Once every four years, the UK’s premier long distance cycling organisation host an international flagship event: A ride of approximately 1400km, on an out-and-back course between the capital cities of London (England) and Edinburgh (Scotland).
In 2009, cyclists from over 30 nations congregated in London’s Lea Valley, to join the longest regularly scheduled grand randonnée to be sanctioned by the Randonneurs Mondiaux.
The time limit: 116 hours, 40 minutes.
This is the story of a first time rider’s introduction to ultra long distance cycling.
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People Reviewed This Item
By hilarygent
Feb 26, 2010
An amazing ride. A brilliant read. You do not have to be remotely interested in cycling to enjoy this great book. If you have a bike in the garage it is a must.
Inspirational. Andy makes it seem so hard, and yet so easy. There are some beautiful little descriptive touches, nad a real sense of what it felt like. A real page turner.
If you haven't the time or energy to ride a bike from London to Edinburgh and back, 'Barring Mechanicals' can do it for you. Andy's account is manic stuff written in a style that captures the yearly 'race' up to Edinburgh and back and the people he meets on the way. If you like 'against the odds' surreal humour this is a great read. I found myself drawn in and cheering him on. This is a race against the clock and the book paces it very well. Sleep deprivation... Strange food... Scottish water torture... it's all there. Also great graphics that lets you follow his progress and set backs.
A great story of an adventure - full of determination and challenges, spills, laughter, friendship... and the enduring power of zip ties to hold a bicycle together for 900 miles!
