out to cycle across Türkiye, from the Aegean coast to the Armenian border. Meeting Turkish farmers and workers, Syrian refugees and Russians avoiding conscription, the journey brings to life a living, breathing, cultural tapestry of the place where Asia, Africa and Europe converge. The result is a love letter to a country and its neighbours - one that offers a clear-eyed view of Türkiye and its place in a changing world. Yet the route is also marked by tragedy, as Sayarer cycles along a major fault line just months before one of the most devastating earthquakes in the region's modern history. Always engaged with the big historical and political questions that inform so much of his writing, Sayarer uses his bicycle and the roadside encounters it allows to bring everything back to the human level. At the end of his journey we are left with a deeper understanding of the country, as well as the essential and universal nature of political power, both in Türkiye and closer to home.

Best Rail Trails Northern California is a directory to the top rail trails throughout Northern California. Written by a local author with expert knowledge of the region, this easy-to-use book provides mile-by-mile descriptions of the most popular rural and urban rail trails in Northern California. Readers are provided with all the information they need to experience the best rail trails in the area, including trail maps, descriptions of the trails and things to see and do along the way.

Explore Norfolk by bike with this laminated, waterproof Norfolk map. With 24 circular, clearly-marked routes this easy-to-use map will help you discover the best of the Norfolk along the quietest country lanes. Norfolk provides some of the greatest scenic interest in Britain with its dark forests of Breckland, rolling chalklands of the north west, the unique watery patch of the Norfolk Broads and a stunning coastline. It is also one of the flattest counties and our circular routes have been chosen to explore the quiet lanes linking the isolated and picturesque villages and places of interest. This is ideal cycling territory for families wanting a day out as well as the committed touring cyclists. Our Norfolk Cycling Country Lanes map includes: * Traffic-free family routes - starting at just 1 mile, this selection of traffic-free family routes includes Bacton Wood, Thetford Forest and Bure Valley Railway and Path * National Cycle Network routes - the linked series of traffic-free paths and traffic-calmed roads being developed across the UK * Our personal favourites - we've explored every corner of this beautiful county to bring you the best circular routes to make the most of your weekend whether you fancy a lazy meander or a full-on tour These circular routes are all clearly marked on the map and designed to follow the quietest country lanes and to introduce you to the best of Norfolk.

An hilarious tale about an epic event, written from a unique perspective. To be able to appreciate the story, the reader needs to be young at heart, have a vivid imagination and a love for adventure. If that sounds like you, join the writer on his journey, and experience his daily ups and downs with him. The Tour Aotearoa is a mountain bike ‘brevet’ (a timed, long-distance cycling event) covering the length of New Zealand. It starts at the most northern point of the North Island, Cape Reinga, and finishes at Stirling Point, just south of Bluff at the bottom of the South Island. The Tour is held biennially and requires participants to follow a set route covering 3,000 km which consists of existing mountain bike trails scattered throughout the country and connected by back country roads. The Tour is unsupported, so participants carry their own gear. To be awarded the brevet, the riders need to cover the full distance within 30 days. The writer took part in the 2018 edition of the Tour. His experience was different from what he expected. He encountered all types of challenges, from getting lost to physical ailments, serious weather events and loneliness. In between he had plenty of time to contemplate and let his thoughts and imagination run free. It helped him pass the time. He was seen late at night, furiously hammering away on his laptop, regardless of how tired he was, reliving the events and contemplations of the day. It helped him make sense of his journey and how it fitted into the complex world we live in. He called it his ‘administration’.

Plunge down steep, rugged singletrack, relax along leisurely lakeside trails, or travel off-road through Virginia’s scenic horse and wine country with Mountain Biking Virginia. Local mountain biker Martín Fernández shows both novice and experienced cyclists how to get out of the gridlock and into the woods. Look inside to find: ·Detailed ride descriptions ·GPS coordinates ·Full-color photos throughout ·Tips on riding, trip preparation, and bicycle maintenance ·Accurate directions, difficulty ratings, trail contacts, and more Wherever you ride and whatever your skill level, let Mountain Biking Virginia be your guide to this mountain biking paradise.

Guidebook to the Way of the Roses, a 170-mile coast-to-coast cycle route across Lancashire and Yorkshire. The three-day journey (alternative two, four and five day itineraries are also outlined) begins in Morecambe and finishes in Bridlington, linking scenic country lanes, minor roads and traffic-free cycle paths. Six excellent day rides, located in the vicinity of the main route, are also described. Clear and concise route description is accompanied by 1:100K mapping and gradient profiles, guaranteeing problem-free navigating. Also included is handy advice on practicalities such as preparation, equipment, accommodation and travel logistics to and from the start and finish of the route. A challenge within the reach of cyclists of all abilities and a satisfying traverse across country, the Way of the Roses takes in idyllic villages such as Burnsall, Pocklington and Settle, castles and cathedrals including York, Ripon abbey and prehistoric sites, along with stunning natural features such as the Three Peaks, Brimham Rocks and Flamborough Head.

The Pony Express has a hold on the American imagination wildly out of proportion to its actual contribution to the history and development of the West. It lasted less than eighteen months—about the amount of time it took author Scott Alumbaugh to plan and ride the route—and utterly failed by every measure of success attributed to it. The only reason it did not fade out of public consciousness, as did the far more successful Butterfield mail, is publicity. In the Pony’s case, a thirty-year campaign of publicity mounted by Buffalo Bill Cody, who mislead the public by claiming to have been a Pony Express rider, and lied outright by claiming to have made the longest Pony Express run. More than anyone, Buffalo Bill kept the legend alive by including a Pony Express segment throughout the run of his Wild West show. But while the Pony Express may be among the least significant developments of its era, it is the most iconic. One can’t really understand the Pony Express—what it stood for, what it accomplished, why it came about at all—without understanding the far more interesting historical milieu from which it grew: Three wars (Mexican, Utah, and Paiute); two gold rushes (California and Pike’s Peak); the overland emigration of hundreds of thousands to Oregon and California; the exodus of tens of thousands of Mormons to Utah. On the Pony Express Trail: One Man's Bikepacking Journey to Discover History from a Different Kind of Saddle recounts the author’s experience bikepacking the Pony Express Trail over five weeks during June and July 2021, and uses the trail as a prism through which to survey a wide spectrum of mid-1800s historical events. Sixty-two-year-old Alumbaugh rode the Pony Express Bikepacking Route from St. Joseph, MO to Salt Lake City, UT, over 1,400 miles, mostly off-road, sometimes through very remote territory. The narrative follows his day-to-day experiences and impressions: the challenges, the sites he visited, the country he rode through, and interactions with the people he met.

Road Biking(TM) Minnesota features forty carefully designed rides throughout the state, from Grand Portage in the northeast corner to Fairmont in the south and everywhere in between. Local cyclist Russ Lowthian provides a sampling of the state's diverse offerings, including rides along the Mississippi River, amid lush farmlands, through the Minnesota River Valley, around crystal-clear lakes, and along Lake Superior's picturesque shoreline.For more than twenty-five years, FalconGuide(R) has set the standard for outdoor recreation guidebooks. Written by top outdoors experts and enthusiasts, each guide invites you to experience the endless adventure and rugged beauty of the great outdoors.
Look inside to find:
GPS-compatible, 3-D shaded relief maps
Rides for every fitness level and ability, from an easy 28-mile ramble to a
challenging 118-mile classic
Detailed information about each ride, including directions, length, terrain,
traffic conditions, and road hazards Vivid descriptions of points of interestOptions that allow riders to create longer or shorter rides

The maps are all produced at a scale of 1:100 000 showing important features including the National cycle Network. Sections on road, off road and traffic free are all shown in differing colours along with their route number. Other roads and their classification are shown enabling you to link rides or explore sections and discover new routes at home or further afield. Facilities such as toilets, pubs, accommodation, bike shops, repair stations and railway stations are all shown. The mapping also has relief shading giving you a clear picture of the terrain (and steepness of any hills) you will encounter. Scale: 100 000 (10mm = 1 Km, 16mm = 1 Mile) Folded size: 163mm x 105mm Unfolded: 650mm x 800mm Tear and water-resistant paper Double sided

**SHORTLISTED FOR THE SUNDAY TIMES SPORTS BOOK AWARDS 2023** 'Full of delightful anecdotes and interviews and fascinating historical tales' Mail on Sunday A panoramic portrait of the wonderous vehicle whose passenger is also its engine. A toy, a tool, a liberator, or complete nuisance: the bicycle has been many things to many people over the decades, yet it endures as the most popular form of transport in the world. How has such a simple machine achieved so much? Combining history, travelogue and memoir, Jody Rosen reshapes our understanding of this ubiquitous vehicle from its invention in 1817 to its present-day renaissance as a 'green machine'. Readers meet unforgettable characters: women's suffragists who steered bikes to the barricades in the 1890s, a Bhutanese king who races mountain bikes in the Himalayas, astronauts who ride a floating bicycle in zero gravity. By examining the bicycle's past and peering into its future, Two Wheels Good forms a joyful ode to an engineering marvel of global importance. 'Funny, precise, surprising' Adam Gopnik 'Love for two-wheeled transport runs through every sentence' Economist 'Wry, rich, deeply researched' Patrick Radden Keefe

This is a handy pocket guide for the day hiker with easy-to-follow directions to the high country and peaks surrounding Telluride and beyond. Helpful maps are included at the beginning of each chapter. Many of the seventy-five hikes are illustrated with photos along with listings of elevation, distance, time, and ease of trails to help travelers through their journey.

Explore 44 of the best rail-trails and multiuse pathways across two states. All around the country, unused railroad corridors have been converted to public multiuse trails. Here, the experts from Rails-to-Trails Conservancy present their list of 44 of the best, most highly rated rail-trails and other multiuse pathways in Iowa and Missouri. Each entry includes detailed maps, driving directions to trailheads, activity icons, and succinct descriptions. Explore the region's history by hitting the Frisco Highline Trail, retracing a 35-mile route of Harry Truman's "Whistlestop" campaign. Enjoy one of the most well-known trail art installations in the country along High Trestle Trail. Meander along farmlands and forests on the 21-mile T-Bone Trail, or visit some of the region's most welcoming communities on the nearly 240-mile Katy Trail. You'll love the variety in this collection of Midwestern multiuse trails-from beautiful waterways and scenic areas to the hustle and bustle of the states' urban centers. So whether you're looking for a trail for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride with the family, or something a bit more challenging, you'll find it in this comprehensive trail guide.

In 2019, mobility experts Melissa and Chris Bruntlett began a new adventure in Delft in the Netherlands. They had packed up their family in Vancouver, BC, and moved to Delft to experience the cycling city as residents rather than as visitors. A year earlier they had become unofficial ambassadors for Dutch cities with the publication of their first book Building the Cycling City: The Dutch Blueprint for Urban Vitality. In Curbing Traffic: The Human Case for Fewer Cars in Our Lives, Melissa and Chris Bruntlett chronicle their experience living in the Netherlands and the benefits that result from treating cars as visitors rather than owners of the road. They weave their personal story with research and interviews with experts and Delft locals to help readers share the experience of living in a city designed for people. In the planning field, little attention is given to the effects that a “low-car� city can have on the human experience at a psychological and sociological level. Studies are beginning to surface that indicate the impact that external factors, such as sound, can have on our stress and anxiety levels. Or how the systematic dismantling of freedom and autonomy for children and the elderly to travel through their cities is causing isolation and dependency. In Curbing Traffic, the Bruntletts explain why these investments in improving the built environment are about more than just getting from place to place more easily and comfortably. The insights will help decision makers and advocates to better understand and communicate the human impacts of low-car cities: lower anxiety and stress, increased independence, social autonomy, inclusion, and improved mental and physical wellbeing. The book is organised around the benefits that result from thoughtfully curbing traffic, resulting in a city that is: child-friendly, connected, trusting, feminist, quiet, therapeutic, accessible, prosperous, resilient, and age-friendly. Planners, public officials, and citizen activists should have a greater understanding of the consequences that building for cars has had on communities (of all sizes). Curbing Traffic provides relatable, emotional, and personal reasons why it matters and inspiration for exporting the low-car city.