The Young Cyclist's Companion

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

A brisk guide for the aspirant bike rider all the way from choosing a first bike to techniques for wheelies and bunny hops and the finer points of riding in a group. This multi-layering of information makes this an inspirational read on many levels.

Praise for Young Cyclist's Companion!

"A clear, fun, accessible, accurate, and encouraging guide for kids who love to bike". -- Kirkus Starred Review

"Much like Chris Hoy's guide, The Young Cyclist's Companion is a fun and accessible guide sure to entertain and inform, well-supported by illustrations and photographs". -- We Love Cycling

"Packed with a surprisingly large amount of useful and entertaining information. Best of all it makes you want to get out and ride". -- Bikemonger

"A fantastic foray into the world of cycling and all things 'bike' for children, which could not have come at a better time". -- The Literacy Tree

"A great, bright and catchy non-fiction book, well supported by photographs and illustrations. This would be a great gift for children who have shown interest in cycling". -- Reading Zone

"With a clever blend of introductory explanation and more in-depth tips for budding enthusiasts, this comprehensive hardback guide to owning and riding a bicycle will appeal to a wide range of children in KS2". -- School Reading List

Who doesn't remember what it feels like to be a young person on a bike. Cycling offers kids an unrivalled freedom and independence. With global cycling trends on a new, post-pandemic high, ever more young people are experiencing the joys of the beautiful machine.

This book is aimed at young people who are already proficient cyclists and are keen to learn more. It explains all the basics: How to choose a bike (types of bike, getting the right fit), basic maintenance (changing a tire, cleaning your bike), cycling techniques (pedalling, gearing, cornering, bunny hops) and next level cycling (competitions and training).

Alongside these informative texts there is a cornucopia of facts and trivia about the unusual habits of famous cyclists, the weirdest, biggest, furthest and longest bikes and journeys, the most useful cycling life-hacks, etc.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

Booklist Review

Young riders can knowledgeably join in the popular sport of cycling with this guide, imported from Australia. The text, divided into short chunks for accessibility, is set against photos of kid cyclists in action; vibrant, energetic cartoons; and colorful graphics of bicycle parts and riding techniques. The first section considers types of bikes, the right bike fit, and essential bike parts and gear. The next section focuses on bike maintenance and includes step-by-step instructions for inspecting, cleaning, and lubricating their components as well as mending a tire puncture. Progressing from road safety and braking to wheelies and bunny hops, the third section offers more step-by-step instructions on cycling techniques. After some practice, readers will be ready for the final section on group rides, the Tour de France (which acknowledges the race's sexism), and other types of racing. A few British spellings (e.g., tyre), British hand signals, and metric measurements should not affect comprehension. Quotes from famous cyclists, a time line of bicycle history, and quick cycling facts complement the attractive design. A helpful guide.

Kirkus Book Review

A comprehensive guide geared to the young cyclist. With its perky design and friendly tone, this manual provides readers with pretty much all the information they need to be confident and competent cyclists. The copious cartoon illustrations are mostly inclusive--cyclists of various ethnicities and skin color are depicted, though none are visibly disabled--while their lighthearted quality keeps the tone unintimidating. The four main chapters ("The Right Bike for You"; "Maintaining Your Bike"; "Cycling Technique"; and "Stepping It Up a Gear") are laid out in easily understood pockets of information that include the anatomy of a bike, how to choose a bike for your needs, how to take care of it, how to ride safely and efficiently, and riding with a club. The information, with its practical delivery and fun, confident approach, obviously comes from direct experience. Kids will learn how to fix a flat, keep their bike in good shape, brake properly, and cycling safely on roadways, among many others, and the whole is sprinkled with quirky quotes from professional cyclists. The book is directed toward both boys and girls (and it does mention that competitive road cycling is male-centric, with the men's teams getting more attention and money--a commendable aside). While the measurements in this U.K. import are usually given in metric and some spelling is British, this shouldn't make any appreciable difference to American readers. The British hand signaling, however, differs from U.S. custom. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A clear, fun, accessible, accurate, and encouraging guide for kids who love to bike. (glossary) (Nonfiction. 8-14) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.