JAPANESE STEEL: CLASSIC BICYCLE DESIGN FROM JAPAN and CYCLING PARADISES: 100 BIKE TOURS OF THE WORLD'S MOST BREATHTAKING PLACES TO PEDAL.

Some of you may know, some of you may not - but I'm a junky for a spin class. It's true. There's something about the repetition of pedaling, the music and the cool, crisp air that suddenly turns sauna like under the 45-minutes of duress, that just gets me excited. So, naturally, when Rizzoli published two books on cycling back to back, I had to give them a look.

The first.

JAPANESE STEEL: CLASSIC BICYCLE DESIGN FROM JAPAN

Certainly more beautiful than the spin bikes at the gym, this beautiful volume catalogs the golden age of Japanese bicycle design, which took place between the 1950s and 1980s. During that time period, Japan produced some of the most sophisticated, cutting edge, and stylish bicycles for both competitive and recreational cycling. In fact, they've become quite collectible. From major factories to true artists building bespoke bikes, this beautiful coffee table book features photographs and illustrations of beautiful machines. Let's take a look:

If you have a friend, loved one, or if you yourself are interested in cycling, this is a must-have. 212 brilliant pages of unique and fascinating design, AND what's better - I get the benefit of looking like a real professional cyclist with this on the table! Take a look at it and order your copy via the Amazon link below:

The second.

CYCLING PARADISES: 100 BIKE TOURS OF THE WORLDS MOST BREATHTAKING PLACES

This one I was most excited about. I mean, as someone who loves to cycle (albeit on a completely stationary bike) and who loves to travel - this one was one I was eager to flip through. Paperback, lightweight, perfect for packing for the vacation - or just for a long car ride where you long to think about the perfect vacation - this book has some of the most stunning photographs I've ever seen. 

It's not just a picture book though, it's a carefully curated guide for cycling daredevils and enthusiasts, and that guy at a stationary bike spin class at the gym - like me. The author, Claude Droussent, is a French cycling expert - and he knows his way around the world on two wheels. Each tour is rated on length, duration, elevation, difficulty, even places to hop off and venture on foot while you're on your route. 

It even includes a bike route through Peru (wish I had known), lets take a look: 

Another great book to think about for your Christmas gift giving - a great idea for anyone bit by the travel bug, or who loves the feel of being on a bike - stationary or otherwise. Take a look, and order your copy below: