Spring 2026

The Young Cyclist's Companion

  • Interest Level: Grade 4 - Grade 8
  • Reading Level: Grade 4

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 The Young Cyclist’s Companion

“A clear, fun, accessible, accurate, and encouraging guide for kids who love to bike.” — Kirkus Starred Review

“Quotes from famous cyclists, a time line of bicycle history, and quick cycling facts complement the attractive design. A helpful guide.” — Booklist

“This would make a great gift for fans of cycling, so the readers could reference it again and again.” — Youth Services Book Review

“The Young Cyclist’s Companion is a “must-have” for any young adult who owns or is learning to ride a bicycle." — Midwest Book 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

“Striking graphics round out this thorough look at cycling. If you want to make sure you have a thorough guide to cycling for your collection this would be an excellent choice.” — Puget Sound Council for the Review of Children’s and Young Adult Literature

“As a beginner cyclist, this book is a must-have book!! I highly recommend it to other cyclists!” Liam – Age 9 — Kids Book Buzz

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

“This would make an ideal starting point for Bike ability in schools and a fantastic gift for young cyclists.” — My Shelves Are Full

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, 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 bikes, getting the right fit), basic maintenance (changing a tire, cleaning your bike), cycling techniques (pedaling, 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.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-908714-96-1
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$16.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 4 - Grade 8
Reading Level Grade 4
Genre Social Studies
Category 5 Kinds of Nonfiction, 5KN: Active Nonfiction, 5KN: Browseable Nonfiction
Copyright 2021
Publisher Cicada Books
Language English
Number of Pages 72
Publication Date 2026-01-01
Text Type Informational/Explanatory
BISACS JNF054040, JNF057000, JNF015000
Dimensions 7 x 9

Author: Peter Drinkell

Peter Drinkell is a photographer, writer, and cycling obsessive. He is the author of The Bike Owner’s Handbook (Cicada, 2013), The Road Cyclist’s Companion (Cicada, 2015), and the photographer of Great Cycling Climbs (2019).

Illustrator: Thomas Slater

Thomas Slater is a London-based illustrator and equally obsessive cyclist. HIs work has been featured in The New York Times, Vice Magazine, Bloomberg Review, and on products by Camden Brewery and Urban Outfitters. The Young Cyclist’s Companion is his first book.