Dear Listers,
I've a book written by Peter Duker, Englishman, chronicling his 1971-72 around the world ride on a 1971 Raleigh Pro. Imagine, around the world on a Pro with just a small saddle bag. The bike was not custom, sporting Weinmann center pulls. He was supported much of the way, and seemed to drink every chance he got. Also tried to set the equivalent of a RAAM record in the states on a new full-Campagnolo Pro.
Sponsored by Raleigh, he had many publicity receptions arranged, and support, including by Ron Kitching in Australia. But much of the ride, he rode alone, stayed in motels. Descriptions of riding through Afghanistan, Pakistan and India were rather horrid.
Quite a witty read, and he pulls no punches. On American bicycle buying fad of the time: " America is also not a bike-racing nation, although it is now buying more racing bicycles than any other country. This phenomenon, as far as I can see, is due to typical America fad-ism, rather like the hula-hoop craze, but infinitely more expensive." "They do have pukka racing men who are eager to learn the game, but these are shoved into the background by the thousands of 'keep up with the Jones's' who must have a ten speed at any cost. It's an incredible situation, only possible in the U.S. An example of the attitude is the sight of customers who buy the bicycle by weight. By this I mean they hang into on a scale in the shop to get the lightest one possible, then in order to safeguard their purchase, they buy an enormous lick and chain which weighs as much,or more, than the bike does."
A great read. Wondering if some our UK friends have experiences with the irreverent Duker?
John Siemsen
Portland, Oregon, USA