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Road Racer: It's in My Blood
THE SUNDAY TIMES NUMBER-ONE BESTSELLER.Michael Dunlop is quite simply the greatest road racer on the planet. Brother of William, also an accomplished rider, son of the late Robert and nephew of the late great Joey Dunlop, Michael can fairly claim that racing is in his blood. Now for the first time he talks in depth about his family story, how he got involved in the family business and how he manages to keep getting back on his bike despite all he knows of the deadly risks he encounters every time he crosses the start line.The death of his uncle during a competition in Estonia in 2000 was followed just eight years later by the death of his father at the North West 200. But despite these tragic losses Michael was undeterred and, two days after his father’s death, he returned to the North West, and won. The next year Michael won his first TT, joining both his father and uncle in the record books.Now with thirteen TT wins to his name Michael is a phenomenal competitor, and in this sensational autobiography he reveals the highs and lows of racing, what it was like growing up part of a motorcycle dynasty and how that made him the incredible racing driver he is today.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2017
77 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 14, 2019
Enjoyable autobiography including Michael's childhood, upbringing and early career.
I felt like I got a good look into Michael's psyche and it was an interesting accompaniment to watching the Isle of Man TT this year.
It really enhanced my viewing pleasure when I had an insight into what a lot of the riders are going through and all the hard work that goes into getting to the TT.
Michael's story is extra special because of his family history, his unique riding style and his no nonsense personality.
I felt like I got a good look into Michael's psyche and it was an interesting accompaniment to watching the Isle of Man TT this year.
It really enhanced my viewing pleasure when I had an insight into what a lot of the riders are going through and all the hard work that goes into getting to the TT.
Michael's story is extra special because of his family history, his unique riding style and his no nonsense personality.
October 1, 2020
The story of Michael Dunlop is, if you know the history of the Dunlop family, a very hard book to read. The hardest part is the events that unfolded during the 2008 Northwest 200 when his father, Robert, was killed during practice and Michael and his brother William insisted on racing. I was there at the Northwest when Michael took the win and no one had a dry eye. Reading about it again stirred the same emotions.
Sadly, William also lost his life to road racing in 2018.
This is a book all motorcycle racing fans should read.
Sadly, William also lost his life to road racing in 2018.
This is a book all motorcycle racing fans should read.
September 1, 2024
I have never read any non fiction book as fast as this one. The conversational style of narrative and sense of humour made me feel like I am in a pub having a pint and listening to it being told by the author himself. Definitely will have to reread it and put a few tabs on the most colourful expressions 😁
I have utmost respect for the craft and determination of a road race since finishing the book. And definitely going to explore the sport and its people further.
I have utmost respect for the craft and determination of a road race since finishing the book. And definitely going to explore the sport and its people further.
July 27, 2017
Class, just class..
This is an excellent read from start to finish, even if your not a huge motorcycle racing fan, you would still enjoy this. Michael tells his story like he's talking to you in the pub, and I like that. It's an honest, no bullsh#t account of an extraordinary life lived in the public eye from a young age. (Because of his famous Dad and uncle) This book made me cry and laugh out loud in parts, I didn't want to put it down. As an ex two stroke racer myself, I have read many "racers" books, some I gave up on after just a couple of chapters in, but this book was different, this book is not about blowing smoke up your arse, "how great am I" type of crap, it's open, honest, and a bloody good insight into racing and the people in it. Not since reading "Hizzy's" book have I been so moved. This might not win any literary awards any time soon, but it's award winning to me. Well done Michael your Da would be proud.
This is an excellent read from start to finish, even if your not a huge motorcycle racing fan, you would still enjoy this. Michael tells his story like he's talking to you in the pub, and I like that. It's an honest, no bullsh#t account of an extraordinary life lived in the public eye from a young age. (Because of his famous Dad and uncle) This book made me cry and laugh out loud in parts, I didn't want to put it down. As an ex two stroke racer myself, I have read many "racers" books, some I gave up on after just a couple of chapters in, but this book was different, this book is not about blowing smoke up your arse, "how great am I" type of crap, it's open, honest, and a bloody good insight into racing and the people in it. Not since reading "Hizzy's" book have I been so moved. This might not win any literary awards any time soon, but it's award winning to me. Well done Michael your Da would be proud.
August 20, 2017
I have to admit I'm not really into bike racing, I bought this for my dad for father's day and he gave it back to me after he'd read it. I picked it up to read a chapter or two in bed and before I knew it I was halfway through, only stopping because the book hit my face as I nodded off. I just had to finish it next morning.
I was only vaguely aware of the Dunlop name and the general TT fame. This is a gripping story following 4 legends of the Dunlop name through triumph and a lot of tragedy. 2 of the 4 Dunlops lost their lives doing what they loved, arguably the greatest 2 at that. Losing those 2 would probably turn any normal man off the sport, but not if you're a Dunlop, that just spurs them on to be worthy of the name and boy have they done so!
Excellent read whether you're a bike fan or not!
I was only vaguely aware of the Dunlop name and the general TT fame. This is a gripping story following 4 legends of the Dunlop name through triumph and a lot of tragedy. 2 of the 4 Dunlops lost their lives doing what they loved, arguably the greatest 2 at that. Losing those 2 would probably turn any normal man off the sport, but not if you're a Dunlop, that just spurs them on to be worthy of the name and boy have they done so!
Excellent read whether you're a bike fan or not!
July 15, 2020
Well - greatest road racer on the planet? Its a big claim, but young Michael Dunlop has a decent claim to being the current best, and comes from road racing royalty of course. I really enjoyed this ghostwritten autobiography - his voice comes through clearly, as does his love of racing, family, bikes. It is written in a very clear conversational style, and gives good insight into Dunlop as a person - although not a great deal about the actual technique and experience of racing itself. He is the first to admit he is not much of a thinker or an introspective person, so don't come to the book hoping to learn much about the racing or his philosophy - but it does seem an honest and straightforward account of the man at the top of his game in this most dangerous of motorcycle racing styles. An easy enjoyable read for fans of the sport.
March 29, 2018
Worthwhile In A Larger Context
The Dunlop family saga as depicted in the must-see film "Road" is almost mythic in the Joseph Campbell sense. As a chapter in that larger story, this is certainly worth the read. Michael Dunlop is absolutely worthy of the family name and tradition in terms of his skills. His limited insight and empathy for other racers becomes tiresome. One wished for a Surtees or even Hailwood to live the tragic and moving story and then tell it with more compassion, human interest and less childish ego. Be hyper-competitive, Michael, fine, but do grow up a little please.
The Dunlop family saga as depicted in the must-see film "Road" is almost mythic in the Joseph Campbell sense. As a chapter in that larger story, this is certainly worth the read. Michael Dunlop is absolutely worthy of the family name and tradition in terms of his skills. His limited insight and empathy for other racers becomes tiresome. One wished for a Surtees or even Hailwood to live the tragic and moving story and then tell it with more compassion, human interest and less childish ego. Be hyper-competitive, Michael, fine, but do grow up a little please.
October 9, 2018
Absolutely incredible. This is the first autobiography I’ve ever read and I couldn’t put it down. I accidentally read an extract from it whilst in Northern Ireland, we were sitting in a bar and there was a spare newspaper on the table. I had a flick through and found the extract. It looked like an interesting read so I put on on my list of books to look at, and once I’d finished my current one I downloaded it. Every spare minute I was reading it, it’s a brilliant book. I cried in sorrow and I cried with happiness. It’s an interesting insight into the mind of someone with true determination, an addiction to winning that just keeps them fighting for more. Incredible story.
July 6, 2019
I’ve watched his whole family race on tv, I’ve watched them live , I’ve met him in the paddock and watched him being interviewed so it’s good to now see what’s going on on the inside ! This is a really good read from one of legendary family who have been showered in success but also tragedy by the amazing sport of road racing. Michael has a lot to prove and some big shoes to fill and it’s interesting to see how he went about it. Over the course of his career I had made some assumptions and judgements with his decisions to walk away from some teams and manufacturers....talk about judging a book by its cover ....I could not have been more wrong ...there really are two sides to every story!
November 23, 2022
Brilliant insight...
Into the World of Road Racing and the Dunlop Dynasty.
Being a former motorcyclist myself, visited the TT and North West 200, AND being born in Balleymoney, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, all my childhood summer holidays were in Portstewart where my Dad was brought up and home to my grandparents and family so I felt like I'd gone "Home" reading this.
Amazed at Michael's skill in a bike but, after reading this, his sheer strength and tenacity to get where he wants to go in life is to be admired.
Seriously good read and well recommended
Into the World of Road Racing and the Dunlop Dynasty.
Being a former motorcyclist myself, visited the TT and North West 200, AND being born in Balleymoney, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, all my childhood summer holidays were in Portstewart where my Dad was brought up and home to my grandparents and family so I felt like I'd gone "Home" reading this.
Amazed at Michael's skill in a bike but, after reading this, his sheer strength and tenacity to get where he wants to go in life is to be admired.
Seriously good read and well recommended
May 13, 2017
To be a road racer you have to have an edge about you, Michael Dunlop has this in buckets. He's refreshingly honest, he doesn't go to the gym, he likes his food, and he's a little bit cocky. He's also from a motorcycling family dynasty, the Dunlops. His father Robert and his uncle Joey were some of the greatest road racers ever, and Michael has followed in their footsteps as multiple Isle of Man TT winner. An interesting book with just as many off the bike battles, as to those on the track.
May 26, 2017
Just like the man...
It's not pretty, it's gritty and honest. He pulls no punches and tells the truth (or at least,says it the way he sees it). Michael Dunlop is 'old school' through and through, with no time for pretension and niceties. The world needs it's heroes and villains, and he's more than prepared to stand tall and admit he's a little of both. Love him or hate him, you have to respect him.
It's not pretty, it's gritty and honest. He pulls no punches and tells the truth (or at least,says it the way he sees it). Michael Dunlop is 'old school' through and through, with no time for pretension and niceties. The world needs it's heroes and villains, and he's more than prepared to stand tall and admit he's a little of both. Love him or hate him, you have to respect him.
December 7, 2017
Just Fantastic
This is not the wealth and glamour (and safety) of F1 or even Moto GP. This is Road Racing. Where money is scarce and the danger is very real. Being born a Dunlop, the most famous name in road racing must be quite a burden. This is the story of a real mans man, an overweight, massive steel balled racer. The fastest man around the famous Isle if Man TT circuit. It's a cracking read. Respect!
This is not the wealth and glamour (and safety) of F1 or even Moto GP. This is Road Racing. Where money is scarce and the danger is very real. Being born a Dunlop, the most famous name in road racing must be quite a burden. This is the story of a real mans man, an overweight, massive steel balled racer. The fastest man around the famous Isle if Man TT circuit. It's a cracking read. Respect!
June 29, 2018
Brutally honest and makes me have new found respect for Michael.
A great insite to the world of the ultimate motorcycle road racer and his desire to continue the legacy created by his dad and uncle.
The man clearly has all the skills and knowledge of riding motorcycles to perform at the highest level. This book allows you to taste a fraction of the adrenaline that must course through his veins., And like it says on the tin Its in his blood.
A great insite to the world of the ultimate motorcycle road racer and his desire to continue the legacy created by his dad and uncle.
The man clearly has all the skills and knowledge of riding motorcycles to perform at the highest level. This book allows you to taste a fraction of the adrenaline that must course through his veins., And like it says on the tin Its in his blood.
July 2, 2018
OMG!!!! What a read.
You don't need to like bikes to love this book. There are no skeletons left in Michael's cupboard, racing is a drug to these boys and the only cure is the TT's . I loved every page of that book. His honesty had me laughing and genuinely crying. I found myself rereading sections because I couldn't believe what I was reading. I didn't want the book to end. I'm off to read it again😃
You don't need to like bikes to love this book. There are no skeletons left in Michael's cupboard, racing is a drug to these boys and the only cure is the TT's . I loved every page of that book. His honesty had me laughing and genuinely crying. I found myself rereading sections because I couldn't believe what I was reading. I didn't want the book to end. I'm off to read it again😃
May 28, 2017
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Dunlop is very open and honest and gives an interesting glimpse into the psyche of one of the world's top road racers. It is also full of amusing anecdotes and fabulous phrases. Highly recommended! (Note for future editions though - it is the "Tourist Trophy", not "Touring Trophy")
June 24, 2017
Really enjoyable read - finished in a single sitting!
Particularly enjoyed the stories from his childhood and family life as I am already pretty familiar with his racing feats. Great to hear of his love and respect for William and to hear his own view on how he behaved after being beaten by William at the NW200! He certainly knows his own faults!
I look forward to volume 2 in due course.
Particularly enjoyed the stories from his childhood and family life as I am already pretty familiar with his racing feats. Great to hear of his love and respect for William and to hear his own view on how he behaved after being beaten by William at the NW200! He certainly knows his own faults!
I look forward to volume 2 in due course.
January 3, 2018
Overall a brilliant book, Michael takes no prisoners with his writing style which is refreshing to see from someone who is at the top of their chosen sport.
The book is both emotional and funny and I learnt a lot I did not know about Michael. Would recommend anyone who is interested in motorcycle racing or the TT reads this.
The book is both emotional and funny and I learnt a lot I did not know about Michael. Would recommend anyone who is interested in motorcycle racing or the TT reads this.
September 28, 2019
Michael Dunlop is as real as it comes. Very honest and straight to the point and an amazing read about his journey so far from racing independently and winning against the odds to being with a factory team and dominating. For a non-motorbike sport fan like me. I can appreciate his underdog and free nature as a fan of other sports where sports personalities can sometimes be a bit diplomatic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2020
True sports heroes do their thing on two wheels
Great book, flawless and truthful. So called sports "heroes" like
ball sportsmen are a sham, and cannot even be spoken of in the same sentence as any Dunlop. If you ride, you know something of the TT and per it to yourself to read this book.
Great book, flawless and truthful. So called sports "heroes" like
ball sportsmen are a sham, and cannot even be spoken of in the same sentence as any Dunlop. If you ride, you know something of the TT and per it to yourself to read this book.
August 24, 2025
phenomenal book by a phenomenal rider
I don't know if this was ghostwritten, but it was an amazing read all the way through. Michael Dunlop is one of my all-time favorite riders and it's interesting to get in his head and see what makes him tick. This is a man who lost essentially his entire family to the TT but he still keeps pushing. A true motorsports hero and a great book.
I don't know if this was ghostwritten, but it was an amazing read all the way through. Michael Dunlop is one of my all-time favorite riders and it's interesting to get in his head and see what makes him tick. This is a man who lost essentially his entire family to the TT but he still keeps pushing. A true motorsports hero and a great book.
May 13, 2017
4.5 stars.
"That was my style back then. Wild and stupid. Just like it is now, some people say"
Rare and refreshing to find a candid sport's autobiography. Brash, unapologetic, honest, well written, fascinating story. The Dunlop dynasty continues.
"That was my style back then. Wild and stupid. Just like it is now, some people say"
Rare and refreshing to find a candid sport's autobiography. Brash, unapologetic, honest, well written, fascinating story. The Dunlop dynasty continues.
May 18, 2017
Not a literary masterpiece...
But what a bloody good read.! It has every trait from conceit to humility and the short rations of suspense and danger leave you starving for book two. Good luck next month Mr Dunlop.
But what a bloody good read.! It has every trait from conceit to humility and the short rations of suspense and danger leave you starving for book two. Good luck next month Mr Dunlop.
May 18, 2019
Just couldnt out it down
I have watched the film road and it was brilliant so when I came across the book I just thought I will give that a read and I just couldn't put it down very good read
I have watched the film road and it was brilliant so when I came across the book I just thought I will give that a read and I just couldn't put it down very good read
June 3, 2020
Road Racer is a great insight into the sport and thd Dunlop family. Reading this i felt the passion they each have/had for racing.
It was great to read about each family member and get behind the scenes insight into racing.
An excellent race if your a fan of the sport.
It was great to read about each family member and get behind the scenes insight into racing.
An excellent race if your a fan of the sport.
July 16, 2023
Worth reading.
I read many Biographies of Bike Racers, most are an ego trip but Michael Dunlop's is a book about a Man who has suffered great loss in his life and has come back fighting and someone fans can relate.
I read many Biographies of Bike Racers, most are an ego trip but Michael Dunlop's is a book about a Man who has suffered great loss in his life and has come back fighting and someone fans can relate.
August 4, 2024
Great read
This was a great read sad in some part funny in others it gives a different view of Michael his thoughts and you can see
How he thinks he is a great rider like his uncle and dad week written and worth the read
This was a great read sad in some part funny in others it gives a different view of Michael his thoughts and you can see
How he thinks he is a great rider like his uncle and dad week written and worth the read
July 22, 2025
Really appreciated how honest michael was in this. Alot of the time we see him as this emotionally closed off racing legend but here he really opens up.
Had a lot of love for dunlop already but this just made it bigger!x
Had a lot of love for dunlop already but this just made it bigger!x
July 26, 2025
absolutely fantastic read. going into details about his life from a young age around the Dunlop family and the road racing scene and of course his father uncle and brother. definitely recommend if this is your kind of thing.
June 12, 2017
.
Amazing read..very honest from a fantastic road racer...quite simply brilliant. Couldn't put it down..sad is got to the end. Great!
Amazing read..very honest from a fantastic road racer...quite simply brilliant. Couldn't put it down..sad is got to the end. Great!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews