In the 1970s, Honda broke the mould again by creating a series of motorcycles that would rule the road for over forty years: the Gold Wing, Honda's premier touring motorcycle. From its super-smooth horizontally opposed engine to its faux tank and low centre of gravity, the Honda Gold Wing is a machine that combines reliability, comfort and style; it can take you hundreds of miles in one day. Through the 1980s and into the twenty-first century, the Gold Wing dominated the touring segment of motorcycling, originally being built for the American market and later being manufactured there. In this book, Peter Rakestrow tells the story of the Honda Gold Wing from the original engineering concept through to 1987, when Honda built the last four-cylinder Gold Wing. Covering detailed changes through the years, this book will appeal to buyers, restorers and collectors alike.

This comprehensive book provides the full background and history of the groundbreaking Kawasaki Z1. The author describes how 'King Zed' became a sensation after its launch in 1972, combining incredible performance with convenience, reliability and practicality. Although pipped to the post as the first four-cylinder 'superbike' by the 1969 Honda CB750, Kawasaki riposted with extra power and a top speed of 135mph, knocking the opposition into second place. The fastest production motorcycle of its time, the Z1 received rave reviews in the motorcycle press. Rod Ker describes the various makeovers that the model received later in production, and how it was given a new lease of life as the fuel-injected GPZ1100. Finally superseded in 1984 by lighter and more efficient models like the all-new water-cooled GPZ900R, the Z1 had already become established as a classic and an appreciating asset.

In terms of public image, the scooter has long played second fiddle to the motorcycle. Of course, there is a large dose of stereotype in the readings of both kinds of machines and at heart both have provided the same thing: escape, independence, mobility and a certain kind of cool. Following on from Chris Haddon's highly successful my cool motorcycle, my cool scooter showcases beautiful scooters from all corners of the world and celebrates the scooter's history thus far. The humble scooter is much more than a mode of transport - it is fashionable, stylish and trendy. As many of the stories featured in this book demonstrate, owners take their scooters on miraculous adventures from city streets to glorious country escapes. The book explores the most iconic brands of scooter from the well-known Vespa to the classic Goggo. Each section covers a selection of historical information, owners' stories and vehicle notes. For scooter owners or those interested in scooter history this book will inspire and intrigue readers.