Trailblazer Guide Books

These Trailblazer guides … are a godsend for independent travelers.
 — Travel & Leisure

Third edition of the book that has become the cycle-tourist's Bible. Harriet & Neil Pike have updated and expanded Stephen Lord's inspirational guide.

Every cyclist dreams of making the big Trip, the Grand Cycle Tour abroad.   Whether that's a two-week trip or a year-long journey, the Adventure Cycle-Touring Handbook is the comprehensive manual that will make the dream a reality.   Riding the Karakoram Highway, cycling in Tibet or pedalling from Patagonia to Alaska, whether you're planning your own Big Trip or just enjoy reading about other people's adventures, the Handbook is guaranteed to illuminate, entertain and above all, inspire.

Fully updated 3rd edition of the guide to worldwide long-distance trips - from two-week tours to epic adventures of many months or more. The book is divided into seven sections:    

• Part 1: Planning and preparation  What kind of ride? – Seasons – Budget and time – Companions – Researching information – Documentation – Visas – Insurance – Money – Health

   

• Part 2 Bikes, Clothing & Camping Gear    Narrowing down your bike choices - Frame material and component options - Top touring bikes – Comfort zone – Tools and spares - Carrying luggage – How much stuff? – Bikepacking setup; Clothing – Footwear; Camping – Tents – Sleeping bags and mats – Stoves – Treating water – Kitchen essentials – Electronic devices
• Part 3 On the road   Transporting your bike – Navigating – Staying in touch – Health – Hygiene – Staying Safe – Dirt-road riding
• Part 4 Route Outlines – Europe to Asia & Australasia    Practical information and touring tips for: Europe – Southern route through Turkey, Iran and Pakistan –Indian subcontinent – Caucasus – Central Asia – Northern route through Russia & Mongolia – East Asia – South East Asia – Australasia.

   

• Part 5 Route Outlines – Africa   Practical information and touring tips for: the Nile Route – East and Southern Africa – the Sahara – West and Central Africa.
• Part 6 Route Outlines – the Americas   Practical information and touring tips for: Pan-American Highway - Alaska to the Lower 48 – Pacific Coast Route – Great Divide Mountain Bike Route – Mexico and Central America – Negotiating the Darien Gap – Riding the Andes from Colombia to Patagonia .
• Part 7 Tales from the Saddle   Seven first-hand accounts of spoke-bending biking adventures worldwide.
•  Appendix - Bicycle Maintenance

   

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