Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Worth it for the turbo sessions alone, 10 Aug 2008
A very comprehensive book with some excellent indoor turbo trainer sessions for those of us that hate the contraptions and need every possible incentive to use one (other than the fear of being slow in the summer). The training programmes are all laid out in an easy to follow way, and to be honest if you followed them religiously then you would be bound to see an improvement. However, since I'd rather cut my legs off with a blunt hacksaw than ride a turbo it hasn't worked for me...

an excellent guide to achieving cycling fitness, 04 Jan 2002
Every cyclist interested in improving their fitness should read this book.

There are sections on racing, time-trialling and weight training. Particularly useful is the programme of turbo trainer workouts, with either a progressive 12 week programme or specific workouts to choose from.

The writing style is friendly, down-to-earth and encouraging too. Arnie Baker is a championship-winning cyclist, as well as a doctor, so he combines his real-world experience with scientific backup.

You will definitely want to get out on your bike and give it a go having read this!

Well done Doctor Baker !, 28 Oct 1999
Any serious cyclist should read this book. It's very interesting, you can be either a rookie or a skilled racer Doctor Baker can give you what you need in order to improve your result, and be a smart cyclist!

Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Worth it for the turbo sessions alone, 10 Aug 2008
A very comprehensive book with some excellent indoor turbo trainer sessions for those of us that hate the contraptions and need every possible incentive to use one (other than the fear of being slow in the summer). The training programmes are all laid out in an easy to follow way, and to be honest if you followed them religiously then you would be bound to see an improvement. However, since I'd rather cut my legs off with a blunt hacksaw than ride a turbo it hasn't worked for me...

an excellent guide to achieving cycling fitness, 04 Jan 2002
Every cyclist interested in improving their fitness should read this book.

There are sections on racing, time-trialling and weight training. Particularly useful is the programme of turbo trainer workouts, with either a progressive 12 week programme or specific workouts to choose from.

The writing style is friendly, down-to-earth and encouraging too. Arnie Baker is a championship-winning cyclist, as well as a doctor, so he combines his real-world experience with scientific backup.

You will definitely want to get out on your bike and give it a go having read this!

Well done Doctor Baker !, 28 Oct 1999
Any serious cyclist should read this book. It's very interesting, you can be either a rookie or a skilled racer Doctor Baker can give you what you need in order to improve your result, and be a smart cyclist!

One stop shop for Tri starters, 27 Jul 2008
Having spent a fair bit of time recently researching for my upcoming first Triathlon, if I were to be very hard it would be true to say that there is nothing in Joe's book that isn't already available on the web for free, somewhere. Triathlon for beginners stuff does abound, kit suggestions and explanations are plentiful, and there are more training plans than you could shake a pointy stick at out there too... and all for free. If you are also somebody - as previously suggested - that has a background in general fitness maybe the training plans aren't quite for you as they concentrate (fairly enough given the remit of this book) at those that have little to start with. It will really benefit those that don't have any great fitness base to start with (better than couch potato maybe, but certainly not anyone that is already running 5Ks or peel off 1K in the pool on the way home from the office etc).

However, this isn't to suggest that Joe's book is worthless - far from it. It provides a comprehensive one stop shop on where to start, quickly debunks many triathlon myths (e.g. triathlons are all ironman distances or require budgets of 1000s) and is full of motivational snippets that do leave the reader with the feeling that they WILL complete their first triathlon. The nutrition chapter is worth the book alone for beginners, as also previously stated.

If you are considering your first triathlon, aren't already on any endurance based exercise program and need somewhere to start your research you can't go wrong.

Great for absolute novices, 02 Aug 2007
Joe's book has some excellent passages to motivate the reader and dispells many of the myths and fears surrounding this growing sport. The tips of each aspect of triathlon are useful and his section on nutrition is superb. I would recommend this book to anyone just starting out in endurance training, or looking for inspirational cues to spur them on. If you already have a experience of distance running, cycling or swimming, then perhaps it's not for you.

Nothing to Novice in 12 weeks!, 30 Nov 2006
Having completed my first 2 sprints this year - I can vouch for the fact that this stuff really works! Don't be put off by the mistake in the synopsis above - you don't need to train 5 hours a day to do a sprint. 5 hours a week is plenty plenty! Happy Training.

Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Worth it for the turbo sessions alone, 10 Aug 2008
A very comprehensive book with some excellent indoor turbo trainer sessions for those of us that hate the contraptions and need every possible incentive to use one (other than the fear of being slow in the summer). The training programmes are all laid out in an easy to follow way, and to be honest if you followed them religiously then you would be bound to see an improvement. However, since I'd rather cut my legs off with a blunt hacksaw than ride a turbo it hasn't worked for me...

an excellent guide to achieving cycling fitness, 04 Jan 2002
Every cyclist interested in improving their fitness should read this book.

There are sections on racing, time-trialling and weight training. Particularly useful is the programme of turbo trainer workouts, with either a progressive 12 week programme or specific workouts to choose from.

The writing style is friendly, down-to-earth and encouraging too. Arnie Baker is a championship-winning cyclist, as well as a doctor, so he combines his real-world experience with scientific backup.

You will definitely want to get out on your bike and give it a go having read this!

Well done Doctor Baker !, 28 Oct 1999
Any serious cyclist should read this book. It's very interesting, you can be either a rookie or a skilled racer Doctor Baker can give you what you need in order to improve your result, and be a smart cyclist!

One stop shop for Tri starters, 27 Jul 2008
Having spent a fair bit of time recently researching for my upcoming first Triathlon, if I were to be very hard it would be true to say that there is nothing in Joe's book that isn't already available on the web for free, somewhere. Triathlon for beginners stuff does abound, kit suggestions and explanations are plentiful, and there are more training plans than you could shake a pointy stick at out there too... and all for free. If you are also somebody - as previously suggested - that has a background in general fitness maybe the training plans aren't quite for you as they concentrate (fairly enough given the remit of this book) at those that have little to start with. It will really benefit those that don't have any great fitness base to start with (better than couch potato maybe, but certainly not anyone that is already running 5Ks or peel off 1K in the pool on the way home from the office etc).

However, this isn't to suggest that Joe's book is worthless - far from it. It provides a comprehensive one stop shop on where to start, quickly debunks many triathlon myths (e.g. triathlons are all ironman distances or require budgets of 1000s) and is full of motivational snippets that do leave the reader with the feeling that they WILL complete their first triathlon. The nutrition chapter is worth the book alone for beginners, as also previously stated.

If you are considering your first triathlon, aren't already on any endurance based exercise program and need somewhere to start your research you can't go wrong.

Great for absolute novices, 02 Aug 2007
Joe's book has some excellent passages to motivate the reader and dispells many of the myths and fears surrounding this growing sport. The tips of each aspect of triathlon are useful and his section on nutrition is superb. I would recommend this book to anyone just starting out in endurance training, or looking for inspirational cues to spur them on. If you already have a experience of distance running, cycling or swimming, then perhaps it's not for you.

Nothing to Novice in 12 weeks!, 30 Nov 2006
Having completed my first 2 sprints this year - I can vouch for the fact that this stuff really works! Don't be put off by the mistake in the synopsis above - you don't need to train 5 hours a day to do a sprint. 5 hours a week is plenty plenty! Happy Training.

A great resource..., 03 Jan 2008
I've been cycling for years, mainly off-road, but now have plans for more long distance road cycling; so thought I'd read up on the subject. This book is well written and contains a wealth of information to build fitness levels and ride long distance comfortably. A great book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all but the most advanced cycle athletes.

A good proimer for the long distance rider, 26 Dec 2005
The book is a great reference source for those contemplating longer rides either in Audax events, endurance rides or long distance touring like Land's End to John O'Groats. All aspects of preparation are covered including:
nutrition
hydration
mechanics
clothing
fitness
Although it's of most benefit for those contemplating longer rides (50+miles per day) it's also useful as a comprehensive tick list for those about to embark on another long distance adventure.

inspirational and practical, 22 Jan 2004
I have always been a keen cyclist (I cycled across the Alps when I was 16) but only recently decided to take it a bit more seriously and this book has already proved both inspirational and incredibly useful.

The intelligent design of the book makes the huge amount of information it contains both easily digestible and accessible enough to make it suitable as a handy reference. It's written in an entirely non-patronising style that is very easy to read and features loads of detailed, labelled diagrams that both illustrate and explain - plus gear size charts, training graphs and tables, conversion tables, a useful glossary, lots of helpful addresses, and loads more...

The extensive and detailed hints and tips for training and nutrition are flexible enough to suit a wide range of needs, whether you aim to take part in a few casual 50 mile-plus rides or want to tackle something much more ambitious such as a 600km randonnee or a long-distance multi-stage tour.

The author is a very experienced cyclist but he doesn't need to state his authority - it just shines through in the depth of practical advice and information he gives in the pages of this wonderful book.

A superb guide to enjoying longer rides, & a good read too., 05 Jun 2002
A commuting cyclist since 1972, now doing 5000+ miles/year including events, I found this book invaluable. Best of all is advice on how to prevent "discomfort" on the bike. Nothing I knew for certain was contradicted, but a great deal of valuable new information is there - so much so I went through with a highlighter to ensure it could be picked out easily when needed later.

So, technically it is excellent. And the epic achievments are pretty inspiring, too!

I see this as a "standard text", a "sourcebook" for riders - those just beginning, and those (like me) who want to do more. Not many cyclists will know so much they will not benefit. Most (if not all) will learn a great deal and enjoy it a lot.

See you up the road.
Ed Lehmann.

A comprehensive and structured 'all you need to know' guide., 02 Nov 2001
This is an invaluable book for anyone wanting to ride a bike greater than 50 miles. It has a very easy to follow structured approach, but builds from the basics through every aspect that needs to be considered, to provide a comprehensive guide for even the most experienced of long distance cyclists. The overwhelming thing is that you know Simon has really done these things himself - I should know I rode 1215 km with him on the Paris-Brest-Paris, and still found the book added to my knowledge. There is no other book that covers this ground in such a digestable and easily followed way.

Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Worth it for the turbo sessions alone, 10 Aug 2008
A very comprehensive book with some excellent indoor turbo trainer sessions for those of us that hate the contraptions and need every possible incentive to use one (other than the fear of being slow in the summer). The training programmes are all laid out in an easy to follow way, and to be honest if you followed them religiously then you would be bound to see an improvement. However, since I'd rather cut my legs off with a blunt hacksaw than ride a turbo it hasn't worked for me...

an excellent guide to achieving cycling fitness, 04 Jan 2002
Every cyclist interested in improving their fitness should read this book.

There are sections on racing, time-trialling and weight training. Particularly useful is the programme of turbo trainer workouts, with either a progressive 12 week programme or specific workouts to choose from.

The writing style is friendly, down-to-earth and encouraging too. Arnie Baker is a championship-winning cyclist, as well as a doctor, so he combines his real-world experience with scientific backup.

You will definitely want to get out on your bike and give it a go having read this!

Well done Doctor Baker !, 28 Oct 1999
Any serious cyclist should read this book. It's very interesting, you can be either a rookie or a skilled racer Doctor Baker can give you what you need in order to improve your result, and be a smart cyclist!

One stop shop for Tri starters, 27 Jul 2008
Having spent a fair bit of time recently researching for my upcoming first Triathlon, if I were to be very hard it would be true to say that there is nothing in Joe's book that isn't already available on the web for free, somewhere. Triathlon for beginners stuff does abound, kit suggestions and explanations are plentiful, and there are more training plans than you could shake a pointy stick at out there too... and all for free. If you are also somebody - as previously suggested - that has a background in general fitness maybe the training plans aren't quite for you as they concentrate (fairly enough given the remit of this book) at those that have little to start with. It will really benefit those that don't have any great fitness base to start with (better than couch potato maybe, but certainly not anyone that is already running 5Ks or peel off 1K in the pool on the way home from the office etc).

However, this isn't to suggest that Joe's book is worthless - far from it. It provides a comprehensive one stop shop on where to start, quickly debunks many triathlon myths (e.g. triathlons are all ironman distances or require budgets of 1000s) and is full of motivational snippets that do leave the reader with the feeling that they WILL complete their first triathlon. The nutrition chapter is worth the book alone for beginners, as also previously stated.

If you are considering your first triathlon, aren't already on any endurance based exercise program and need somewhere to start your research you can't go wrong.

Great for absolute novices, 02 Aug 2007
Joe's book has some excellent passages to motivate the reader and dispells many of the myths and fears surrounding this growing sport. The tips of each aspect of triathlon are useful and his section on nutrition is superb. I would recommend this book to anyone just starting out in endurance training, or looking for inspirational cues to spur them on. If you already have a experience of distance running, cycling or swimming, then perhaps it's not for you.

Nothing to Novice in 12 weeks!, 30 Nov 2006
Having completed my first 2 sprints this year - I can vouch for the fact that this stuff really works! Don't be put off by the mistake in the synopsis above - you don't need to train 5 hours a day to do a sprint. 5 hours a week is plenty plenty! Happy Training.

A great resource..., 03 Jan 2008
I've been cycling for years, mainly off-road, but now have plans for more long distance road cycling; so thought I'd read up on the subject. This book is well written and contains a wealth of information to build fitness levels and ride long distance comfortably. A great book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all but the most advanced cycle athletes.

A good proimer for the long distance rider, 26 Dec 2005
The book is a great reference source for those contemplating longer rides either in Audax events, endurance rides or long distance touring like Land's End to John O'Groats. All aspects of preparation are covered including:
nutrition
hydration
mechanics
clothing
fitness
Although it's of most benefit for those contemplating longer rides (50+miles per day) it's also useful as a comprehensive tick list for those about to embark on another long distance adventure.

inspirational and practical, 22 Jan 2004
I have always been a keen cyclist (I cycled across the Alps when I was 16) but only recently decided to take it a bit more seriously and this book has already proved both inspirational and incredibly useful.

The intelligent design of the book makes the huge amount of information it contains both easily digestible and accessible enough to make it suitable as a handy reference. It's written in an entirely non-patronising style that is very easy to read and features loads of detailed, labelled diagrams that both illustrate and explain - plus gear size charts, training graphs and tables, conversion tables, a useful glossary, lots of helpful addresses, and loads more...

The extensive and detailed hints and tips for training and nutrition are flexible enough to suit a wide range of needs, whether you aim to take part in a few casual 50 mile-plus rides or want to tackle something much more ambitious such as a 600km randonnee or a long-distance multi-stage tour.

The author is a very experienced cyclist but he doesn't need to state his authority - it just shines through in the depth of practical advice and information he gives in the pages of this wonderful book.

A superb guide to enjoying longer rides, & a good read too., 05 Jun 2002
A commuting cyclist since 1972, now doing 5000+ miles/year including events, I found this book invaluable. Best of all is advice on how to prevent "discomfort" on the bike. Nothing I knew for certain was contradicted, but a great deal of valuable new information is there - so much so I went through with a highlighter to ensure it could be picked out easily when needed later.

So, technically it is excellent. And the epic achievments are pretty inspiring, too!

I see this as a "standard text", a "sourcebook" for riders - those just beginning, and those (like me) who want to do more. Not many cyclists will know so much they will not benefit. Most (if not all) will learn a great deal and enjoy it a lot.

See you up the road.
Ed Lehmann.

A comprehensive and structured 'all you need to know' guide., 02 Nov 2001
This is an invaluable book for anyone wanting to ride a bike greater than 50 miles. It has a very easy to follow structured approach, but builds from the basics through every aspect that needs to be considered, to provide a comprehensive guide for even the most experienced of long distance cyclists. The overwhelming thing is that you know Simon has really done these things himself - I should know I rode 1215 km with him on the Paris-Brest-Paris, and still found the book added to my knowledge. There is no other book that covers this ground in such a digestable and easily followed way.

Running as a teamsport!, 02 Jan 2009
This is a great book explaining the physical preparation, logistics and most importantly the cameraderie involved in a personal endurance adventure. Matt Beardshall wonderfully captures the banter, the highs and the lows in a way that appeals to both runners and non runners. He has a lovely conversational style of writing (reminiscent of the uber-athlete Dean Karnazes) and I for one hope he considers another silly adventure we can all read about.

Coast to coast the hard way, 18 May 2008
To a non runner this book is excellent. How do you describe the hundreds of thousands of footsteps it takes in an interesting and informative way? Matt Beardshalls's book shows you how. It is a collection of the serious mind set you must have, along with the anecdotes and people stories generated along the way. Single minded - yes. Achieving goals -yes. Conquering the pain and the devils - yes. Read it, you'll discover what it really takes.

North Sea - here we come..? Brilliaaaaant!, 07 May 2008
Captures the atmosphere of the Coast to Coast - presented in a humorous way, detailing both the highs, lows and `up and downs` of a long-distance supported challenge and the organisational skills required for such an undertaking. Good read. Recommended.

enjoyable, inspiring and fun, 20 Apr 2008
Compact, informative about all aspects of the challenge, planning, training, route, motivation etc. A great little book and easy to read, but if you are not careful it can make you want to get out of the armchair and do something - oh dear! If you are a runner you can understand where they are coming from and what they go through. If you are not you can enjoy it anyway - but you may be inspired to do something afterwards!

These Boys Know how to give it big time, 18 Apr 2008
This is a great read if you have ever done something similar you immediately have an affinity with the guys. If you are looking for the next challenge this certainly gives you some ideas or if you have been thinking about putting on a pair of running shoes this is a great inspiration, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.

Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Worth it for the turbo sessions alone, 10 Aug 2008
A very comprehensive book with some excellent indoor turbo trainer sessions for those of us that hate the contraptions and need every possible incentive to use one (other than the fear of being slow in the summer). The training programmes are all laid out in an easy to follow way, and to be honest if you followed them religiously then you would be bound to see an improvement. However, since I'd rather cut my legs off with a blunt hacksaw than ride a turbo it hasn't worked for me...

an excellent guide to achieving cycling fitness, 04 Jan 2002
Every cyclist interested in improving their fitness should read this book.

There are sections on racing, time-trialling and weight training. Particularly useful is the programme of turbo trainer workouts, with either a progressive 12 week programme or specific workouts to choose from.

The writing style is friendly, down-to-earth and encouraging too. Arnie Baker is a championship-winning cyclist, as well as a doctor, so he combines his real-world experience with scientific backup.

You will definitely want to get out on your bike and give it a go having read this!

Well done Doctor Baker !, 28 Oct 1999
Any serious cyclist should read this book. It's very interesting, you can be either a rookie or a skilled racer Doctor Baker can give you what you need in order to improve your result, and be a smart cyclist!

One stop shop for Tri starters, 27 Jul 2008
Having spent a fair bit of time recently researching for my upcoming first Triathlon, if I were to be very hard it would be true to say that there is nothing in Joe's book that isn't already available on the web for free, somewhere. Triathlon for beginners stuff does abound, kit suggestions and explanations are plentiful, and there are more training plans than you could shake a pointy stick at out there too... and all for free. If you are also somebody - as previously suggested - that has a background in general fitness maybe the training plans aren't quite for you as they concentrate (fairly enough given the remit of this book) at those that have little to start with. It will really benefit those that don't have any great fitness base to start with (better than couch potato maybe, but certainly not anyone that is already running 5Ks or peel off 1K in the pool on the way home from the office etc).

However, this isn't to suggest that Joe's book is worthless - far from it. It provides a comprehensive one stop shop on where to start, quickly debunks many triathlon myths (e.g. triathlons are all ironman distances or require budgets of 1000s) and is full of motivational snippets that do leave the reader with the feeling that they WILL complete their first triathlon. The nutrition chapter is worth the book alone for beginners, as also previously stated.

If you are considering your first triathlon, aren't already on any endurance based exercise program and need somewhere to start your research you can't go wrong.

Great for absolute novices, 02 Aug 2007
Joe's book has some excellent passages to motivate the reader and dispells many of the myths and fears surrounding this growing sport. The tips of each aspect of triathlon are useful and his section on nutrition is superb. I would recommend this book to anyone just starting out in endurance training, or looking for inspirational cues to spur them on. If you already have a experience of distance running, cycling or swimming, then perhaps it's not for you.

Nothing to Novice in 12 weeks!, 30 Nov 2006
Having completed my first 2 sprints this year - I can vouch for the fact that this stuff really works! Don't be put off by the mistake in the synopsis above - you don't need to train 5 hours a day to do a sprint. 5 hours a week is plenty plenty! Happy Training.

A great resource..., 03 Jan 2008
I've been cycling for years, mainly off-road, but now have plans for more long distance road cycling; so thought I'd read up on the subject. This book is well written and contains a wealth of information to build fitness levels and ride long distance comfortably. A great book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all but the most advanced cycle athletes.

A good proimer for the long distance rider, 26 Dec 2005
The book is a great reference source for those contemplating longer rides either in Audax events, endurance rides or long distance touring like Land's End to John O'Groats. All aspects of preparation are covered including:
nutrition
hydration
mechanics
clothing
fitness
Although it's of most benefit for those contemplating longer rides (50+miles per day) it's also useful as a comprehensive tick list for those about to embark on another long distance adventure.

inspirational and practical, 22 Jan 2004
I have always been a keen cyclist (I cycled across the Alps when I was 16) but only recently decided to take it a bit more seriously and this book has already proved both inspirational and incredibly useful.

The intelligent design of the book makes the huge amount of information it contains both easily digestible and accessible enough to make it suitable as a handy reference. It's written in an entirely non-patronising style that is very easy to read and features loads of detailed, labelled diagrams that both illustrate and explain - plus gear size charts, training graphs and tables, conversion tables, a useful glossary, lots of helpful addresses, and loads more...

The extensive and detailed hints and tips for training and nutrition are flexible enough to suit a wide range of needs, whether you aim to take part in a few casual 50 mile-plus rides or want to tackle something much more ambitious such as a 600km randonnee or a long-distance multi-stage tour.

The author is a very experienced cyclist but he doesn't need to state his authority - it just shines through in the depth of practical advice and information he gives in the pages of this wonderful book.

A superb guide to enjoying longer rides, & a good read too., 05 Jun 2002
A commuting cyclist since 1972, now doing 5000+ miles/year including events, I found this book invaluable. Best of all is advice on how to prevent "discomfort" on the bike. Nothing I knew for certain was contradicted, but a great deal of valuable new information is there - so much so I went through with a highlighter to ensure it could be picked out easily when needed later.

So, technically it is excellent. And the epic achievments are pretty inspiring, too!

I see this as a "standard text", a "sourcebook" for riders - those just beginning, and those (like me) who want to do more. Not many cyclists will know so much they will not benefit. Most (if not all) will learn a great deal and enjoy it a lot.

See you up the road.
Ed Lehmann.

A comprehensive and structured 'all you need to know' guide., 02 Nov 2001
This is an invaluable book for anyone wanting to ride a bike greater than 50 miles. It has a very easy to follow structured approach, but builds from the basics through every aspect that needs to be considered, to provide a comprehensive guide for even the most experienced of long distance cyclists. The overwhelming thing is that you know Simon has really done these things himself - I should know I rode 1215 km with him on the Paris-Brest-Paris, and still found the book added to my knowledge. There is no other book that covers this ground in such a digestable and easily followed way.

Running as a teamsport!, 02 Jan 2009
This is a great book explaining the physical preparation, logistics and most importantly the cameraderie involved in a personal endurance adventure. Matt Beardshall wonderfully captures the banter, the highs and the lows in a way that appeals to both runners and non runners. He has a lovely conversational style of writing (reminiscent of the uber-athlete Dean Karnazes) and I for one hope he considers another silly adventure we can all read about.

Coast to coast the hard way, 18 May 2008
To a non runner this book is excellent. How do you describe the hundreds of thousands of footsteps it takes in an interesting and informative way? Matt Beardshalls's book shows you how. It is a collection of the serious mind set you must have, along with the anecdotes and people stories generated along the way. Single minded - yes. Achieving goals -yes. Conquering the pain and the devils - yes. Read it, you'll discover what it really takes.

North Sea - here we come..? Brilliaaaaant!, 07 May 2008
Captures the atmosphere of the Coast to Coast - presented in a humorous way, detailing both the highs, lows and `up and downs` of a long-distance supported challenge and the organisational skills required for such an undertaking. Good read. Recommended.

enjoyable, inspiring and fun, 20 Apr 2008
Compact, informative about all aspects of the challenge, planning, training, route, motivation etc. A great little book and easy to read, but if you are not careful it can make you want to get out of the armchair and do something - oh dear! If you are a runner you can understand where they are coming from and what they go through. If you are not you can enjoy it anyway - but you may be inspired to do something afterwards!

These Boys Know how to give it big time, 18 Apr 2008
This is a great read if you have ever done something similar you immediately have an affinity with the guys. If you are looking for the next challenge this certainly gives you some ideas or if you have been thinking about putting on a pair of running shoes this is a great inspiration, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.

Perfect for finding the motivation over winter, 13 Oct 2008
Many cycling books touch on the subject of Cyclo Sportives such as the increasingly popular L'Etape du Tour and some even go as far as to tell you how to to train for one. Unfortunately, this extends only to what amounts to lots of mileage, with no real reason as to why. Nor do they cover any of the specific points for the sportive newcomer to consider.

If you are absolutely BRAND NEW to cycling (ie you have only just bought the bike!) then something a bit more basic and straightforward such as the LANCE ARMSTRONG PERFORMANCE PLAN would be a better start. Once you've read that and gone out and done more than a 20 miler (both acievable on the same day!!) then you should take a look at this book.

It covers EVERYTHING the aspirant sportivist needs to know about training and preparing to put him (or her)self through the several hundred miles these events usually clock up. It includes training plans for the rookiw and advances cyclist alike which will prepare you over the winter months for the summer sportive season and also covers in great depth what you need to know about nutrition. In fact, few books I've read achieve this level of detail for this specific subject matter and its worth a read for this alone. It also covers the 'handy hints' a rookiw sportivist would need to know for his or her first sportive. All in all, its very thorough.

I would DEFINATELY recommend this book to anyone who is looking to enter this type of endurance event next summer (this is written as at Oct). It will supply you with the requisite motivation to get out and spend hours on end on your bike over the cold and wet winter months in order to ensure you are fit enough to enjoy your event.

That said, could I say anything negative about it? Well, YES, actually. The authors seem to have a professional sports coaching and fitness testing business which is repeatedly referred to throughout the text. Is this because they wish to merely substantiate their credentials or is it an effort to advertise themselves and thus the book serves as a marketing tool for the business? Either way, the necessary info and knowledge is all their and should not stop you from buying this book.

Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Worth it for the turbo sessions alone, 10 Aug 2008
A very comprehensive book with some excellent indoor turbo trainer sessions for those of us that hate the contraptions and need every possible incentive to use one (other than the fear of being slow in the summer). The training programmes are all laid out in an easy to follow way, and to be honest if you followed them religiously then you would be bound to see an improvement. However, since I'd rather cut my legs off with a blunt hacksaw than ride a turbo it hasn't worked for me...

an excellent guide to achieving cycling fitness, 04 Jan 2002
Every cyclist interested in improving their fitness should read this book.

There are sections on racing, time-trialling and weight training. Particularly useful is the programme of turbo trainer workouts, with either a progressive 12 week programme or specific workouts to choose from.

The writing style is friendly, down-to-earth and encouraging too. Arnie Baker is a championship-winning cyclist, as well as a doctor, so he combines his real-world experience with scientific backup.

You will definitely want to get out on your bike and give it a go having read this!

Well done Doctor Baker !, 28 Oct 1999
Any serious cyclist should read this book. It's very interesting, you can be either a rookie or a skilled racer Doctor Baker can give you what you need in order to improve your result, and be a smart cyclist!

One stop shop for Tri starters, 27 Jul 2008
Having spent a fair bit of time recently researching for my upcoming first Triathlon, if I were to be very hard it would be true to say that there is nothing in Joe's book that isn't already available on the web for free, somewhere. Triathlon for beginners stuff does abound, kit suggestions and explanations are plentiful, and there are more training plans than you could shake a pointy stick at out there too... and all for free. If you are also somebody - as previously suggested - that has a background in general fitness maybe the training plans aren't quite for you as they concentrate (fairly enough given the remit of this book) at those that have little to start with. It will really benefit those that don't have any great fitness base to start with (better than couch potato maybe, but certainly not anyone that is already running 5Ks or peel off 1K in the pool on the way home from the office etc).

However, this isn't to suggest that Joe's book is worthless - far from it. It provides a comprehensive one stop shop on where to start, quickly debunks many triathlon myths (e.g. triathlons are all ironman distances or require budgets of 1000s) and is full of motivational snippets that do leave the reader with the feeling that they WILL complete their first triathlon. The nutrition chapter is worth the book alone for beginners, as also previously stated.

If you are considering your first triathlon, aren't already on any endurance based exercise program and need somewhere to start your research you can't go wrong.

Great for absolute novices, 02 Aug 2007
Joe's book has some excellent passages to motivate the reader and dispells many of the myths and fears surrounding this growing sport. The tips of each aspect of triathlon are useful and his section on nutrition is superb. I would recommend this book to anyone just starting out in endurance training, or looking for inspirational cues to spur them on. If you already have a experience of distance running, cycling or swimming, then perhaps it's not for you.

Nothing to Novice in 12 weeks!, 30 Nov 2006
Having completed my first 2 sprints this year - I can vouch for the fact that this stuff really works! Don't be put off by the mistake in the synopsis above - you don't need to train 5 hours a day to do a sprint. 5 hours a week is plenty plenty! Happy Training.

A great resource..., 03 Jan 2008
I've been cycling for years, mainly off-road, but now have plans for more long distance road cycling; so thought I'd read up on the subject. This book is well written and contains a wealth of information to build fitness levels and ride long distance comfortably. A great book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all but the most advanced cycle athletes.

A good proimer for the long distance rider, 26 Dec 2005
The book is a great reference source for those contemplating longer rides either in Audax events, endurance rides or long distance touring like Land's End to John O'Groats. All aspects of preparation are covered including:
nutrition
hydration
mechanics
clothing
fitness
Although it's of most benefit for those contemplating longer rides (50+miles per day) it's also useful as a comprehensive tick list for those about to embark on another long distance adventure.

inspirational and practical, 22 Jan 2004
I have always been a keen cyclist (I cycled across the Alps when I was 16) but only recently decided to take it a bit more seriously and this book has already proved both inspirational and incredibly useful.

The intelligent design of the book makes the huge amount of information it contains both easily digestible and accessible enough to make it suitable as a handy reference. It's written in an entirely non-patronising style that is very easy to read and features loads of detailed, labelled diagrams that both illustrate and explain - plus gear size charts, training graphs and tables, conversion tables, a useful glossary, lots of helpful addresses, and loads more...

The extensive and detailed hints and tips for training and nutrition are flexible enough to suit a wide range of needs, whether you aim to take part in a few casual 50 mile-plus rides or want to tackle something much more ambitious such as a 600km randonnee or a long-distance multi-stage tour.

The author is a very experienced cyclist but he doesn't need to state his authority - it just shines through in the depth of practical advice and information he gives in the pages of this wonderful book.

A superb guide to enjoying longer rides, & a good read too., 05 Jun 2002
A commuting cyclist since 1972, now doing 5000+ miles/year including events, I found this book invaluable. Best of all is advice on how to prevent "discomfort" on the bike. Nothing I knew for certain was contradicted, but a great deal of valuable new information is there - so much so I went through with a highlighter to ensure it could be picked out easily when needed later.

So, technically it is excellent. And the epic achievments are pretty inspiring, too!

I see this as a "standard text", a "sourcebook" for riders - those just beginning, and those (like me) who want to do more. Not many cyclists will know so much they will not benefit. Most (if not all) will learn a great deal and enjoy it a lot.

See you up the road.
Ed Lehmann.

A comprehensive and structured 'all you need to know' guide., 02 Nov 2001
This is an invaluable book for anyone wanting to ride a bike greater than 50 miles. It has a very easy to follow structured approach, but builds from the basics through every aspect that needs to be considered, to provide a comprehensive guide for even the most experienced of long distance cyclists. The overwhelming thing is that you know Simon has really done these things himself - I should know I rode 1215 km with him on the Paris-Brest-Paris, and still found the book added to my knowledge. There is no other book that covers this ground in such a digestable and easily followed way.

Running as a teamsport!, 02 Jan 2009
This is a great book explaining the physical preparation, logistics and most importantly the cameraderie involved in a personal endurance adventure. Matt Beardshall wonderfully captures the banter, the highs and the lows in a way that appeals to both runners and non runners. He has a lovely conversational style of writing (reminiscent of the uber-athlete Dean Karnazes) and I for one hope he considers another silly adventure we can all read about.

Coast to coast the hard way, 18 May 2008
To a non runner this book is excellent. How do you describe the hundreds of thousands of footsteps it takes in an interesting and informative way? Matt Beardshalls's book shows you how. It is a collection of the serious mind set you must have, along with the anecdotes and people stories generated along the way. Single minded - yes. Achieving goals -yes. Conquering the pain and the devils - yes. Read it, you'll discover what it really takes.

North Sea - here we come..? Brilliaaaaant!, 07 May 2008
Captures the atmosphere of the Coast to Coast - presented in a humorous way, detailing both the highs, lows and `up and downs` of a long-distance supported challenge and the organisational skills required for such an undertaking. Good read. Recommended.

enjoyable, inspiring and fun, 20 Apr 2008
Compact, informative about all aspects of the challenge, planning, training, route, motivation etc. A great little book and easy to read, but if you are not careful it can make you want to get out of the armchair and do something - oh dear! If you are a runner you can understand where they are coming from and what they go through. If you are not you can enjoy it anyway - but you may be inspired to do something afterwards!

These Boys Know how to give it big time, 18 Apr 2008
This is a great read if you have ever done something similar you immediately have an affinity with the guys. If you are looking for the next challenge this certainly gives you some ideas or if you have been thinking about putting on a pair of running shoes this is a great inspiration, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.

Perfect for finding the motivation over winter, 13 Oct 2008
Many cycling books touch on the subject of Cyclo Sportives such as the increasingly popular L'Etape du Tour and some even go as far as to tell you how to to train for one. Unfortunately, this extends only to what amounts to lots of mileage, with no real reason as to why. Nor do they cover any of the specific points for the sportive newcomer to consider.

If you are absolutely BRAND NEW to cycling (ie you have only just bought the bike!) then something a bit more basic and straightforward such as the LANCE ARMSTRONG PERFORMANCE PLAN would be a better start. Once you've read that and gone out and done more than a 20 miler (both acievable on the same day!!) then you should take a look at this book.

It covers EVERYTHING the aspirant sportivist needs to know about training and preparing to put him (or her)self through the several hundred miles these events usually clock up. It includes training plans for the rookiw and advances cyclist alike which will prepare you over the winter months for the summer sportive season and also covers in great depth what you need to know about nutrition. In fact, few books I've read achieve this level of detail for this specific subject matter and its worth a read for this alone. It also covers the 'handy hints' a rookiw sportivist would need to know for his or her first sportive. All in all, its very thorough.

I would DEFINATELY recommend this book to anyone who is looking to enter this type of endurance event next summer (this is written as at Oct). It will supply you with the requisite motivation to get out and spend hours on end on your bike over the cold and wet winter months in order to ensure you are fit enough to enjoy your event.

That said, could I say anything negative about it? Well, YES, actually. The authors seem to have a professional sports coaching and fitness testing business which is repeatedly referred to throughout the text. Is this because they wish to merely substantiate their credentials or is it an effort to advertise themselves and thus the book serves as a marketing tool for the business? Either way, the necessary info and knowledge is all their and should not stop you from buying this book.

cool, 23 Oct 2006
Well im only just getting into this book, not really had the chance to get properly into it, but i was given good recommendations from other cyclers. After reading the first chapter, i think its going to be an excellent source to helping me, but the best bit about this book is unlike alot of books like this one, it keeps you interested because it has humour in the book too.

You will not get bored of reading this book!

Mountian Biking Masterclass, 20 Nov 2008
This is a truly excellent, informative book. The comments made by some reviewers about the trendy language are perhaps justified but you soon find your way through it to uncover a wealth of useful, well explained and very well illustrated tips on how to improve your riding or "driving" as the authors put it. I have been riding a mountain bike for nearly 20 years but realised that I was lacking in many core techniques which is why I bought this book. I was not at all disappointed and I have already noticed an improvement in my riding. Buy it.

This excellent book is called MASTERING mountain bike skills!, 21 Jul 2008
I rarely write reviews, but this one deserves a good review and also deserves the record to be set straight with respect to a couple of previous reviews. Specifically, buying a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills (the clue is in the title) and complaining that it is not suitable for beginners is akin to buying a book on vegetarian cookery and complaining that it does not have enough meat dishes in it.
This book is by far the best skills book for anyone who has mastered the basics. It has a mass of detail in it. There are hundreds of hints and tips and the book pays dividends when read a few times over simply because there is so much info in it. I'm kind of gobsmacked at some of the bizarre criticisms I've read here. It's a shame these critics haven't named the books they have found superior. In over 10 years of riding I haven't seen another book/magazine/website/DVD that comes anywhere near providing the wealth of useful info that this book does. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their existing mountain biking skills. Here's another clue/tip: - If you don't know what an endo is, don't buy a book called MASTERING mountain bike skills, buy a BEGINNERS guide to mountain biking.


Dialing the wrong number, 05 May 2008
There are countless thousands of people with mountain bikes looking for a book to help them ride trails more skilfully. Sadly, this is not it.

At the outset the authors declare they want to write a step-by-step guide to mountain biking. They not only fail to do that, they do so in language which excludes newcomers while making asides which are only likely to put off inexperienced riders altogether.

There are a few good tips - drop offs, bunny hops and "manuals"/wheelies are all well and coherently covered. But there's no real sense of progress, and the authors give the impression they would rather be talking to fellow racers than taking time with beginners or recreational riders looking to add a few skills to their repertoire.

It is all written in irritating mountain bike magazine jargon which serves only to irritate and obscure rather than illuminate. Everything is "dialed". Of course. The overall tone is that of a 13-year-old boy pulling wheelies in front of his house.

One can only guess at the authors' motivation for going into details about death, paralysis and broken limbs on the trail or racecourse. Bravado has its place, but not in a training manual. Then again, the main theme of the book does seem to be "whatever you do, don't use the brakes".


Great guidance for all styles of riding, 29 Feb 2008
If you only ever buy one mountain bike tuition book make sure that this is it. Ive only been riding just over a year and ive found every part of this book really useful. It covers loads of subjects, including everything from basic riding techniques to more complicated trials, jumping and racing topics. Its all very well laid out with lots of pictures and despite the opinion of some that it may be hard for beginners to understand due to jargon terms, I still class myself as a novice and had no problem understanding it. Besides, if there are any terms you are unsure of, there is always that wonderful invention, the internet, which is always willing and able to explain things to you....... ENJOY YOUR RIDING!

Buy it, you'll learn something., 22 Jan 2008
I've only been riding mountain bikes since this spring and a mate got me this for Christmas. I enjoy doing some off road stuff but most of what the book shows is well beyond what I'm likely to get into so I initially read it without expecting to get much out of it. Boy did I get a surprise. Within a week I'd managed to incorporate much of what is in the early chapters into my riding and I'm finding I've got a lot more confidence and am attacking the trail far more than I did before. As far as the later chapters go (jumping, dropping and such like) maybe one day it'll be something I want to look at but it's definitely fun to read about in the meantime.

As for the language, some of it is a bit Southern Californian but I managed to work my way round it. I'm still laughing about him suggesting that I might want to learn to "pump the backside".

Worth it for the turbo sessions alone, 10 Aug 2008
A very comprehensive book with some excellent indoor turbo trainer sessions for those of us that hate the contraptions and need every possible incentive to use one (other than the fear of being slow in the summer). The training programmes are all laid out in an easy to follow way, and to be honest if you followed them religiously then you would be bound to see an improvement. However, since I'd rather cut my legs off with a blunt hacksaw than ride a turbo it hasn't worked for me...

an excellent guide to achieving cycling fitness, 04 Jan 2002
Every cyclist interested in improving their fitness should read this book.

There are sections on racing, time-trialling and weight training. Particularly useful is the programme of turbo trainer workouts, with either a progressive 12 week programme or specific workouts to choose from.

The writing style is friendly, down-to-earth and encouraging too. Arnie Baker is a championship-winning cyclist, as well as a doctor, so he combines his real-world experience with scientific backup.

You will definitely want to get out on your bike and give it a go having read this!

Well done Doctor Baker !, 28 Oct 1999
Any serious cyclist should read this book. It's very interesting, you can be either a rookie or a skilled racer Doctor Baker can give you what you need in order to improve your result, and be a smart cyclist!

One stop shop for Tri starters, 27 Jul 2008
Having spent a fair bit of time recently researching for my upcoming first Triathlon, if I were to be very hard it would be true to say that there is nothing in Joe's book that isn't already available on the web for free, somewhere. Triathlon for beginners stuff does abound, kit suggestions and explanations are plentiful, and there are more training plans than you could shake a pointy stick at out there too... and all for free. If you are also somebody - as previously suggested - that has a background in general fitness maybe the training plans aren't quite for you as they concentrate (fairly enough given the remit of this book) at those that have little to start with. It will really benefit those that don't have any great fitness base to start with (better than couch potato maybe, but certainly not anyone that is already running 5Ks or peel off 1K in the pool on the way home from the office etc).

However, this isn't to suggest that Joe's book is worthless - far from it. It provides a comprehensive one stop shop on where to start, quickly debunks many triathlon myths (e.g. triathlons are all ironman distances or require budgets of 1000s) and is full of motivational snippets that do leave the reader with the feeling that they WILL complete their first triathlon. The nutrition chapter is worth the book alone for beginners, as also previously stated.

If you are considering your first triathlon, aren't already on any endurance based exercise program and need somewhere to start your research you can't go wrong.

Great for absolute novices, 02 Aug 2007
Joe's book has some excellent passages to motivate the reader and dispells many of the myths and fears surrounding this growing sport. The tips of each aspect of triathlon are useful and his section on nutrition is superb. I would recommend this book to anyone just starting out in endurance training, or looking for inspirational cues to spur them on. If you already have a experience of distance running, cycling or swimming, then perhaps it's not for you.

Nothing to Novice in 12 weeks!, 30 Nov 2006
Having completed my first 2 sprints this year - I can vouch for the fact that this stuff really works! Don't be put off by the mistake in the synopsis above - you don't need to train 5 hours a day to do a sprint. 5 hours a week is plenty plenty! Happy Training.

A great resource..., 03 Jan 2008
I've been cycling for years, mainly off-road, but now have plans for more long distance road cycling; so thought I'd read up on the subject. This book is well written and contains a wealth of information to build fitness levels and ride long distance comfortably. A great book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all but the most advanced cycle athletes.

A good proimer for the long distance rider, 26 Dec 2005
The book is a great reference source for those contemplating longer rides either in Audax events, endurance rides or long distance touring like Land's End to John O'Groats. All aspects of preparation are covered including:
nutrition
hydration
mechanics
clothing
fitness
Although it's of most benefit for those contemplating longer rides (50+miles per day) it's also useful as a comprehensive tick list for those about to embark on another long distance adventure.

inspirational and practical, 22 Jan 2004
I have always been a keen cyclist (I cycled across the Alps when I was 16) but only recently decided to take it a bit more seriously and this book has already proved both inspirational and incredibly useful.

The intelligent design of the book makes the huge amount of information it contains both easily digestible and accessible enough to make it suitable as a handy reference. It's written in an entirely non-patronising style that is very easy to read and features loads of detailed, labelled diagrams that both illustrate and explain - plus gear size charts, training graphs and tables, conversion tables, a useful glossary, lots of helpful addresses, and loads more...

The extensive and detailed hints and tips for training and nutrition are flexible enough to suit a wide range of needs, whether you aim to take part in a few casual 50 mile-plus rides or want to tackle something much more ambitious such as a 600km randonnee or a long-distance multi-stage tour.

The author is a very experienced cyclist but he doesn't need to state his authority - it just shines through in the depth of practical advice and information he gives in the pages of this wonderful book.

A superb guide to enjoying longer rides, & a good read too., 05 Jun 2002
A commuting cyclist since 1972, now doing 5000+ miles/year including events, I found this book invaluable. Best of all is advice on how to prevent "discomfort" on the bike. Nothing I knew for certain was contradicted, but a great deal of valuable new information is there - so much so I went through with a highlighter to ensure it could be picked out easily when needed later.

So, technically it