The Rider

by Tim Krabbé, Tim Krabbe
The Rider cover
Good Books rating 4.44
Sports Fiction
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Technical
  • ID: 6092
  • Added: 2025-11-01
  • Updated: 2025-11-06
  • ISBN: 9781635574197
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing USA
  • Published: 2018-08-16
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4

The Rider is a passionate tribute to the sport of bicycle road racing, originally published in Holland in 1978 and beloved by bike enthusiasts and arm-chair sports fans alike. Tim Krabbé's vivid storytelling takes readers on a 150-kilometer journey through the mountains of Central France, capturing the essence of the sport and the dedication of its athletes. /n/n Written at a break-neck pace, this literary masterpiece is a must-read for anyone who loves the thrill of competition and the beauty of the open road. The Rider is more than just a book about biking; it's a celebration of the human spirit and the pursuit of excellence.

Reviews
Defector · 2025-06-12
brilliant 4.50

The book uses metaphors to describe suffering and avoids physical language, making it a unique read. It stands out as a deeply personal and introspective take on bike racing.

The reviewer found 'The Rider' to be a standout sports book due to its unique approach to describing the physical and mental aspects of bike racing. Instead of relying on physical language, the book uses metaphors to convey the experience, which makes it a deeply personal and introspective read. This approach sets it apart from other sports books and makes it a memorable and thought-provoking read. The reviewer also appreciates the book's ability to capture the essence of bike racing in a way that is both poetic and profound.

Quick quotes

    The Rider is remarkably light on physical language.

    Suffering is described in metaphors, and Krabbe shies away from conceiving of bike racing in terms of...

    It stands out as a deeply personal and introspective take on bike racing.

Vicious Cycle Blog · 2020-09-05
excellent 4.75

The book is a favorite among cycling enthusiasts and offers a unique perspective on the sport. It is a classic novel that is both insightful and engaging.

The reviewer considers 'The Rider' to be their favorite cycling book, based on reading frequency. The book offers a unique perspective on the sport, focusing on the story of a Dutch amateur racer. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to capture the essence of bike racing in a way that is both insightful and engaging. The reviewer also notes that the book's classic status is well-deserved, as it offers a deep and nuanced look into the world of cycling.

Quick quotes

    This classic novel is – if reading frequency is any indication – my favorite cycling book.

    It is the story of a Dutch man, racing at the amateur...

    It is a favorite among cycling enthusiasts and offers a unique perspective on the sport.

Road.cc · 2016-08-24
brilliant 4.50

The book is considered a modern-day classic and one of the best books ever written about cycling. It is brilliantly conceived and best read at a breakneck pace.

The reviewer hails 'The Rider' as a modern-day classic and one of the best books ever written about cycling. The book's brilliance lies in its conception and pacing, which makes it a thrilling read. The reviewer suggests that the book is best enjoyed at a breakneck pace, mirroring the intensity of a bike race. This approach enhances the reading experience and makes the book a standout in the genre of sports literature.

Quick quotes

    The Rider is a modern-day classic.

    It is recognised as one of the best books ever written about the sport.

    Brilliantly conceived and best read at a break-neck pace.

Reading Matters Blog · 2011-03-30
great 4.00

The book is praised for its ability to perfectly describe the delight of cycling. The reviewer loved the author's skill in capturing the essence of the sport.

The reviewer was captivated by 'The Rider' for its vivid descriptions of the joy and exhilaration of cycling. The author's ability to capture the essence of the sport is commendable, making the book a delightful read for cycling enthusiasts. The reviewer particularly appreciated the way the book conveys the sheer delight of being on a saddle, making it a memorable and enjoyable read.

Quick quotes

    What I loved about this novel is Krabbé's ability to so perfectly describe that feeling of sheer delight when you are on a saddle.

    Krabbé's ability to capture the essence of the sport.

    A delightful read for cycling enthusiasts.

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