Cycle Magic Book Launch – a celebration of stories, bikes and community

On Thursday 6th November we were thrilled to host the launch of Cycle Magic at the historic York Medical Society – a stunning location that set the perfect backdrop for an evening of conversation, connection, and celebration.

Cycle Magic is the most comprehensive book ever published on cycling, filled with over 1,000 colour illustrations and 384 pages of stories, insights, and surprises. Author Jim McGurn, drawing on decades of experience in cycling promotion, explores everything from the history and culture of cycling, to technology, bike love, sport, art, and radical perspectives on what bicycles can achieve. Laced with humour and fascinating facts, it’s a book for anyone who loves cycling – or wants to discover its magic.

The event was wonderfully well attended, offering an excellent opportunity for networking and connecting with peers from across the cycling community. Among our guests was Rachel Maskell, local MP for York Central, whose presence highlighted the strong support for cycling initiatives in the area.

Highlights of the evening included a fantastic talk and presentation from Jim McGurn, the author, and Chris Pengilley, CEO of Get Cycling CIC. Guests were also treated to a short talk from Anna Semlyn, co-author of some sections of the book. The atmosphere was warm and engaging, complemented by delicious food and drinks, making it a truly memorable evening.

Jim reflected on the event with his characteristic humour, saying:
“I really appreciated the company of so many amazing people from the cycling world. I hesitate to call them ‘movers and shakers’ in case that makes them fall off their bike.”

Overall, the launch was not only a celebration of the book itself but also a chance to strengthen connections within the cycling community. We are so grateful to everyone who came, contributed, and made the evening a success.

Cycle Magic can be purchased here along with Jim’s previous publication On Your Bike.