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4.13 AVERAGE
4.13 AVERAGE
I read this book in only a couple days. I really enjoyed reading about the longest, oldest and biggest bike tour in the the world. Not only was it fun to find out how it started (by accident), but I loved meeting the unique characters of RAGBRAI, reading the ancedotes and even the explainations of how they tackled the huge logistical challenges was entertaining. If you are an avid cyclist you will enjoy this book, whether you have ever heard of RAGBRAI or not.
You've either ridden on RAGBRAI, or you haven't. I am of the former (though only within the past five years), and so much of the book resonates with me as one who shares much of the experience. It was fascinating to hear about early decisions and events, the aftermath of which resonate in how RAGBRAI continues to operate in 2021 and beyond.
But, if you have not ridden, or are not an Iowan, I'm not sure how helpful the book is. At times it detours into "in-jokes" that aren't easily grasped by outsiders. It is a bit dated (covering only the first 20-25 years), and so misses out on what RAGBRAI is today. And, Karras is an author whose writing is perhaps better suited to newsprint than a book.
With that all said, it is a delight to hear the words directly from one of RAGBRAI's founders. And it is with a bit of sadness, too. I grabbed this book because Mr. Karras passed away earlier this month. I did get a photo-op with him on a picnic bench a few years ago during a Karras Loop (optional route to bring a rider's daily mileage over 100, also known as a Century Ride)--I wish I would have had the time to speak with him at length to hear these stories first-hand.
Thanks for the memories, John. Tailwinds and downhills, and a cold one in the next meeting town.
But, if you have not ridden, or are not an Iowan, I'm not sure how helpful the book is. At times it detours into "in-jokes" that aren't easily grasped by outsiders. It is a bit dated (covering only the first 20-25 years), and so misses out on what RAGBRAI is today. And, Karras is an author whose writing is perhaps better suited to newsprint than a book.
With that all said, it is a delight to hear the words directly from one of RAGBRAI's founders. And it is with a bit of sadness, too. I grabbed this book because Mr. Karras passed away earlier this month. I did get a photo-op with him on a picnic bench a few years ago during a Karras Loop (optional route to bring a rider's daily mileage over 100, also known as a Century Ride)--I wish I would have had the time to speak with him at length to hear these stories first-hand.
Thanks for the memories, John. Tailwinds and downhills, and a cold one in the next meeting town.