Wild Ride

Book excerpt: This book tells the story of the cyclists who were overcome by the need to venture forth on two wheels; the courageous men and women who undertook some of the most epic bicycle journeys of all time. While many of Australia's bicycle pioneers rode to beat records or be the first, others rode for no other reason than to immerse themselves in the wild. They willingly surrendered themselves to their fate in a land at once majestic, magical and hostile. Fortunately for us these bicycle pioneers were not content to merely ride. They wanted to share their experience with other like-minded folk and Australian readers devoured their stories; heady accounts filled with unbridled wonder, drama and derring-do. The journeys retold in this book are a thrilling reminder of a period of exploration largely forgotten in the age of the motorcar. We might simply choose to enjoy these pioneering feats vicariously from the comfort of our armchairs. Or, we might be inspired to venture out on our own pedal powered explorations. At the very least, they will make our excuses to not go for a ride seem rather feeble indeed!