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Encyclopedia of the Motorcycle
Motorcycles, the open road, cruising; all things associated with this powerful locomotive are detailed in this marvelous history of a stunning vehicle. Humanity is capable of many wonderful things, but the art of making motorcycles is arguably not its greatest achievement. Throughout history there have been far more pressing needs than the desire to get from A to B more quickly and more pleasurably than anyone else. And yet, thousands of entrepreneurs have gravitated to the motorcycle industry: scratch any of them, and one will most likely find an enthusiast beneath the skin. Why else would anyone be willing to risk time and money in a business notorious for its glorious failures?
448 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 1999
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March 11, 2025
It says “Encyclopedia,” and encyclopedia it certainly is. There are at approximately 2000 makers listed, most with a three-to-four line entry with the builder, country, and dates of manufacture.
As one would expect, there are extensive multi-page entries for the likes of BMW, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Triumph, and the like. But there are some odd ones with certain, mostly British, makers receiving disproportionate coverage while being in business less than a decade or two and other long-term bulders receiving barely a column inch, such as Italy's Garelli (still in business) and Sarotea of Belgium which built for six decades. And the absence of Confederate Motors, an American specialty builder is curious as it was and was still in business on the date of copyright.
I would like to suspect this is due to a lack of information for some and more extensive information for others. But that seems unlikely. Nevertheless, mention is also made occasionally of major innovations and of the people who built the machines. The book to some extent also covers motorized bicycles, mopeds, and motorscooters. It is profusely illustrated with mostly color photos, and well indexed.
My criticisms, aside from the above, are minor. A glossary of terms and abbreviations would be a helpful addition. Not many people will inderstand “ioe,” “ohc,” and “sv” as common terms. Also, overviews of steering, braking, and suspension systems would be helpful for those outside the community.
Overall, a good addition to the library of a biker or for those interested in transportation history.
As one would expect, there are extensive multi-page entries for the likes of BMW, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Triumph, and the like. But there are some odd ones with certain, mostly British, makers receiving disproportionate coverage while being in business less than a decade or two and other long-term bulders receiving barely a column inch, such as Italy's Garelli (still in business) and Sarotea of Belgium which built for six decades. And the absence of Confederate Motors, an American specialty builder is curious as it was and was still in business on the date of copyright.
I would like to suspect this is due to a lack of information for some and more extensive information for others. But that seems unlikely. Nevertheless, mention is also made occasionally of major innovations and of the people who built the machines. The book to some extent also covers motorized bicycles, mopeds, and motorscooters. It is profusely illustrated with mostly color photos, and well indexed.
My criticisms, aside from the above, are minor. A glossary of terms and abbreviations would be a helpful addition. Not many people will inderstand “ioe,” “ohc,” and “sv” as common terms. Also, overviews of steering, braking, and suspension systems would be helpful for those outside the community.
Overall, a good addition to the library of a biker or for those interested in transportation history.
Displaying 1 of 1 review