Routes, rides, rants and raves about the city and the bike

People everywhere are taking to their bikes: from urbanites to tourists, families to commuters fed up with the daily grind of transport and traffic.

Detailing the early history of the city's love affair with the bicycle, along with an array of ideas and thoughts for the Melbourne rider, The Casual Cyclist's Guide brings afresh and entertaining perspective to this much-loved mode of transport.

When it's time to ride, a series of hand-drawn maps illustrate original routes that explore the city's architecture, little-known backstreets, picturesque picnic spots, pools, pubs and cafes old and new.

An ode and an aid to the endless possibilities a day on the bike can bring, this beautifully designed package is an essential item for the Mel bourn ite on two wheels or the visitor from afar.

Creative entrepreneur Matt Hurst—founder of bike-hire service The Humble Vintage, as well as the writer behind the cult map and guide series Melbourne for Visitors and Casual Cyclists—has brought together a collection of guests ranging from architects to chefs, historians to designers, to create a one-of-a-kind collection of riding routes, stories, anecdotes and observations.