Explore books that celebrate the open road and the thrill of adventure, perfect for winter reading and planning your next motorcycle journey.
As winter settles in and the cold snap grips the roads, it’s the perfect time to enrich your spirit with stories from those who’ve traveled far and wide on two wheels. These ten motorcycle travel books will not only warm your heart but also fuel your wanderlust, inspiring you to think about your next adventure once riding season returns.
1. Motorcycle Messengers: Tales from the Road by Writers who Ride, Edited by Jeremy Kroeker
This collection compiles gripping tales from world-renowned authors who ride. Featuring stories from well-known writers like Neil Peart, Carla King, and Paddy Tyson, this anthology introduces diverse narratives that spark laughter, adventure, and contemplation. It's an ideal read as you relax by the fireplace, offering a gateway to discover new favorite authors and places.
2. University of Gravel Roads: Global Lessons from a Four-Year Motorcycle Adventure, by Rene Cormier
Rene Cormier recounts his transformative journey around the world on a motorcycle, beginning at the age of 33. Trade possessions for experiences, his travels took him through captivating locations and introduced him to fascinating people. His candid writing and vivid photography bring to life the diverse cultures and landscapes that many can only dream of experiencing.
Discover more about his journey here.
3. Zen and Now: On the Trail of Robert Pirsig and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, by Mark Richardson
Taking a page from Robert Pirsig's classic, this book follows Mark Richardson as he retraces Pirsig's route from Minneapolis to San Francisco 25 years later. Mixing travel narrative with philosophical reflections, Richardson explores the importance of the journey over the destination, providing readers with a thought-provoking read.
Check out this reflective journey here.
4. Lone Rider: The First British Woman to Ride Around the World, by Elspeth Beard
In this captivating memoir, Elspeth Beard recounts her remarkable 35,000-mile solo journey on her BMW motorcycle at just 23. The narrative dives into the challenges she faced, including surviving life-threatening illnesses and navigating political upheaval—all in a time without modern communication tools. Published recently, this story is a powerful testament to courage and resilience.
Read her extraordinary tale here.
5. Revolutionary Ride: On the Road in Search of the Real Iran, by Lois Pryce
Lois Pryce embarked on a daring solo motorcycle trip through Iran in 2011, defying warnings and skepticism. Through her blend of humor and insight, she showcases the warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people, providing readers with a rare glimpse into a country often misunderstood. Her narrative is filled with moments of connection, laughter, and wonder.
Learn more about her journey here.
6. FORKS: A Quest for Culture, Cuisine, and Connection. Three Years. Five Continents, by Alan Karl
Alan Karl's engaging narrative chronicles his three-year motorcycle journey through 35 countries, using food as a lens to connect with diverse cultures. His storytelling, combined with stunning photographs and recipes, provides an enriching and sensory experience for the reader, showcasing how travel leads to profound personal discoveries.
Dive into his culinary adventures here.
7. Jupiter’s Travels: Four Years Around the World on a Triumph, by Ted Simon
When Ted Simon set out to see the world on his motorcycle in 1973 at age 42, he opened his life to the beauty and struggle of global adventure. His book captures the essence of his experiences, from intersecting lives to witnessing political upheaval. Now in his 80s, Simon remains an influential voice in the motorcycle adventure community through his foundation that inspires others to embark on their own journeys.
Read about his eye-opening travels here.
8. Grace and Grit: Motorcycle Dispatches from Early Twentieth Century American Women Adventurers, by Bill Murphy
Bill Murphy's account highlights the journey of early female motorcyclists. It dives into historical challenges these women faced, such as scarce resources and societal norms. The narrative celebrates the spirit of adventure by revisiting the trailblazers who paved the way for women in motorcycling, providing inspiration for all riders.
9. Tortillas to Totems: Motorcycling Mexico, the USA, and Canada. Sidetracked by the Unexpected, by Sam Manicom
Join Sam Manicom as he documents his memorable travels across three countries. With vivid storytelling and an intimate connection to the landscapes and cultures, his work brings the reader along dramatic twists and turns, revealing the beauty and unpredictability of motorcycle travel.
Check out his captivating journey here.
10. Motorcycle Adventure Calendar, Horizons Unlimited
This creative calendar features stunning photographs taken by motorcycle adventurers around the globe. Each month offers a new visual feast that will surely inspire your own travel plans and goals for the upcoming season.
Get inspired by the calendar here.
Settle into your favorite reading nook, grab a warm drink, and let these incredible adventures transport you to the open road until it's time to take your own motorcycle out for a ride.
The post Ten Inspiring Motorcycle Travel Books to Fuel Your Wanderlust This Winter appeared first on Riders Plus Insurance.
