The 11 cycling books any cycling aficionado should read

We've made a list of the best books for any cycling aficionado. There are many cycling books, from history, biographies, about improving your performance and many more. Here is a selection of books we've read or we have in the shelve to read. Let us know what you think and share any recommendation!

Magic Spanner by Carlton Kirby

Carlton Kirby spent 25 years commentating on some of the biggest cycling event in the world. And as a result he has quite some thing to share! With this book, Carlton does a recollection of stories from different races and people he has met. These tales are delivered in a humorous and witty style, making this book a really light-hearted and fun read.

This is a book can be enjoyed by cyclists and non-cyclists; it will make you laugh and is a perfect easy read.

Tomorrow, we ride by Jean Bobet

Jean Bobet was a professional French road racing cyclist who competed in the 1950s and 1960s. He is best known for helping his brother, Louison Bobet, winning the Tour de France in several occasions

Tomorrow, we ride pay homage to one of the greats of French cycling. Louison Bobet victories at the Tour de France were groundbreaking, and his story is an inspiration to all cyclists.

Full Gas by Peter Cossins

Full Gas won The Telegraph Sports Book Awards Cycling Book in 2019. With this book, Peter Cossins looks at the tactics of the professional peloton and the strategis of professional team principals during some of the most important races, like the Tour de France.

If you're looking for a book that can help you gain a deeper understanding of professional cycling, then Full Gas is definitely worth checking out.

The secret race: Inside the hidden world of the Tour de France by Daniel Coyle and Tyler Hamilton

It's one of the best cycling books out there. It gives an inside look at the world of professional cycling, and how doping has been a part of it for many years.

The book is well researched and written, and gives a great insight into the world of professional cycling. If you are a fan of cycling, or just want to learn more about the sport, this is a great book to read.

The Rider by Tim Krabbé

The Rider by Tim Krabbé is a classic cycling book that any true fan of the sport should read. This story begins at the very start of the Tour de Mont Aigoual, ready to race his rivals through the mountains of Central France. Over the course of the 150 pages that follows, Krabbé captures, the entirety of the cycling experience getting under your skin as no other book does. “Always attack as late as you can, but before the others do.”

Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle, by Dervla Murphy

In "Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle", Dervla Murphy chronicles her unbelievable journey from Ireland to India by bicycle. Along the way, she encounters all sorts of interesting people and experiences a wide range of cultures. This is an inspiring and fascinating account of one woman's solo journey across the world.

Bicycle: The History, by David V Herlihy

Bicycle: The History is a fascinating read that traces the history of the bicycle from its humble beginnings as a mode of transportation for the wealthy to its current status as a popular recreational vehicle. Herlihy does an excellent job of detailing the evolution of the bicycle and how it has impacted society over the years. He also covers some of the more famous cyclists and cycling events throughout history. This is a must-read for any cycling enthusiast.

Revolutions: How Women Changed the World on Two Wheels, by Hannah Ross

Women have been involved in cycling since its earliest days. In the late 19th century, as bicycles became increasingly popular, women began to use them for transportation and recreation. By the early 20th century, women were competing in races and touring on bikes.

In the past few years, there has been a resurgence of interest in women's cycling, both as a competitive sport and as a way to improve fitness and health. This has led to the publication of several books about women's cycling, including "Revolutions: How Women Changed the World on Two Wheels" by Hannah Ross.

Ross tells the story of how women have shaped the world of cycling, both as athletes and as advocates. She profiles some of the most influential women in cycling history, including Beryl Burton, who broke world records in racing; Frances Willard, who campaigned for women's rights on her bicycle; and Rachel DeVore, who started a all-women's cross-country race.

Ross also discusses the challenges that women face in cycling today, such as the lack of female cyclists at the professional level and the lack of support for women's racing. But she remains optimistic about the future of women's cycling, thanks to initiatives like Velo Girls (a California-based club for female cyclists) and programs like Dora Rides (which encourages young girls to ride bikes).

Whether you're a woman who loves to ride or simply someone who is interested in learning more about women's

Put Me Back on My Bike, In Search of Tom Simpson, by William Fotheringham

The book chronicles the life of British cyclist Tom Simpson, who was one of the most successful cyclists of his era. Simpson was a world champion cyclist and won numerous prestigious races, including the Tour de France. However, his career was cut short when he died during the 1967 Tour de France while climbing the Mont Ventoux.

Fotheringham's book is a well-researched and detailed account of Simpson's life and career. It also provides insights into the competitive world of professional cycling during Simpson's era. Put Me Back on My Bike is an excellent read for any cycling enthusiast or fan of Tom Simpson.

The Descent, by Thomas Dekker

Few cycling books have been as well-received as Thomas Dekker's "The Descent". The book tells the story of Dekker's own career in the sport, from his beginnings as a young Dutch rider to his eventual retirement.

Dekker is brutally honest about the dark side of professional cycling, and doesn't shy away from discussing the doping that was so prevalent during his career. He also talks about the mental and physical toll that racing took on him, and how it eventually led to his decision to retire.

Racing Through the Dark, by David Millar

In Racing Through the Dark, David Millar opens up about his career as a professional cyclist, and the dark side of the sport that he experienced first-hand. From doping and corruption, to dealing with the death of a teammate, Millar doesn't hold back in this candid memoir.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is a wide range of cycling books available to suit any cycling aficionado. Add comments to suggest any books we should add to the list! See you on the road.