Richard Ballantine facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Ballantine
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| Born | 25 July 1940 Kingston, New York, United States |
| Died | 29 May 2013 (aged 72) London, England, United Kingdom |
| Occupation | Author |
| Alma mater | Browning School Columbia University |
| Genre | Cycling |
| Notable works | Richard's Bicycle Book |
| Spouse | Sherry Ballantine |
| Children | 3 |
Richard Ballantine (born July 25, 1940 – died May 29, 2013) was an American writer and journalist. He was famous for writing about cycling. He also worked to encourage more people to ride bikes. Richard was the son of Ian and Betty Ballantine, who started Ballantine Books. He grew up in New York but lived mostly in London, England.
Contents
Richard's Bicycle Book
Richard Ballantine's most famous work was Richard's Bicycle Book. It was first published in 1972. This book became very popular when more people started cycling. This was partly because of the world oil crisis in 1973. Also, new lightweight road bikes were becoming available.
What Was in the Book?
The book was full of useful information about bikes. It shared the history of the bicycle. It also explained different bike designs and types. You could find guides on how to take care of your bike. The book also had tips on how to fit a bike properly. Richard added his own funny thoughts and ideas throughout the book.
Encouraging Cycling
Richard's Bicycle Book helped many new cyclists. It taught them about riding bikes to work or school. It also showed them how to go on long bike trips. The book was an early example of bicycle advocacy. This means it supported cycling and cyclists.
Richard believed that cyclists had a right to use the roads. He thought that roads should be safe for everyone. This included people on bikes.
Book Editions
Over the years, Richard's Bicycle Book was updated many times. Some later versions included Richard's New Bicycle Book (1987). Another was Richard's 21st Century Bicycle Book (2000).
Human Powered Vehicles
Richard Ballantine was also a big part of the human powered vehicle (HPV) movement. This movement started in the 1980s. HPVs are vehicles powered only by a person, like a bicycle. He was very active in HPV racing.
He was the chairman of two important groups. These were the British Human Power Club and the World Human Powered Vehicle Association.
About Richard's Life
Richard Ballantine was married. He had three children.
