The Practical Cyclist: Bicycling for Real People

Mother Earth News Wiser Living

by Chip Haynes

"...with plenty of tips and advice for those who want to get back into biking even after decades have passed, "The Practical Cyclist" is a read many readers will embrace for fitness and the environment." - James. A. Cox, The Midwest Book Review  "Dust off the bike, put some air in the tires, and discover a new world that has been waiting for you. that's an easy-to-accept invitation from the author, who is a bicycle enthusiast, commuter, and self-described all-round "neighborhood bike guy" from Clearwater, Florida. the text addresses the transition into a two-wheeler mindset in an easy-to-follow format. His writing style is light enough to convince a reluctant reader to take that first spin around the block and do so eagerly and confidently. The advice is sound, too. The author encourages first-time bike commuters to resist the temptation of taking the same route they take with an automobile. "There are many roads that all, eventually, lead to the same place if you're willing to work at it,"he writes. "You want, poetically speaking, to take the road less traveled. It will make all the difference." And this book will make all the difference for a bicyclist with an open, resourceful mind and a willingness to step outside the box for an adventure on two wheels."- ForeWord Magazine "This introductory book is an easygoing ramble through the basics and joys of cycling for anyone who has just mastered riding or is returning to the bike after a long hiatus. Haynes, a commuter cyclist in Florida, aims to encourage more regular local riding and commuting with practial tips on selecting from various types of bikes; basic bike mechanics; gear and accessories. This practical, low-key approach eases the reader into integrating cycling more often into their life for pleasure or health and as an affordable, flexible, local transportation option. - Jean Chong, Momentum Magazine "First off, here's what this book is NOT; a comprehensive guide to training, repair, nutrition, racing strategy or any of that other in-depth stuff. What his book IS is a very simple, very practical and extremely humorous guide to bicycling for everyday purposes. Seasoned cyclists and hardcore commuters probably won't get much out of The Practical Cyclist other than a lot of laughs...frankly, it's just not written for the accomplished cyclers among us. But for someone just entering this wonderful world of bicycles, this book is a must read .  Let's hope this book sells a billion copies!!! - Jack "Ghost Rider" Sweeney, bikecommuters.com Riding a bicycle is something you never forget—even if the last time you owned a bike, it had playing cards pinned to the spokes. People are coming back to bicycling in droves; propelled by rising gas prices, expanding waistlines, or the allure of fancy gear, bicycling for all ages has never been more popular. The Practical Cyclist is for those who have not been actively cycling for years, or perhaps are new to the sport; it is bicycling for real people. The author recognizes that not every cyclist cares about fancy equipment and competitive riding. The book’s low-impact approach is uniquely geared to people who would like to come back to cycling but don’t know where to begin. There are many reasons for hopping back on a bike—becoming healthier, saving money, saving the environment, but mainly to have fun. The Practical Cyclist provides simple, basic information that takes the intimidation out of visiting a bike shop and

Genres: Nonfiction, Health, Unfinished

192 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2009

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun book for the an average, yes, "practical," rider. Haynes uses his bike(s) mostly for transportation and for fun, not competition, so that is the focus of the book and it's handy. He's got goofy humor throughout - and I DO mean throughout, as there seems to be a little joke on every page, which gets a wee bit tedious to read through - but that doesn't change the fact that there is good information in here for someone who wants to get back into riding his/her bicycle on a more regular basis. And no, there's not a lot to actually riding a bike, but there's good information on selecting a good bike for you (I like that he doesn't tell you one kind of bike is better than another) as well as tips on being visible on your bike - day or night, the kinds of accessories you might want to have, and the small amount of gear you'd want to carry with you on a regular basis. Nicely done!

[Leif · Rating 3 out of 5]

Practical Cyclist was pretty much exactly as described, a low-intensity conversational walk-through of the basics of biking. And, while Haynes may know a fair amount about biking (though his decorative style is indeed questionable), his jokes are pretty limp. Nevertheless, a fairly informative if not exciting book.

[Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining read, to be sure. The author tackles the subject of bicycling with a sense of wit that is refreshing. There is no technical jargon to wade through, and you'll not find instructions on how to build a wheel or how to change the oil in your mountain bike's shock absorber. The author is an old-school cyclist who shares his cycling world views from his well worn saddle.

[Hal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great read for someone wanting to get started or restarted in bicycling or cycling as it is more readily known. Chips Haynes sticks to basics and good practical tips. He interjects with a fair dose of humor and light-heartedness that makes it fun. I am a more experienced cyclist and found some good tips on simple set up adjustment and of course the practical advice that we all can use.

[digbybare · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction (reintroduction) for someone getting started or getting back into riding. Some people find the grandpa humor off-putting, but I found it rather charming (though not necessarily funny).

[Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Getting an advance copy from the author to review for Bikecommuters.com

[E Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Guide to Bicycling! Here's my interview with the author at Newcolonist.com http://www.newcolonist.com/podcasts.html

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview of the basics of bicycling (geared more towards commuting and short trips around town, I'd say), but tries too hard to be funny.

[Tom · Rating 4 out of 5]

from KCPL, due 2009.1209 returned

Excellent overview of cycling in general. Somewhat specific to DFs.

[Netzach]

Decent information but the author was trying too hard to be funny

[Jim Warnock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Funny and easy read packed with practical information for someone who enjoys riding a bicycle.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A useful overview of bikes and biking and I really liked the author's goofy writing style!

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basic.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun book. Has some good advice. Real information on sizing your bike to you. I like that he has no problem getting off his bike and walking it up a steep hill. Now I don't feel like such a wimp.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both amusing and informative

[Val · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect read for getting back on the bike since childhood and aspiring to commute sans car. Well written with a great sense of humor!

[Shayne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good ideas, and full of encouragement to ride, but not a great book.