Winding Roads

Book excerpt: The view from the sometimes uncomfortable seat of a bicycle is unique. It offers intimate insight into the colorful people cyclists encounter, the geography surrounding us, the roads we travel on, and the mechanism on which we move. All are seen at the deliberate speed that can be experienced only on a bicycle. This story is not just about the rides but also the transformation of a shy, non-athletic kid. In the summer of 1978, John Frederick set out from his insulated life in Central Pennsylvania upon a journey that would dramatically change his life. A cross-country bicycling trek after college graduation became his rite of passage, but the things that led up to that trip make for a series of fascinating stories unto themselves. In this compelling travel memoir, Frederick imparts his lifelong adventure with humor and sharp insight. Saddle up for a lively odyssey stretching across the vivid landscapes of America.