Lone Rider

The First British Woman to Motorcycle Around the World

By: Elspeth Beard

Narrated by: Wendy Wolfson

In 1982, at the age of just 23 and halfway through her architecture studies, Elspeth Beard left her family and friends in London and set off on a 35,000-mile solo adventure around the world on her 1974 BMW R60/6.

Reeling from a recent breakup and with only limited savings from her pub job, a tent, a few clothes, and some tools, all packed on the back of her bike, she was determined to prove herself. She had ridden bikes since her teens and was well-traveled. But nothing could prepare her for what lay ahead.

When she returned to London nearly two-and-a-half years later she was stones lighter and decades wiser. She'd ridden through unforgiving landscapes and countries ravaged by war, witnessed civil uprisings that forced her to fake documents, and fended off sexual attacks, biker gangs, and corrupt police convinced she was trafficking drugs. She'd survived life-threatening illnesses, personal loss, and brutal accidents that had left permanent scars and a black hole in her memory. And she'd fallen in love with two very different men.

In an age before email, the internet, mobile phones, satnavs, and, in some parts of the world, readily available and reliable maps, Elspeth achieved something that would still seem remarkable today. Told with honesty and wit, this is the extraordinary and moving story of a unique and life-changing adventure.

©2018 Elspeth Beard (P)2019 Elspeth Beard

What an amazing story.....layered and unstoppable

This is a beautiful a story that many can relate to who have travelled solo on a motorcycle,thoroughly engaging story ,Elspeth Beards ability to describe many things which come to the reader and transcends us on a journey as though with her personally is wonderful,I was saddened when the story ended,as a BMW rider and traveller I stand in awe at her marvellous book,long live the lone rider👍

Wonderful story

This story is Inspiring and heart breaking. It is A true story of love and adventure.

Well written and expertly narrated

I found myself wanting to pull up a map of the world and pinpoint the various locations of her story. A very pleasant and engaging storyline.

Not just a motorcycle adventure, but a real memoir.

The performance was excellent, the writing was moving and easily digestible. I found myself really caring about these people. Even knowing the ending, I'll probably listen to it again.

Real, very Real

To the Author, Cannot help but appreciate the Tenacity and determination that it took to accomplish and what you did .
I wish I could have your panniers , But I am not willing to go through what you went through to get them.
From Rider to another well Done.