“David knows how to tell a story.” — Darren (a reader in New York)
This book isn’t just for motorcyclists. It’s for anyone who DREAMS of doing something magical but gets stuck in EXCUSES and SELF-DOUBTS. It’s for anyone who needs encouragement to do that SOMETHING they’ve always wanted to do but haven’t.
David Mixson’s *Motorcycle Dream Ride: My Alabama to Alaska Adventure* is an engaging recount of his 21-day motorcycle journey from Alabama to Alaska with his friend Mike. The book blends adventure, introspection, and practical riding tips, making it a great read for motorcycle enthusiasts and dream-chasers alike.
Mixson’s descriptive writing brings the landscapes to life, from sweeping plains to rugged Alaskan terrain, while his candid reflections on fear, friendship, and pushing personal limits add emotional depth. The camaraderie between him and Mike shines through, making the story relatable and warm. His practical advice on gear, planning, and handling challenges like weather and fatigue is a bonus for aspiring riders.
My only quibble is the black-and-white photos, which don’t fully capture the stunning visuals described. Still, the storytelling is strong, and Mixson’s passion for the journey is infectious. Because this book will inspire you to embrace your own adventures, on two wheels or otherwise, it is worthy of a 5-star rating. Recommended for anyone who loves a good road trip story with heart!
I’m a motorcyclist first, and an adventure rider second. I have been riding motorcycles for some 57 years. Just writing that gives me pause. I’ve only recently owned a n adventure bike and done that kind of riding. First across the country from Michigan to Baja California Mexico, and then all over Baja camping in the mountains, deserts and beaches with my little dog as my only companion. I’ve dreamed of riding to the southern tip of South America and back, but have not due to a lack of a riding partner. I won’t let that stop me any longer. I’m going to start planning my solo adventure right now. This book has given me the push that I needed. I’ll be 69 or 70 during this ride but I’m up to it physically and mentally. I can’t wait! P.S. This is posted in my late wife’s name, as our Amazon account was in her name.
I love stories. They compel the reader to see the unfolding plot directly through the author's eyes. David Mixson's narrative is told with that idea in mind to the point where I heard the engine(s), felt the rain and cold and shared the joy and awe that comes with riding over 8000 miles through some of the most dramatic geography in North America. Whether riding vicariously or reinforcing resolve to fulfil one's own dreams, David and Mike's journey is the perfect vehicle that accomplishes both. I would have been happy to see this ride continue for another 8000 miles but now I just sound greedy. It was a really fun ride. Thanks David.
I have read quite a few books in this genre and enjoyed this one. A two night read from start to finish. My first long road trip was in a 1986 Ninja 600, not ideal for a long journey, but being young, in my early 20's I don't recall giving that much thought.
Then again my first was about 1200 miles round trip. My only criticism is a grown man watching Big Bang, geeeeeky.
Good read, checked out some if the site. I like to have complete control, so this repeated ad nauseam pitch for government mandated electronics could at least include some of the cons.
I loved your book! my husband and I have ridden 36 states and some in Canada. your writing was spot on with our experience.
I would suggest the two of you try the ride my husband and I did first. Starting in NE Ohio, ride to Minnesota and started down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. Stayed as close to River as possible. Then across Rte 10 into Alabama and Georgia. Rode through Appalachian Mrs into Tennessee and Kentucky. Caught the Ohio River and rode north to Pittsburgh area. Great Butt buster. We did it one year after Katrina so it was challenging and extra interesting. We can also verify that the Chattahoochie gets hotter than a hoochie cootchie. Lol
I gave this book five stars because at times it felt like I was with Dave and Mike. I like making friends like they did on this trip. When I am on a ride, whether I am filling the tank or just standing and stretching before getting back on, people ,more often than not, come up to talk. And it is one of the things that I love most about riding. And this book brought out the feelings of a nice enjoyable ride. Reading it was time well spent. Thank you Dave and Mike.
I did a very similar ride from Chicago in 2013. Haider was my first stop in Alaska, but I continued on to Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay. A lot of my trip was similar, including Going to the Sun Road and the Beartooth highway. The author has an interesting style. Very readable.
David and Mike gave a great overview of what a long motorcycle tour with a friend is like. Many motorcycle touring books are a one man show. As a long haul truck driver I only made one trip to the western part of the country. And it is my dream ride to do what Mike and David have done
Reading this book jump started my following through with my own Dream Trip….at age 70. Mine isn’t as long, only from Omaha, Nebraska to the Seattle area and back. I may have to do it solo which won’t be as much fun….but may make it better. Who knows?
Buy this book. You will enjoy his style. I joined his online smart cycling group too!!
Loved this book . I'm starting to plan a trip around the country next spring and it was very helpful to read about someone e else's experiences. The author has a great writing style and sense of humor.
A great travelogue of two friends and their dream ride to Alaska. Even if you are not a motorcyclist you will like the book, if you are a motorcyclist, you will love it!
My husband and I ride. I have caught the long motorcycle trip bug in a bad way and reading this adventure has only made it worse. So far we've taken week long trips but I'm getting out my notepad and dreaming big. Thanks for the inspiration!
Entertaining storytelling. Engaging even for those who don’t ride motorcycles. I’m now trying to plan my big dream. I wish I had a best friend like that.
I thoroughly enjoyed Motorcycle Dream Ride. David Mixson did a great job describing his, and friend Mike's marathon ride from Arkansas to Hyder, Alaska.
a Very Good Read - If you love Riding a Motorcycle, Read this book
A well written chronicle of an excellent motorcycle trip by two good friends. As an avid rider I enjoyed the details provided by the author and his ability to articulate what such a ride meant to him, his riding partner, and impart some of that joy on to the reader. Highly recommend this book.