New Tour de France For Dummies book published as Lance Armstrong prepares for his title defense and last race

Tour de France For Dummies (John Wiley & Sons, ISBN: 0764584499), a plain-English guide to the world's most famous-and grueling-bicycle race, has been published.

As Lance Armstrong continues his training for a seventh straight event title, Tour de France For Dummies provides an easy-to-follow, entertaining guide that demystifies the history, strategy, rules, techniques, equipment, and competitors in the world's most grueling and intriguing multiday, multistage sporting event.

It includes an eight-page, full-color photography insert from recent Tour de France editions.

The 288-page volumes tells readers how to:

* Follow the race and team tactics;
* Understand how colored jerseys are awarded;
* Scout the route;
* Stay on top of news and results;
* Travel to the Tour de France.

The book is co-written by a diverse trio of authors who have a combined 44 years of Tour de France experience.

Phil Liggett is the world's most popular English-speaking cycling commentator. As a journalist and broadcaster, he has attended the Tour de France for 32 consecutive years.

James Raia is a veteran journalist who has covered cycling for more than 25 years. A syndicated journalist, publisher and radio commentator, he has reported on the Tour de France for numerous publications, including the Miami Herald and Sacramento Bee, since 1997.

Sammarye Lewis is a photojournalist who brings a unique perspective to the book. She has provided dispatches to various print and electronic publications as VeloGal, and she's the creator of myriad Podium Girl Gone Bad products.

Combined, the authors provide a comprensive guide to the wondrous spectacle known as Le Tour.

The book is available via major retailers and online outlets as well as on co-author James Raia's web site,

http://www.ByJamesRaia.com

The 92nd Tour de France will be held July 2-24.