THE Mother Road. That's what the Americans call Route 66, the iconic stretch of blacktop which snakes its way across middle America from Chicago to the Pacific coast, all 2,488 miles of it.

Much of the original Route 66 has been bypassed by freeway, something we also know in Australia.

An unfortunate by product of this strategy is the death of small towns which rely on passing trade, just so drivers can can traverse the country as quick as possible.

Billy Connolly himself needs no introduction. Is he one of, if not the, greatest comedian ever? Many think so but his talent goes much deeper than that. Not only has Billy starred in a number of movies, he's made loads of television shows too.

His 'World Tour Of' series of television shows (also on DVD) were very popular. Billy would traverse the country, doing comedy gigs along the way, and giving viewers historical insights of where he'd been. Of course there are plenty of laughs too.

His Route 66 book is much in the same mould, you get his historical take on the trip, warts and all, and you get a good idea of what it would be like to take the trip yourself. Billy does it on a trike. For me it would have to be a ’60s or ’70s American muscle car, or a Harley.

I think if you are a petrol head you'd love to take the trip. Billy Connolly lovers will really enjoy this book. It's easy to read, and you can almost hear Billy reading the story to you, such is the force of which his personality comes through the words.

There will be a TV show in 2012 which will great to see.The RRP is $35 and you can buy it direct from Cycle Torque online at www.cycletorque.com.au, or by calling us at 02 4956 9820. You can also get it at our stand at the Sydney Motorcycle Show at Darling Harbour from November 25-27, just after this issue hits the streets.

– Chris Pickett

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