Bikers' Bookshelf

This is a pictorial diary of a once-in-a-lifetime motorbike trip across 35 countries, and a practical guide to motorcycling round the world what to do first, what to plan for, and how to cope with the unexpected. Features stunning photography, details of bike modifications, route maps, points of interest, and practical guidance on freighting your bike. This book captures one man’s real of experience motorcycling around the globe no back up teams, no spare bikes, no film crews. 42,000 miles through 35 countries, seeing amazing things, meeting fascinating people, experiencing different cultures and coping with extremely challenging conditions.

This book is not only proof anyone can do it, but also a guide as to how to do it. It is not a technical guide, but rather a broad-brush approach covering some of the key tasks needed to plan and complete a similar trip yourself. With dozens of inspirational photos of stunning scenery and intense experiences, plus an informal, straightforward commentary, this is an eye-opening and practical account of biking around the world.

Jonathan Yates has always been a keen traveller, backpacking Australia and Asia immediately after graduating from university. His father’s motorcycling exploits on a BSA Bantam back in the 60s left a lasting impression, encouraging him to finally pass his bike test in 1999. The combination of wanderlust and a motorcycle licence proved a great temptation. Jonathan soon part-exchanged his Yamaha Fazer for a Ténéré, and the trip was on. He left the UK on the Eurostar, riding east to Beijing before continuing through South East Asia, Australia and the Americas during a one-year sabbatical. This book details how to organise such a trip, and features a series of daily photographs capturing Jonathan’s own experiences on his amazing journey.