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A Fast Bike to Byzantium
The year is 1986; communism and the Iron Curtain lie across his path, but Andy is lured on his solo motorcycle journey by the allure of the East and the mystique of distant Istanbul.
Join Andy on his Suzuki GS1000 as he rides across Europe to reach the very edge of Asia. Witty, informative and poignant, the story tells of travel in an era long gone, a time when the USSR was the largest country in the world and the threat of nuclear war seemed inevitable, when smartphones, GPS and the internet were still a distant dream.
Austrian storms, dead horses, Hungarian border guards, scary Yugoslavians, tortoises and Bulgarian austerity are only a few of the obstacles he must overcome to reach the sounds and scents of the ancient heart of the Byzantium empire.
Join Andy on his Suzuki GS1000 as he rides across Europe to reach the very edge of Asia. Witty, informative and poignant, the story tells of travel in an era long gone, a time when the USSR was the largest country in the world and the threat of nuclear war seemed inevitable, when smartphones, GPS and the internet were still a distant dream.
Austrian storms, dead horses, Hungarian border guards, scary Yugoslavians, tortoises and Bulgarian austerity are only a few of the obstacles he must overcome to reach the sounds and scents of the ancient heart of the Byzantium empire.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2023
128 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Andy C Wareing
25 books26 followersAlong with many like-minded souls, 2020 was the year I finally broke free of the constraints of life in corporate America. Fueled by a renewed passion and creativity I decided to pursue my new life as a full-time author.
Originally from Southport in England my wife, Paula, and I, lived and worked in the USA for 15 wonderful years, and then moved to Spain to enjoy a quiet life in the endless sunshine of the Mediterranean. Instead, we ended up embroiled in the tribulations of the pandemic. I wrote and self-published my first book “Mistakes Were Made” after that (mis) adventure.
At heart always British, we loved living in the U.S.A but will never vocalize the American pronunciations of basil, banana, or tomato. We now live with our two dogs in leafy Somerset, land of apples, cider, and weather so perpetually wet, ‘wellies’ are considered formal wear.
Please keep me away from the benefits office by leaving a review on Goodreads or your local Amazon store, and follow my blog here:
https://andycwareing.com/blog/
Originally from Southport in England my wife, Paula, and I, lived and worked in the USA for 15 wonderful years, and then moved to Spain to enjoy a quiet life in the endless sunshine of the Mediterranean. Instead, we ended up embroiled in the tribulations of the pandemic. I wrote and self-published my first book “Mistakes Were Made” after that (mis) adventure.
At heart always British, we loved living in the U.S.A but will never vocalize the American pronunciations of basil, banana, or tomato. We now live with our two dogs in leafy Somerset, land of apples, cider, and weather so perpetually wet, ‘wellies’ are considered formal wear.
Please keep me away from the benefits office by leaving a review on Goodreads or your local Amazon store, and follow my blog here:
https://andycwareing.com/blog/
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 1, 2025
Another extraordinary adventure that whisks you away from everyday life!
Andy Wareing takes you on a thrilling journey through Europe, enduring the brutalities of life behind the Iron Curtain, the rich spices of Asia, and the breathtaking beauty of the Adriatic coast. I particularly enjoyed his perspective on Yugoslavia, having visited a year later myself, and the destination—Constantinople—has always fascinated me since childhood.
A captivating and immersive read!
Andy Wareing takes you on a thrilling journey through Europe, enduring the brutalities of life behind the Iron Curtain, the rich spices of Asia, and the breathtaking beauty of the Adriatic coast. I particularly enjoyed his perspective on Yugoslavia, having visited a year later myself, and the destination—Constantinople—has always fascinated me since childhood.
A captivating and immersive read!
January 24, 2024
A great adventure
A tale of an Englishman's adventure to Byzantium or as it is known today, Turkey. An engaging story of his travels thru Europe and the soon to be freed communist states of the former USSR. If you like the tales of motorcycle travelers, your will find this one enjoyable. I can't wait to read his next book!
A tale of an Englishman's adventure to Byzantium or as it is known today, Turkey. An engaging story of his travels thru Europe and the soon to be freed communist states of the former USSR. If you like the tales of motorcycle travelers, your will find this one enjoyable. I can't wait to read his next book!
June 23, 2024
Fab book, well written and takes you along with him on his journey. Very much like a conversation of experiences along the way. I shall definitely read more of Andy's book, loved the escapism it offered me and brought back memories I experienced in my travels into Europe around the same time when thing where different.
November 14, 2023
I'm not a big reader and often get bored and don't finish a book, but I found this book easy to read and interesting enough to want to keep reading. Now looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 24, 2023
very well written.
I enjoyed this book. Now I will be looking up the history of Yugoslavia and all its countries and religions. A very interesting region. The author has both wit and wisdom.
I enjoyed this book. Now I will be looking up the history of Yugoslavia and all its countries and religions. A very interesting region. The author has both wit and wisdom.
September 8, 2024
Not a long book but a thoroughly engaging trip through Europe to Turkey and back before the end of the Cold War. Made me laugh quite a lot at the nature of his descriptions and his dry northern humour
November 8, 2024
great read
I loved this book. The author is about a year older than me and I spent much of my childhood in some of the places he visited. Brought back some fabulous memories.
Also, as a lifelong lover of all things motorcycle, and an enthusiastic traveller, I felt like I’d been taken on an epic road trip.
Now for the next one!
I loved this book. The author is about a year older than me and I spent much of my childhood in some of the places he visited. Brought back some fabulous memories.
Also, as a lifelong lover of all things motorcycle, and an enthusiastic traveller, I felt like I’d been taken on an epic road trip.
Now for the next one!
May 26, 2024
Good account of a classic era and youth.
Thoroughly enjoyed. Reminded me of similar epics of my own. An easy and informative read with interesting history of a difficult time.
Thoroughly enjoyed. Reminded me of similar epics of my own. An easy and informative read with interesting history of a difficult time.
October 19, 2024
A really engrossing read
Absolutely amazing, I’m not a big book reader but I really couldn’t put this down. Being a biker most of my life and also a bit of an adventurer I found this an incredibly deep and wonderful read..
Absolutely amazing, I’m not a big book reader but I really couldn’t put this down. Being a biker most of my life and also a bit of an adventurer I found this an incredibly deep and wonderful read..
April 15, 2024
Hello friends, there is a new addition to the Tiger Coward Adventure Motorcycle Library: A Fast Bike to Byzantium by Andy C Wareing.
My executive summary is that this is a great travel journal of a young man traveling through the communist East Bloc on a vacation. This is an easy read. It is 117 pages of great stories and good laughs as the author works his way across Europe to reach Turkey.
I started reading this book one evening and finished it the next day. It is so compelling and well written that I didn't want to put it down.
Normally, I list 5 things that I like most about a book, but this is a short read, so I will stick to 3.
1. The Cold War era.
For clarity, it is not that I liked the Cold War era; it is that I have conveniently blocked it from my memory. This book takes place in 1986 and challenges my memories of that time period.
I can't recall reading any Eastern Bloc non-fiction literature from the era and certainly not a travel journal. Of course, I remember what was taught in high school, but I now know that most of that was fiction. That is what makes this book so unique.
This story was captivating and illuminating in the depiction of the Eastern Bloc countries and challenged preconceived notions of a young westerner. For the record, I had many of the same preconceived notions myself. Maybe I still do.
2. Pre-internet travel.
I love hearing stories about travel before the internet and gps. It is not that I would want to travel without out either nowadays. It is just so incredibly interesting to read about the surprise discoveries that people make when they didn't have the resources that we have today.
Of course, a complete snafu or two because of the same also makes for dramatic reading.
This book has both, and that makes it such a fun read.
3. The British Moto Traveller.
This is, of course, a motorcycle adventure story, and, as expected, there is plenty of excitement brought about from falling asleep while riding, mechanical and gear failure, and other escapades.
What I like most was Wareing's jealous comparisons between British and European adventure riders. Because Britian isn't in Europe? Like many of the stories in this adventure, the comparisons are hilariously described and deeply impactful.
This probably isn't all that clear for you, so you will have to buy the book and figure out what I am saying.
In conclusion, I liked this book a lot but I don't recommend buying it. Instead, I would buy The Fast Bike Adventures, which includes this book and the next two adventures. I wish I had done that because one book by Andy C Wareing is not enough.
Ps. I am currently reading The Higdon Chornicles by Robert Higdon
My executive summary is that this is a great travel journal of a young man traveling through the communist East Bloc on a vacation. This is an easy read. It is 117 pages of great stories and good laughs as the author works his way across Europe to reach Turkey.
I started reading this book one evening and finished it the next day. It is so compelling and well written that I didn't want to put it down.
Normally, I list 5 things that I like most about a book, but this is a short read, so I will stick to 3.
1. The Cold War era.
For clarity, it is not that I liked the Cold War era; it is that I have conveniently blocked it from my memory. This book takes place in 1986 and challenges my memories of that time period.
I can't recall reading any Eastern Bloc non-fiction literature from the era and certainly not a travel journal. Of course, I remember what was taught in high school, but I now know that most of that was fiction. That is what makes this book so unique.
This story was captivating and illuminating in the depiction of the Eastern Bloc countries and challenged preconceived notions of a young westerner. For the record, I had many of the same preconceived notions myself. Maybe I still do.
2. Pre-internet travel.
I love hearing stories about travel before the internet and gps. It is not that I would want to travel without out either nowadays. It is just so incredibly interesting to read about the surprise discoveries that people make when they didn't have the resources that we have today.
Of course, a complete snafu or two because of the same also makes for dramatic reading.
This book has both, and that makes it such a fun read.
3. The British Moto Traveller.
This is, of course, a motorcycle adventure story, and, as expected, there is plenty of excitement brought about from falling asleep while riding, mechanical and gear failure, and other escapades.
What I like most was Wareing's jealous comparisons between British and European adventure riders. Because Britian isn't in Europe? Like many of the stories in this adventure, the comparisons are hilariously described and deeply impactful.
This probably isn't all that clear for you, so you will have to buy the book and figure out what I am saying.
In conclusion, I liked this book a lot but I don't recommend buying it. Instead, I would buy The Fast Bike Adventures, which includes this book and the next two adventures. I wish I had done that because one book by Andy C Wareing is not enough.
Ps. I am currently reading The Higdon Chornicles by Robert Higdon
October 6, 2024
“A fast Bike to Byzantium” by Andy C Wareing
It is 1986, Europe or most of Eastern Europe was still under the watchful eye of the USSR, so travelling in or through certain parts of Europe was interesting.
1986 also meant no single currency, so lots of money exchanging going on country to country making sure you don’t change too much or have too little.
But it was in 1986 that Andy on his Suzuki GS1000G decided he wanted to go to Istanbul in Turkey, previously called Constantinople, and before that Byzantium. His journey takes you Holland, Germany, Bulgaria, Hungry, Serbia, Croatia.
So as you read this book, you follow Andy's travels through western/eastern Europe, meeting other riders sometimes joining them sometimes just having a quick or not so quick hello,
you also get a sense of the difference between the UK and the rest of Europe at that time, when some of the people he meets are all on shiny new bikes pm their own journeys across Europe.
While Andy is on the look-out for cheap affordable camp sites or fields to camp overnight. And even in those dark times in Europe you realise that people are friendly and helpful and not all like what is portrayed in the press.
One of the things I liked was how Andy gives you a history lesson of how Europe and its neighbours were in 1986, but in a this is what I saw, at the time I was there type of way.
This is not a hard read, you do not have to work at enjoying his story, you can put it down although when you pick it back up his storytelling gets your interest back quickly.
Is this book worth a place on your book shelf, real or virtual, the answer is Yes.
I will be making room for his other books, “Fast Bike Ride to North Cape” “Through the Badlands” although I may have to refer to Andy for which book is the next instalment.
It is 1986, Europe or most of Eastern Europe was still under the watchful eye of the USSR, so travelling in or through certain parts of Europe was interesting.
1986 also meant no single currency, so lots of money exchanging going on country to country making sure you don’t change too much or have too little.
But it was in 1986 that Andy on his Suzuki GS1000G decided he wanted to go to Istanbul in Turkey, previously called Constantinople, and before that Byzantium. His journey takes you Holland, Germany, Bulgaria, Hungry, Serbia, Croatia.
So as you read this book, you follow Andy's travels through western/eastern Europe, meeting other riders sometimes joining them sometimes just having a quick or not so quick hello,
you also get a sense of the difference between the UK and the rest of Europe at that time, when some of the people he meets are all on shiny new bikes pm their own journeys across Europe.
While Andy is on the look-out for cheap affordable camp sites or fields to camp overnight. And even in those dark times in Europe you realise that people are friendly and helpful and not all like what is portrayed in the press.
One of the things I liked was how Andy gives you a history lesson of how Europe and its neighbours were in 1986, but in a this is what I saw, at the time I was there type of way.
This is not a hard read, you do not have to work at enjoying his story, you can put it down although when you pick it back up his storytelling gets your interest back quickly.
Is this book worth a place on your book shelf, real or virtual, the answer is Yes.
I will be making room for his other books, “Fast Bike Ride to North Cape” “Through the Badlands” although I may have to refer to Andy for which book is the next instalment.
February 13, 2023
It's the 1980s. There is no internet, no GPS, no cell phones, no European currency (Euro) and virtually no ATMs. So if you plan to drive your motorcycle from England to Turkey, you need maps, several different currencies and visas in your passport. And a lot of guts, and luck. Oh yeah, and the USSR is still the biggest nation, and holds sway over much of Eastern Europe.
Andy, being a sensible sort of chap, decided to begin his adventure sailing from Hull. Now as Hull is the place where I was born, this endeared the book to me right from the start. I was enthralled by the different countries he visited: The Netherlands, Hungary, Bulgaria and Yugoslavia (as it then was) being just some of them. Astounded by the difficulty of translating something as seemingly simple as a road sign, when not only the language is different, but so is the alphabet. (No Google translate back then). Apprehensive at some of the situations he found himself in, particularly with armed border guards as he crossed into Soviet controlled countries. And overawed by the many kindnesses from strangers he met along the way. This is a wonderful book; it's going back in time to a totally different era, even though it's less than forty years ago. Andy's writing draws you in. This is such an easy book to read and to enjoy. I definitely recommend it.
Andy, being a sensible sort of chap, decided to begin his adventure sailing from Hull. Now as Hull is the place where I was born, this endeared the book to me right from the start. I was enthralled by the different countries he visited: The Netherlands, Hungary, Bulgaria and Yugoslavia (as it then was) being just some of them. Astounded by the difficulty of translating something as seemingly simple as a road sign, when not only the language is different, but so is the alphabet. (No Google translate back then). Apprehensive at some of the situations he found himself in, particularly with armed border guards as he crossed into Soviet controlled countries. And overawed by the many kindnesses from strangers he met along the way. This is a wonderful book; it's going back in time to a totally different era, even though it's less than forty years ago. Andy's writing draws you in. This is such an easy book to read and to enjoy. I definitely recommend it.
July 23, 2024
As you get older and look back on your motorbike exploits it is memories like those that Andy describes that come to light and bring a twinkle back into the aging cataract eyes. Meeting people, ordinary everyday folk, seems to go hand in hand when riding a bike - something unknown to car drivers!
I’m planning a trip as I finish this book, but at 73 or nearer 74years of age the sudden impulse to get up and go, with your tent tied to the bike, has to now be replaced with more thought. Distance, tiredness and a good bed are all up there. We shall see? Thankfully this book brought back good times and a will to just do it again - well at least one more time. Now on to the next adventure. 😳😳
I’m planning a trip as I finish this book, but at 73 or nearer 74years of age the sudden impulse to get up and go, with your tent tied to the bike, has to now be replaced with more thought. Distance, tiredness and a good bed are all up there. We shall see? Thankfully this book brought back good times and a will to just do it again - well at least one more time. Now on to the next adventure. 😳😳
November 15, 2024
I love travel books and especially motorcycle travels but this one didn't tick all the boxes for me. Fun story and a real adventure especially in the old eastern block countries but lacked good story telling. He writes this book a number of years after the trip and maybe for that reason it lacks the detail of the days. Also very quick trip so maybe not enough time to get into the details of each country or the people he met. Otherwise fun read.
August 20, 2024
great book
This was an informative and funny read , as a biker myself I have had a few of these things happen to me over the years , also found myself going to google maps to trace your route , thank you .
This was an informative and funny read , as a biker myself I have had a few of these things happen to me over the years , also found myself going to google maps to trace your route , thank you .
June 26, 2025
Even better than Bryson!
Warring is a great narrator and his memories of details 30 years later is amazing. Its,also a great reminder of how much Europe has changed in a short period of time.
Warring is a great narrator and his memories of details 30 years later is amazing. Its,also a great reminder of how much Europe has changed in a short period of time.
September 26, 2025
A great read
Well written and entertaining. It avoids falling into the trap of too much technical motorcycle detail but concentrates on drawing the people and his experiences humorously. A fun read!
Well written and entertaining. It avoids falling into the trap of too much technical motorcycle detail but concentrates on drawing the people and his experiences humorously. A fun read!
September 28, 2025
Great story
The story was complete in being funny , interesting, and somewhat educational about 80's Europe. It was written in a way that transformed you to the places and adventures described. If you like motorcycle trips you'll like this book. I did.
The story was complete in being funny , interesting, and somewhat educational about 80's Europe. It was written in a way that transformed you to the places and adventures described. If you like motorcycle trips you'll like this book. I did.
September 11, 2024
AFast bike to Byzantium
Brilliant read, inspired me to get a bike again! Also made me improve my geography, as I kept looking up various places mentioned. Will be reading more.
Brilliant read, inspired me to get a bike again! Also made me improve my geography, as I kept looking up various places mentioned. Will be reading more.
September 21, 2024
great travelogue from a different time
An Excellently written mini book, capturing the highs and lows of an epic journey on a shoestring, highly recommended.
Brilliant
An Excellently written mini book, capturing the highs and lows of an epic journey on a shoestring, highly recommended.
Brilliant
November 23, 2024
Really good read. Reminds me of a two wheeled Bill Bryson. I’ve ridden a Bike across the Alps to Turin after reading this I fell I’ve got to Istanbul!
May 17, 2025
Thoroughly entertaining travelog, just wish it had been longer. Will definitely be reading his others.
June 1, 2025
If you like motorcycle travel books, you’ll find this an enjoyable read & you feel like you’re with Andy.
July 6, 2025
I loved this book. it's very easy reading and I'm looking forward to Andy's other books!
August 29, 2025
Not quite enough bike stuff for bike lovers. Not quite enough travel stuff for travel lovers. Not quite well enough written for book lovers.
September 24, 2025
delivered this afternoon and read in one session. fantastic account of a journey into the unknown. did you ever find georgie and Ella?
August 5, 2024
Not something I would normally ride, but being a Biker ''Fair Weather'' I thought I would give it a go. Well Andy kept me entertained, well written, witty and nothing but admiration for his journey.
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