This charming book, packed with unique artwork and engaging photographs, celebrates scooter mania. In a feast of nostalgia, it takes us through the evolution of the scooter, focusing naturally on all things Lambretta and Vespa, but also covering plenty of obscure and eccentric machinery along the way. Scooter enthusiasm in all its forms receives generous attention, whether as fashion accessory for fifties movie stars, style-conscious transport choice for the Mod generation, or object of worship for today's retro-loving adherents. Quotes in the book such as "The scooters, clothes and music - an unforgettable time of my life" and "Exciting, fun and carefree days when anything seemed possible" sum up the enduring appeal of classic scooters. Anyone afflicted with the obsession will adore this book.

DT1 Series, DT2 Series, DT3, DT250, DT360, DT400, MX250, MX360, RT1 Series, RT2 Series, RT3, YZ250, YZ350, YZ360

FZ1 (2001-2005), FZS1000 (U.K. 2001-2003)

CL125A (1967-1969), CA/CB/CL 160 (All Years), CA/CD175 (1968-1970), CB/CL175 (1969-1973), CD175 (1967-1978 U.K.), SL175 (1970-1971 U.K.), CB200 (1974-1976), CB200 (1973-1978 U.K.), CL200 (1974)

An Alternative History of Bicycles and Motorcycles: Two-Wheeled Transportation and Material Culture accounts for the nineteenth-century creation and development of two-wheeled vehicles, both human-powered and motorized. Specifically, the book focuses on the period from 1885 (which saw the appearance, simultaneously, of the Safety bicycle and the Einspur, the first motorcycle) to 1920, while exploring implications for later bicycling and motorcycling. We argue that invention of these vehicles, rather than the product of gifted individuals, should be seen as the consequence of a number of historical, economic, cultural and political forces that intersect so unpredictably that the notion of a genius inventor is reductive. The common evolutionary model of development from the bicycle to the motorcycle oversimplifies both the technology and its origins. Stripping the vehicles of all their material and cultural associations, such a model fails to advance our understanding of the devices, their creators, and their riders. Taking a contemporary vehicle and tracing its lineage creates a false sense of evolutionary necessity in its creation, and fails to account for the many possible developmental paths that were, for whatever reason, abandoned. By contrast, our book adopts a material culture approach, a form of inquiry that stresses the connections between artifacts and social relations. We consider not simply the bicycle and motorcycle as material objects but focus also on the complex socio-political and economic convergences that produced the materials, materials that in turn themselves shaped the vehicles’ appearance, function, and adoption by riders.

The Kawasaki Triples Bible covers the entire production of three cylinder two-strokes from 1968 to 1980, featuring a year-by-year breakdown of bike specs, including the KH250, 350 S2, KH400, H1 500 and H2 750 models.Illustrated with hundreds of archive photographs and period adverts, plus personal memories from some of the racers and tuners who got the best from the fearsome H1R 500 and H2R machines in Europe and the USA, as well as road riders who owned the triples back in the 70s. There are technical tips and advice from experienced Kawasaki triple enthusiasts and club members worldwide, plus information from some early dealers in the Kawasaki marque. The book also contains useful advice on spares availability, tuning, future market values etc. and tries to capture the essence of what made the Kawasaki triples the most rebellious, kick-ass two-strokes of their time.This unique book is an invaluable resource for any collector, restorer, or just a fan of these fabulous two-stroke motorcycles.

Written by an enthusiast with many years' experience of working on classic British motorcycles but with little experience of working on these iconic machines this book covers the complete dismantling, refurbishment, and rebuilding of two Tridents: a 1973 Triumph T150V and a 1975 Triumph T160. This immensely helpful book covers all parts of the rebuild in great detail; parts that other manuals gloss over, leaving the restorer confused and frustrated. From the simplest of jobs, such as removing the fuel tank, through to detailed explanations of rebuilding the engine and carburettors, this manual is an absolute must for any enthusiast contemplating working on their Triumph or BSA triple. Over 650 colour photographs and detailed text descriptions clarify every stage ... engine, gearbox, clutch, electrics, frame, wheels, forks, swinging arm, brakes, instruments ... the whole bike! Highly readable and entertaining, the author readily admits to the various pitfalls and mistakes he makes in order for others to avoid them. Designed to sit alongside existing workshop manuals, this book is intended to help the owner complete a full restoration of their beloved triple. Essential garage literature!

From the 1950s through to the 1970s, Hughie Hancox worked at the Triumph Meriden factory in various capacites - a fitter, a member of the famous Royal Corps of Signals Motorcycle Display Team, in the experimental department (where he actually worked on the prototype Bonneville), and eventually as one of the legendary Triumph testers.This latter role provided countless unique experiences with some of the most iconic British motorcycles ever manufactured. The story of production testing at Meriden has never before been published, and this intimate and pragmatic account comes straight from a man who was at the heart of it. With many previously unpublished pictures and service bulletins, plus helpful advice on problems that still exist with the bikes today, this is a unique book about a fascinating time and place in British industry.

Classic British motorcycles were more than simple machines, they were a cultural phenomenon that lasted half a century. From the early days of motoring, British innovators led the way, building some of the world's most famous motorcycles, as well as some of the best performers. At one point, the rest of the motorcycle world followed Britain's lead, and by the late 1950s, the British were by far the largest producers of motorcycles in the world. However, barely a decade later, the British motorcycle industry was almost bankrupt and in utter disarray. Illustrated with over 150 photographs, this book explores the rise and fall of the British motorcycle industry, looking at its history through the years and then at the motorcycles themselves by brand, giving the complete story of these amazing machines. 150 illustrations

In June 1978, 11 years after he quit Grand Prix motorcycle racing, Mike Hailwood returned to the Isle of Man TT races, probably the most prestigious, and certainly the most demanding, road race in the world. On a privately entered V-twin Ducati he won the Formula One race, beating the works Hondas of Phil Read and the late John Williams, and breaking the lap and race records. It may have seemed a fluke; it was certainly a fairy tale that continued into 1979, when he was fifth in the Formula One race, despite losing top gear and his battery, first in the Senior, and second by only 3.4 seconds in the Classic - probably the finest and closest-fought race the Island has ever seen, Hailwood proved, if anyone doubted, that he was still the greatest motorcycle racer of all time. This book, written by his manager and friend, Ted Macauley, is the account of his dramatic comeback, from the original wild idea to his final race. More than this, though, it is a study of a remarkable man in a remarkable world, and of the races, the machines, and the men who ride them.

When it comes to collector motorcycles, none hold the allure of the classic Harley-Davidson Big Twins built from 1936 to 1964. But owning and maintaining these tempermental machines provides endless challenges. Even the most pristine, restored example needs a tremendous amount of care, maintenance, and repair. The rebuilding and restoring of these machines is not so much a defined task as a never-ending process. This book serves to guide owners through that process.

Beginning with a practical section on understanding, choosing, and purchasing a classic Harley, this book focuses on the nuts and bolts of classic Harley ownership. Through step-by-step photography and thoughtful, informative instruction, the reader will learn how to disassemble a chassis, rebuild a fork, lace a wheel, and paint the major parts for any restoration. It also provides thorough instruction on repairing, overhauling, and restoring all major components, such as the engine, transmission, and electrical system.

Even the most hands-on of classic bike enthusiasts will often shy away from working on their bike's electrical system, believing they have neither the skill nor the knowledge for such work. Dr James Smith explains in Classic Motorcycle Electrics Manual that this need not be the case. Starting with basic electrical theory, the book demonstrates a wealth of electrical tips and techniques, providing a progressive and detailed guide to tasks ranging from simple repairs and upgrades, through to completely rewiring a classic motorcycle. Illustrated profusely with full-colour photographs and easy-to-following wiring diagrams, this book will be an invaluable resource for all classic bike owners and restorers.

KLF300 2WD (1986-2004), KLF300 4WD (1989-2004)

The Story of Harley-Davidson is a compact and dynamic exploration of the legendary motorcycle manufacturer.

There are few silhouettes on the world's roads as instantly recognizable as that of the Harley-Davidson. The iconic motorcycle brand is synonymous with myth, adventure and excitement, and its story is no different. From a small Milwaukee machine shop at the start of the 20th century to global renown, The Story of Harley-Davidson charts the turbulent history of the most famous and infamous of the motorbike-making heavyweights.

From the Touring to the Softail, the Chopper to their first electric motorbike the LiveWire, Harley-Davidson's relentless innovation and creativity has ensured its place at the pinnacle of the motorcycle industry for more than a century. Though its ascent has never been plain-sailing, Harley has balanced mechanical reliability and power, with delicate developments and restructurings, protecting the idiosyncrasies that have made the brand as popular worldwide as it is today.

Combining stunning imagery and astute commentary, The Story of Harley-Davidson follows the illustrious brand through its peaks and troughs, across more than 100 years of revving and stylish cruising.

When Honda released the CX500, the sales brochure stated 'First into the Future,' and described the bike as a road sports V-twin. Honda's first venture into the V-twin engine market, with water cooling and shaft drive, was certainly different from their previous twin- and four-cylinder models. Known for its good handling and fuel economy, the low maintenance Honda was comfortable, loved by tourers and couriers alike and, after overcoming early teething troubles, developed a reputation for reliability. Sportier models incorporating turbochargers were also released, for those looking for an additional adrenaline rush. After thirty years, there's now a resurgence of interest in the CX models, both from restorers and custom builders, with aftermarket cafe racer kits available, too. The techniques, tips and tricks used by an experienced restorer will save you time and money. You'll see that you don't need expert knowledge or a fully fitted workshop for a restoration project. Packed full with photographs and detailed instructions, this book is your perfect guide, from start to finish.

Piaggio and Vespa scooters: cheap to buy, fun to ride, and easy to maintain. But there's more to the vehicle purchase process than meets the eye, so what should stop you buying the first bike you see? In this book, each and every step of the assessment and purchase process is explained with easy to understand steps.From identifying which of the many Piaggio scooters is right for you and your needs, through to viewing a bike, and giving it a serious evaluation, this book explains where due care is needed and particular pitfalls to look out for.The expert insights in this Essential Buyer's Guide will see you right when it comes to finding your perfect two-wheeled match, calling upon the input and experience of years of Piaggio ownership, restoration, and riding. Finding the best deal for your money is made simple with this pocket-sized companion that addresses all issues that potential buyers of Piaggio scooters will face when it comes to finding the right bike.