One Man and His Bike

Mike Carter

Jun 2011 · Random House

About this ebook

What would happen if you were cycling to the office and just kept on pedalling?

Needing a change, Mike Carter did just that. Following the Thames to the sea he embarked on an epic 5,000 mile ride around the entire British coastline - the equivalent of London to Calcutta.

He encountered drunken priests, drag queens and gnome sanctuaries. He met fellow travellers and people building for a different type of future. He also found a spirit of unbelievable kindness and generosity that convinced him that Britain is anything but broken. This is the inspiring and very funny tale of the five months Mike spent cycling the byways of the nation.

Ratings and reviews

Beautifully written, honest account of the sort of epic journey all of would like to do, if we were brave enough to. Anyone who has spent anytime travelling on their own will recognise and sympathise with the emotions and sentiments contained within this easy to read and humorous book. The contrast between the relaxed people of the lesser populated areas of the country and the stressed city inhabitants is well observed. A great tribute to the kindness of strangers, who are only that until you say hello.

You can relate to the events and feel immersed into the journey. After finishing reading I felt so inspired I took a day off work to cycle the Isle of Wight on Mike's behalf.

As a cycle tourer I emphasised with every pedal and page turn. Brilliant descriptions of what you will find if you open your eyes to right now versus what's next. I would struggle to think of anyone who wouldn't take something from this guide to the best of our island.

About the author

Mike Carter grew up in Birmingham and now lives in south-west London, from where he commutes to his freelance shifts at the Guardian and Observer on a bicycle. Although still married to his motorbike, the capital's traffic jams, speed cameras and bendy buses have somewhat cooled the relationship.