Wheels on Ice: Stories of Cycling in Alaska

Wheels on Ice showcases Alaska's significance in bicycling, from the first bicycle boom to the invention of the fatbike and ultra-endurance cyclist Lael Wilcox's 4,500-mile journey. The collection inspires cyclists to create their own stories in Alaska and beyond.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 22 November 2022
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Wheels on Ice explores Alaska's pivotal position in bicycling, serving as both a mode of transportation and an endurance sport. Additionally, it captivates those seeking a challenging encounter with nature. This collection commences with the initial bicycle boom and the introduction of the safety bicycle in the late 1800s, coinciding with the discovery of gold in Alaska and the Yukon Territory. Alaskans played a significant role in bicycle innovation, exemplified by the development of the fatbike, which emerged from the mountain bike in the late 1980s. This transformation resulted in a wider-framed bike equipped with fatter tires, enhancing accessibility for snow biking and giving rise to the Iditabike race. More recently, ultra-endurance cyclist Lael Wilcox embarked on a remarkable journey, traversing all major roads within the state, covering a staggering distance of over 4,500 miles.

Jessica Cherry and Frank Sooss' diverse collection of stories encompasses cycling across different eras and landscapes. These narratives range from everyday commuters braving various weather conditions to individuals embarking on long-distance adventures in the most remote regions of the United States. These stories serve as a source of inspiration for cyclists, encouraging them to create their own unique experiences in Alaska and beyond.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496232472