Pedal Through the Pages: The Top 10 Cycling Books Every Enthusiast Should Read

Cycling isn't just about the miles you log on the road; it’s also about the stories that inspire, the history that fascinates, and the strategies that challenge your thinking. Here’s my guide to the best cycling literature and who might enjoy each book, with handy links to grab a copy for your collection.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a fan of the sport, or simply someone looking for a great read, I think you'l find something you'll love in my top 10 cycling books to date. It's a bit of an insider's mix of memoirs, histories, and how-tos.

1. "The Rider" by Tim Krabbé

• For: The Competitive Cyclist and Armchair Athlete
• Why Read: Considered one of the best cycling novels ever written, The Rider takes you inside the mind of a cyclist during a single race. Tim Krabbé, a former competitive cyclist, brings to life the psychological and physical demands of the sport in a gripping, minute-by-minute account of a fictional 150-kilometer race told over 150 pages. This book is perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered what it’s like to push through the pain, strategize against competitors, and chase that elusive victory. This one sits at number one for me as the best road cycling read of all time as it transports me right into the racer's saddle! The first time, I read it in an evening as the pace was so gripping. If you only read one book about competitive cycling, make it this one!
• View on Amazon

2. "Put Me Back on My Bike: In Search of Tom Simpson" by William Fotheringham

• For: The Tragic Hero Enthusiast and History Buff
• Why Read: Tom Simpson was one of Britain’s greatest cyclists until his tragic death during the 1967 Tour de France on Mont Ventoux. Fotheringham’s biography investigates the life and career of Simpson, offering insight into the insane pressures of professional cycling, and how one of its brightest stars was driven to his untimely death. It’s a moving exploration of the sport’s demands and its human toll. For me it first shed light on the necessity of drug enhancment to achieve competitive victories - and shattered my belief that pro riders were simply superhuman...
• View on Amazon

3. "The Secret Race: Inside the Hidden World of the Tour de France" by Tyler Hamilton and Daniel Coyle

• For: The Scandal Enthusiast and Realist
• Why Read: The Secret Race is a once shocking exposé of the world of professional cycling, written by former pro cyclist Tyler Hamilton and journalist Daniel Coyle. The book offers a deep dive into the culture of doping within the sport, revealing the lengths to which riders would go to win. If you’re interested in the darker side of competitive sports, this candid and compelling narrative will give you an insider’s perspective on the pressures and ethical dilemmas faced by top athletes. The was a natural follow up book for me, after reading about Tom Simpson, and why a father and husband would risk everything for his sport.
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4. "Racing Through the Dark: The Fall and Rise of David Millar" by David Millar

• For: The Redemption Seeker and Personal Story Fan
• Why Read: David Millar’s memoir Racing Through the Dark chronicles his career from being one of Britain’s brightest cycling stars to his fall from grace due to doping, and his subsequent comeback as an advocate for clean sport. This book is a powerful story of redemption and resilience, perfect for readers who are interested in the personal struggles and moral complexities faced by professional athletes. This was my final book on the topic of doping in cycling and one of the best there is on the subject. The candure, insights and clarity of the autor make it a very compelling read.
• View on Amazon

5. "Slaying the Badger: Greg LeMond, Bernard Hinault, and the Greatest Tour de France" by Richard Moore

• For: The History Buff and Drama Lover
• Why Read: Slaying the Badger is a riveting account of the 1986 Tour de France, which saw the intense rivalry between American Greg LeMond and his teammate, French legend Bernard Hinault. Richard Moore masterfully captures the tension, drama, and political intrigue of this historic race. If you enjoy stories about rivalry, loyalty, and the complexities of team dynamics in sports, this book will keep you hooked from start to finish. After the previous books, it's refreshing to focus on the politics and phsycology of the racers, rather than their consumption of performance enhancing drugs!
• View on Amazon

6. "The Escape Artist: Life from the Saddle" by Matt Seaton

• For: The Reflective Cyclist and Literary Enthusiast
• Why Read: A beautifully written memoir by Matt Seaton, who reflects on his passion for cycling and how it helped him navigate personal challenges, including his wife’s battle with cancer. This book isn’t just about cycling; it’s about the solace and clarity the sport can bring in difficult times. Ideal for those who appreciate introspective, heartfelt narratives, this book will resonate with anyone who understands cycling is far more than just a sport. What I found most compelling about this book is the observation of the mental and emotional escape that cycling provides. Seaton's writing is deeply eloquent and intimate, drawing readers into his world with vivid descriptions of early morning rides, the camaraderie of cycling clubs, and the solitary struggle against physical limits. A powerful book to re-read from time to time.
• View on Amazon

7. "Shut Up, Legs!: My Wild Ride On and Off the Bike" by Jens Voigt

• For: The Jens Voigt Fan and Inspirational Quote Collector
• Why Read: Jens Voigt, known for his tough-as-nails attitude and memorable quotes, shares his life story in Shut Up, Legs!. From his early days in East Germany to his career in professional cycling, Voigt’s memoir is filled with anecdotes, life lessons, and his signature humor. This book is perfect for fans of Voigt or anyone looking for a motivational and entertaining read that captures the spirit of perseverance and hard work. What I appreciated most about the book was the candid insight it provided into how Jens' upbringing in East Germany and his strong family connections really shaped his personality. The restult is an uplifting and well paced read that I could not put down!
• View on Amazon

8. "One More Kilometre and We’re in the Showers" by Tim Hilton

• For: The Nostalgic Cyclist and Cultural Historian
• Why Read: This is a nostalgic journey through the history of cycling in Britain. Tim Hilton, a lifelong cyclist and cycling journalist, blends personal memoir with historical insight, covering everything from the early days of cycling to the golden era of British racing. This book is a must-read for those who love the culture and history of cycling, offering a deep dive into the sport’s impact on British society. At times it was a little long winded for me, but worthwhile in the end for it's rich and detailed history of British cycling from the perspective of a real insider.
• View on Amazon

9. "The Tour According to G: My Journey to the Yellow Jersey" by Geraint Thomas

• For: The Tour de France Fan and Success Story Enthusiast
• Why Read: A very readable insider’s account of Geraint Thomas’s journey to winning the 2018 Tour de France. The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to compete at the highest level of cycling, from the physical and mental preparation to the strategies employed during the race. This book is ideal for anyone fascinated by the Tour de France or those who enjoy tales of determination and triumph against the odds. For me, it was simply an excellent read, on par with "The Rider", but being a factual account, it makes it that much more engaging!
• View on Amazon

10. "The Hour: Sporting Immortality the Hard Way" by Michael Hutchinson

• For: The Time Trialist and Endurance Sport Aficionado
• Why Read: The author chronicles his attempt to break the world hour record—a grueling challenge in which cyclists aim to ride as far as possible in one hour. This book delves into the history of the hour record, the mental and physical demands of the attempt, and Hutchinson’s own experiences as he pushes the limits of human endurance. While it's barely known in the genre of cycling literature, this easy to read book offers a rather uniquely insightful look at one of cycling’s most fascinating challenges. I rarely find a biography I can’t put down, but this one was an exception. Even if you’re not into cycling, the story is compelling and often laugh-out-loud funny!
• View on Amazon

Pedal to the Pages

Cycling is a sport rich in stories, from the legendary races to the personal journeys of those who pedal through pain, glory, and sometimes scandal.

While I'm more of a get-out-and-ride person, there are times when it's nice to enjoy someone else's pedal pushing!

So grab a book (or two) from this list, find a comfortable spot, and let the tales of cycling’s greatest moments and personalities inspire your next ride.

Enjoy the ride and the read! If you think I have missed your favourite cycling book, please let me know!

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