The Encyclopedia of Motorcycles: The Complete Book of Motorcycles and Their Riders

A comprehensive model-by-model reference tracks every aspect of motorcycles, from their creation in 1885 through the current age of Japanese superbikes, noting technical specifications and profiling their manufacturers.

Part one of this veneration of motorcycles presents in one striking, oversize page after another, with each page averaging one-third text to two-thirds photographs, a mix of pertinent information, including the history of motorcycles since the first one was built in 1885 in Germany, a discussion of the growing sophistication of motorcycle engineering, and special articles on clubs, motorcycles in the movies, clothing ("gear" ), all the mechanical components of a motorcycle, and racing. Part two is an A-to-Z presentation of notable motorcycle makes; a textual and photographic profile is given for each, touching on history and outstanding models. An automatic purchase for public libraries with an active automotive and mechanics readership. Brad Hooper