The event organizer is also an award-winning author writing under various pen names.

Two wheels and a Will is the definitive book on bikepacking. It’s a real-life adventure story that reads like a novel. It follows the participants of the first Ultra Bike Pursuit event. You’ll love reading it if you enjoy living adventures vicariously. It’s also filled with practical and technical information. Cyclists of all levels and disciplines will gain insight into preparing for their first (or hundredth) mountain ride.

Non-cycling ultra-endurance athletes will appreciate the section on sleep deprivation, power naps, hydration, and nutrition. For those who wish to visit the Pyrenees, you’ll also find anecdotes and short stories on culture, food, and history, in addition to superb mountain road descriptions. All the technical information is nicely embedded in the book without breaking the flow of the story.

In summary, you don’t need to be a cyclist to enjoy this epic tale, but if you enjoy or consider trying bikepacking, or any ultra-endurance sports, it could be the best source of inspiration and tips you’ll find.

For more real-life adventure books from J-Philippe Soule (Colin Hunter), you can visit his author’s page: www.jpsoule.com

“I wish this book had existed when I started training for ultras in 2016 as it has many useful insights and much valuable information but beyond that it is actually a very enjoyable read that has me wanting to return to the wonderful Pyrenees even more so than I already did.”

— Christo

“Colin Hunter has captured the adventures of a group of very different cyclists facing extreme challenges in an epic race. He explores their very different and individual approaches to the contest, illustrating clearly that the competition in these ultra-distance events is mostly internal. You may seldom encounter another competitor, and have little idea of their progress. What matters to you is your own journey, and that is reflected by your preparation, planning and motivation.

For anyone with an interest in the sport of bike packing competition, there are detailed discussions of how to pack, what to pack and what to leave behind. This is a very necessary skill for successful competition and bike packing in general. When climbing is involved, weight becomes critical; the discussion is clear and sensible. There are also clear and detailed investigations of the importance of nutrition and the effects of tire size and inflation pressures. A wealth of information; every detail is critical.

I have been bike packing for more than fifty years and find that I am still learning and refining my approach. I heartily recommend this book to anyone interested in the sport and will order copies for my friends.”

— John P. Sprock