Best cycling books for 2022: 11 inspirational reads

By Rachel Howatson

Published: Tuesday, 14 June 2022 at 12:00 am

With so many fascinating cycling books available, including tales of Tour de France champions and investigations into doping scandals, it can be tricky choosing your next read. We’ve put together a list of the best cycling books to help you out.

Gain an insight into what it takes to be a professional cyclist; learn about the history of a specific ride such as LEJOG, Giro d’Italia or The Transcontinental and delve into personal accounts of world-record attempts with our selection of the best cycling books.

Whether you’re after an insightful read for an upcoming holiday, or a cycling gift for a fellow bike enthusiast, we’ve got you covered.

Best cycling books for 2022

End to End

Fancy riding from Land’s End to John O’Groats? LEJOG, JOGLE, End to End, whatever you want to call it, you can read all about it in Paul Jones’ highly regarded narrative. In an attempt to understand what it takes to ride the length of the UK, occasional racing cyclist Jones took to the challenge himself and thankfully for us, has written a captivating account of his experience.

Jones also delves into the history of record-breaking attempts and describes meetings with those who have cycled the route in quite remarkable times, such as Eileen Sheridan and Michael Broadwith.

A great gift for those who are keen to give LEJOG a go, or have an interest in the route’s history, this cycling book has been praised for its honest and fascinating nature.

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For more literature, take a look at the best triathlon books and the best outdoor adventure books

Bikepacking: Mountain Bike Camping Adventures on the Wild Trails of Britain

Like to combine your triathlon training with a bit of bikepacking? Plan your next trip with the help of this useful guide. Bikepacking is packed with 30 multi-day rides across Britain, from hidden trails and family-friendly routes, to help you successfully plan your wild adventure. You’ll also find helpful tips on camping, required kit and planning.

As an added bonus, all routes can be accessed by train and you can download maps to help you find your way. From mountain biking routes, to explorations of the Scottish Highlands, you’ll find all sorts of adventures for all kind of cycling abilities.

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Where There’s a Will: Hope, Grief and Endurance in a Cycle Race Across a Continent

For a moving read packed with emotion and grit, try Emily Chappell’s Where There’s a Will.

Read of her experience riding The Transcontinental – a 4,000km unassisted race across Europe. A story of determination, Chappell went from completing half of the race one year, to winning it the next. Covering a range of terrain, it should be the perfect read for those with a real sense of adventure.

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Gironimo!: Riding the Very Terrible 1914 Tour of Italy

If you’re after a humorous cycling book, Gironimo! is sure to make you chuckle. If you’re not familiar with the 1914 Giro d’Italia, it’s regarded as one of the toughest cycling races in history, with only eight of the 81 cyclists completing the event. Tim Moore set himself the challenge of recreating this event himself, as authentically as possible, wooden bike and all.

Praised for his witty writing style, Moore shares the ups and downs of his Italian ride.

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Tour de Force: My history-making Tour de France

Often described as having created the greatest cycling comeback of all time, sprinting legend Mark Cavendish has had quite the cycling career.

Having won the Tour de France’s green jersey in 2011, and then again 10 years later, it’s no surprise the cyclist has a lot to share. Read his incredible story in his autobiography – Tour de Force – or gift to a fellow Tour de France mega fan.