Art of Urban Cycling

Satisfying discussion of street cycling issues. Partically illuminating on the different cycling philosophies. Now I know that the 'ride like a car and you'll be treated like one" assimulationists are called vehicular style cyclists, while the 'make your own' rules people assume that cars don't see you. This book strikes a nice balance. He's the mature, tempering voice of common sense. Also interesting history showing how cyclists were once considered the SUVs of the road in their speed and arrogant disrespect of pedestrian traffic and horses; and the most comprehensive telling, that I've read, of the conspiracy by oil and auto interests to buy and destroy all the street car systems.

For how-to skills, I still prefere the illustated comic book style of Urban Bikers' Tricks & Tips despite its rather controversial take on illegal and dangerous moves. This book is too much to read when you want to get out on the bike and the other is packed with tons more information on road skills.