Roads Were Not Built For Cars by Carlton Reid

In Roads Were Not Built for Cars, Carlton Reid uncovers the often-overlooked contributions of cyclists to the development of modern roadways. The book introduces readers to influential cycling personalities and advocacy groups that drove early road improvements, ultimately paving the way for motor vehicles. Reid explores how the perception of bicycles shifted from a symbol of progressive transport to a mode of transportation for the less affluent, and how many early motorists were once avid cyclists. Through engaging narratives and meticulous research, Reid encourages readers to recognize and celebrate the shared history between cycling and motor transportation. This book is not just a historical account but also a call to appreciate the interconnectedness of different modes of transport. Reid's work sheds light on the often-forgotten links between cycling and motor travel, challenging the modern perception that these modes of transport are worlds apart. By revisiting this shared history, Roads Were Not Built for Cars offers a fresh perspective on the evolution of transportation and the enduring influence of cycling on our roadways.

Reviews

Roads and Rights for All · 2015-01-04

insightful 4.25

The book effectively illustrates the historical shift in road usage dominance from cyclists to motor vehicles. It is praised for its detailed research and engaging narrative.

Carlton Reid's book is a revisionist history that places cyclists at the heart of the story of road development. The reviewer finds the book's detailed research and engaging narrative compelling, highlighting how the dominance of motor vehicles is a relatively recent phenomenon. The book is seen as an essential read for understanding the historical context of road usage and the role of cyclists in advocating for better roads. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to challenge common misconceptions and provide a fresh perspective on transportation history.

Quick quotes

Carlton Reid provides us with a splendid illustration of how the dominance of the motor vehicle has developed over a short period of time.

A revisionist history of cars and roads, putting cyclists and cycling at the heart of the story.

This fascinating insight into the origin of roads will break down some road ownership issues, and help promote harmony for all road users.

The Guardian · 2014-12-23

informative 4.00

The book is a well-researched argument against the notion that roads were built primarily for cars, highlighting the historical contributions of cyclists. It challenges the common belief that motorists have always dominated road usage.

This book is a meticulously researched and closely argued piece that debunks the myth that roads were built for cars. It provides a detailed history of how cyclists were instrumental in advocating for better roads long before the automobile era. The reviewer appreciates the thorough research and the compelling arguments presented, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in transportation history. However, the book might be too detailed for casual readers, as it delves deeply into historical data and arguments.

Quick quotes

This book is a closely argued, meticulously researched retort to all those Mr Toads who not only think that they own the roads, but also that they've always ...

Carlton Reid provides us with a splendid illustration of how the dominance of the motor vehicle has developed over a short period of time.

Comprehensive enough to be classed as an essential reference, but sadly will probably not achieve the audience it deserves.

Goodreads · 2014-01-01

detailed 4.00

The book is well-researched but can be dry at times, with some chapters being overly long. It provides excellent detail on the history of road development.

This book is highly praised for its extensive research and detailed history of road development. However, the reviewer notes that it can be dry at times, with some chapters being overly long and dense. Despite this, the book is seen as an excellent resource for those interested in the history of transportation. The reviewer appreciates the depth of information provided but suggests that it might not be the best choice for casual readers looking for a light read. Overall, the book is considered a valuable contribution to the understanding of road history.

Quick quotes

Excellent book. It can get dry at times (Chp 15 was about 10 times as long as I could handle) but Reid goes into excellent detail on the history ...

One of these books has to be 'Roads Were Not Built for Cars' by Carlton Reid, an exceptionally well-researched book whose very title is ...

The book researches the Roads Improvement Association - a lobbying group created by the Cyclists' Touring Club in 1886 - and the Good Roads movement organised ...

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