Customer Reviews

Against the Clock: The incredible story of the 7/49

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Ayers' first book, Against the Wind, is a thoughtful, well written travelogue that provides readers with fascinating insights into long-distance motorcycling--and one man's psyche. Against the Clock is none of that. This is a superfical hour-by-hour laundry list of what happened. During hour 456 deer number 38 crossed the road in front of me. On hour 675 I stopped for gas. This sort of prose is not just lacking in description, but totally uninteresting! Ron, it is the story behind the story that carries the narrative. This could have been a great book, but falls far short of that goal.

As good as Ron is at setting motorcycle endurance records, he is in a class by himself when it comes to successfully engaging the reader's interest in his travels and experiences on the road. Note to Peter Matthiessen, "Watch out!"

This is a great read for enthusiasts and arm chair endurance riders alike. I highly recommend "Against the Clock".

Not of the same caliber "Against the wind" was (5 star !). I think the author goes out of his way to thank the long distance riding community but it just isn't that great of a read.

I have now read all of Mr. Ayers books. He got me started in the madness and I am now an Iron Butt Member. I have yet to meet him, but this book is inspiring to say the least. It fully captures the essence of LD riding and its ups and downs. Ayers is a master rider and it clearly shows in his sharing his experience with all of us and his humility in his triumph. This is a must read for anyone who is interested in this type of hobby. Many of the names will be familiar to anyone associated with the IBA.

I have all of Ron's books. His first (Against the Wind) is the apex of the lot but "Against the Clock" is engaging and entertaining; worth the cost of entry. I followed Ron's exploits as he was doing the ride; reading reports from his "home base" (family) as well as those who met him at stops along the way (some of their photos are included in this book). While reading this book the shouts of, "Go, Ron. GO!!!", ring in my head as they did while the ride was taking place.

I purchased this book for my husband because he has other Ron Ayres books. He enjoyed it very much.