The pen is mightier than the sword. The bicycle is at least as mighty as the pen. Thereby, a pen writing words about bicycles is well, a lot better than a pile of swords.
While your local big box bookseller has shelves full of self-help/how-to guides to faster crits, bigger calves, and better performance, there's a dearth of conversational writing for commuters. That's why we've collected 3 diverse, but easy reads for citizen cyclists. Humor instead of hydration. Photography instead of fitness.
Bike Tribes A Field Guide to North American Cyclists
Illustration by Danica Novgordoff
The cycling universe is big and ever expanding. The bike, like the sun, is at the center of that pedal-powered universe. But often, the humble bike is where the similarities between riders begin and end.
Bike Tribes explores the taxonomy of cycling's sub-genres with humor, insight, and illustration. It's witty and relatable, relying on satire and experience to introduce a broad array of riders. You'll find yourself in the pages, as well as your neighbor and co-worker. You'll chuckle at their caricature, as well as at yours. 200 pages, hardback, complemented by original illustration.
I Love My Bike
I Love My Bike is a photographic celebration of riders (and their rides), captured all over the USA. Printed in full color photographs on every page it's a coffee table book at coffee bean prices. I Love My Bike introduces long-time messengers, hardcore roadies, casual commuters, weekend day-trippers and more all connected by a love for the bike.
I love My Bike is best experienced as a "flipper." Pick it up, open at random to any spot, and flip for a while. You'll see smiling faces and a diverse array of bikes. Put it down when you're ready to ride. Repeat at will. 160 pages, softback.
Bikenomics: How Bicycling Can Save the Economy
If you're serious, or just seriously interested, about the impact your bike has on your wallet and your community, then Elly Blue's fascinating primer is a must.
Bikenomics investigates the real costs incurred by individuals and cities in existing transportation systems, and tells the story of those relying on two-wheeled transportation. This fresh perspective, on how people get from place to place, reveals the multifaceted North American bicycle movement and its challenges, successes, and visions for the future. Elly Blue writes for citizen cyclists like you, not policy makers or traffic engineers, interested in a deeper understanding of what effect commuting has on the individual and the city. Paperback, 192 pages.