Reviewed by Bryna Hallam
By Laura Robinson,
Illustrated by Ramón K. Pérez
$19.99 CAD Tundra Books, first edition, 2010
80 pages
For ages nine and up
There are people who ride bikes, and then there are cyclists. Any book that lists spandex shorts with a seamless chamois crotch area as the first item in the Dress for the Ride section is probably aimed at the latter.
But that’s not to say Cyclist BikeList won’t appeal to other, perhaps more casual, young riders. The book is packed with information and fun facts, and covers everything from the history of bicycles, to choosing a bike and fueling yourself up for long rides.
The illustrations are lively and the writing informative and engaging, communicating a deep knowledge and passion for the sport – not surprising given author Laura Robinson’s background as a competitive cyclist and coach.
The chapter on sizing a bike provides valuable information for anyone who pedals around, as does the one on safety. The book is formatted to allow neophyte readers to jump around from section to section, according to their interest; the more technical information can be left to their cyclist friends.
