The Hardmen: Legends and Lessons from the Cycling Gods Hardcover – November 7, 2017

Wonderful tales about the strongest writers and the most determined human beings in history or worthwhile read for any fan of cycling

A good read. Well written and insightful with some typical Velominati commentary and humor (read "the Rules"). Organized so you can read small, topical "articles" rather than plow through the whole book to get the point - of which there is an abundance. Professional cycling has lots of interesting characters and a diverse history. This book delivers a broad look at both. If you are a cyclist you will enjoy it.

If you followed the golden age of cycling, this book is a must read with vignettes of all the top riders. Masterful observations and rigorously and refreshingly opinionated. I could have kept reading indefinitely, and hope the authors will consider a second book on "hard stages" or the like - covering notable one-day races as they have done with a few of the riders in this book. Lemond's 99 World's, for one example.

Enjoying this a lot, and know I will enjoy returning to snatches as much in the future.The Rules are an interesting set of ideas, though not fully applicable to all who ride seriously. I, for example, am 72 years old, and ride almost every day. I can't ride with the absolute abandon of the The Hardmen any longer. So, for example, a rule addition I propose is:Your absolute effort on any section of road should not exceed n+1, where n = your current age. In other words, ride to live another year before riding to kill yourself on this flat/hill/sprint. Working for me...Another rule addition: the number of pieces of kit or gear that you need for the bikes you already own is n + 2, where n = the total number of pieces of gear/kit/tools you already own. You don't need another bike at age 72, but you do need gear and kit and ttools.Loved reading about some of my old heroes. Almost no one even remembers Edwig Van Hooydonck any more.Additional thoughts on The Rules:It is permissible to ride on the small ring when your age exceeds the number of teeth on the large ring.It is permissible to ride in team kit provided that the team is no longer active and you can name at least one personal hero who rode for that team. Likewise, you can wear retired team cycling caps at any time.

Kind of a hard read unless you enjoy memorizing European names. The plus is it includes all of the corny rules of biking!

As an enthusiast I love the information, wit and wisdom that this trio of over the top writers provides. Great stuff for those addicted to the lifestyle.

I enjoyed this entertaining recounting of the key situations that clinched the “Hardman” status of the great cyclists described in the book. Fun and entertaining read with lots of inspiration for further meditation on the V.

Wasn't at all sure what this book might offer. Must say it was a total delight! Wanted many more pages and at least 50 more rules. Bravo, Velominati!