For the purposes of the book, Melbourne is split up into three zones – Central, Northern & Western Metro, and Southern & Eastern Metro. A fold-out map inside the front cover shows where each ride is located. Many of the rides are loop rides, which make transport a breeze, and there are also some handy routes listed, like the city to the airport run. Although there are (really good!) dedicated road and mountain bike rides, the majority are road-and-path combos.

Each route has a dedicated four pages which include notes on terrain, traffic, how to get there and away, best places to eat and drink, possible side trips and general explanatory notes about the route. A difficulty rating is included and also a ride profile, showing where and how high the hills en route are.

The next two pages include a ride log – really only useful for those with a trip computer on their bikes – and a map. The map is not very detailed and is hard to follow without the ride log notes; it provides an overview of the ride rather than being something to follow closely. On the upside, it does show places of interest, like train stations, toilets and amenities, along the route.

The book itself is produced with touring in mind, being sturdy with ring-bound laminated pages. Explanatory notes at the start, such as riding codes of conduct and using public transport with your bike, provide useful information to new riders.

Its attractive appearance, with colour-coded everything and bright photographs, would make this a great gift. However, some people might find the $35 price tag a bit off-putting considering the high number of ads throughout.

WheretoRide Melbourne
By David Russell
Bicycling Australia | 2008 | RRP $34.95

REVIEWED BY: Lisa Dempster