Whether you’re an avid cycler, or just starting out, there are plenty of great stories, people, and ideas written in books that are sure to change the way you think of cycling. To many people, riding your bike is just an activity, or a method of transportation – but to others, it is a lifestyle or an adventure.

We’ve compiled some of the best books all about cycling – where to do it, how to train, incredible human feats, the history of the sport, and more.  Reading these will surely teach you, surprise you, and even inspire you to ride further.

1. The Man Who Cycled the World by Mark Beaumont

This is the story of how Mark Beaumont set the Guinness World Record of cycling the 18,000 miles around the world in 194 days and 17 hours.He tells stories of how he managed to beat the previous record while sharing some stories of his youth, and riding across Italy for charity.

2. Where There’s a Will: Hope, Grief and Endurance in a Cycle Race Across a Continent by Emily Chappell

This book shares the harrowing story of Emily Chappell, who pushed herself to the limits in trying to cycle across Europe unassisted.  She takes you through her journey of climbing and overcoming mountains, both literally and figuratively. 

3. Epic Bike Rides of the World by Lonely Planet

For those who are world travellers and adventurers, this book might inspire your next cycling trip. Lonely Planet offers 200 of the most amazing and scenic bike routes the world has to offer.

4. The Official History of the Tour de France by Serge Laget

If you’re a fan of the Tour de France or races in general, this insightful book gives you all the details of this incredible event and how it all started, from its early days to now.It also doubles as a great coffee table book with its plethora of photographs.

5. The Cycling Chef: Recipes for Performance and Pleasure by Alan Murchison

Any good cycler will tell you food and diet are imperative to good performance. Alan is a Michelin-starred chef who cooks for British Cycling athletes - he also happens to be a champion athlete himself. You’ll find 65 great recipes for tasty meals fit for the professionals.   

Here are some more if you are interested from bikeradar.com.

Happy reading and biking!