A Biker's Tale

by John Hellemans

An hilarious tale about an epic event, written from a unique perspective. To be able to appreciate the story, the reader needs to be young at heart, have a vivid imagination and a love for adventure. If that sounds like you, join the writer on his journey, and experience his daily ups and downs with him. The Tour Aotearoa is a mountain bike ‘brevet’ (a timed, long-distance cycling event) covering the length of New Zealand. The Tour is held biennially and requires participants to follow a set route covering 3,000 km which consists of existing mountain bike trails scattered throughout the country and connected by back country roads. The Tour is unsupported, so participants carry their own gear. To be awarded the brevet, the riders need to cover the full distance within 30 days. The writer took part in the 2018 edition of the Tour. His experience was different from what he expected. He encountered all types of challenges, from getting lost to physical ailments, serious weather events and loneliness. In between he had plenty of time to contemplate and let his thoughts and imagination run free.

152 pages, Paperback

Published August 8, 2021

Reviews

[Melanie Fisher]

A pretty fast book to read - I think I finished it in about 2 hours. Always interested to read about the experiences of other people undertaking adventures that I would like to do. The author pedals through adverse situations such as weather and pain. Very interesting for anyone interested in undertaking the Tour Aotearoa long distance cycle trail (as part of the brevet - timed - race, or not).

[Paul Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read that gives an insight into John’s journey on one of the worlds great bikepacking routes, and a useful sense of the experience of this ride for all that undertake it. Nice insights into the author’s thought processes; having shared parts of the route with him this was interesting to read.

[Tania · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wry Dutch humour adds to my enjoyment of the book. The photos in it are stunning as well.