SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING

This is not a guidebook, though some details of history and routes are touched upon. From the perspective of the experienced cyclist, the most interesting elements are the observations about local cycling culture and Scot's self-declared slightly off-beat sense of humour, for example, when recommending Stratford-on-Avon for souvenirs stating "I Love London". Immediately after he recommends Warwick and Leamington Spa for "less annoying tourists". At first I thought that this was an editorial error .... surely "fewer annoying tourists" ..... however, given Scot's general approach to cycling, the first could well be deliberate. Self-deprecation is a feature of much cycle-touring writing and this is no exception. Added to this, is a joy at unexpected discovery, when arriving peaceful places, or showing people the familiar. Pleasure is to be found in the combination of Oxford's glorious buildings and in discovering a road-crossing for ducks. Having said that, there are sections where stronger editing would have helped to create a snappier read. Much as I enjoyed a good deal of this book, I felt that it was one for dipping into, rather than a cover to cover read.

Will it inspire? Well, Scot does not get involved in arcane cycling lore or get bogged down in what you need to wear and take. The fact is, cycling is, in his view, simple. Get on your bike and go and explore. Many of the rides he writes about were opportunists affairs, a few spare hours here or there when on a non-cycling holiday, or the chance for a day out with the family. Simple words, simple cycling .....

REVIEW PUBLISHED JULY 2015