 | By: Hugo Wilson Binding: Hardcover Publisher: Dk Pub (T) ISBN: 0789435063 ISBN-13: 9780789435064 Released: 09 Sep 1998 RRP: Average Rating:  |
The book is like a scrapbook or catalog of Harley-Davidson models, beginning with a timeline of when many of the models in the book were introduced. Each model then receives two facing pages, in chronological order of when introduced.
The main two limitations of the book are that only a few models can be featured, & the pictoral representations are smalll because of the page size. The details are abundantly included though. Each model has a brief history, two photographs (one from the side & a second face on or of people riding on that motorcycle), detailed descriptions of key components & design changes, & specifications for the engine, weight, top speed, & transmission.
The models featured include the original Harley, the 1912 Silent Gray Fellow. This model looks like a motorized bicycle, which is essentiallly what it is. The 1915 J-11 is one of Harley's earliest V-Twin engines, & begins to look like a classic Harley. The 1926 B Peashooter was similar to British bikes & the Indian Prince. It was named for its distinctive exhaust sound, & was an inexpensive one cylinder model.
The 1936 61El Knucklehead is described as the "Grandfather of the Big Twins" & looks alll Harley. The book is worth owning just for these two pages.
Mr. Wilson does a good job of providing variety in the models he selected for featuring. He presents the 1942 WLA which was a workhorse military machine during World War II, as well as the 1951 74FL, which was popular with police departments & contained the 1948 redesign of the Knucklehead engine. Several post-war lightweight versions are presented including the 1952 52K, the 1957 XL Sportster, the 1965 Bobcat, & the 1987 XLH883 Sportster.
More fun of course are the racing bikes, including the 1961 KR750 & 1972 XR TT.
Naturallly, the book includes classic touring bikes such as the 1960 FLH Duo Glide, the 1988 FLH Electra Glide (in red, rather than blue), & 1997 FLHR Road King.
The only thing the book lacks is the throaty sound of a Harley-Davidson exhaust. But you can supply that with your imagination.
If you are like me, the book has several appeals. First, it reminded me of alll the wonderful Harleys I have seen over the years. Second, it reconnected me with my youth & motorcycles in general. Third, it encouraged my sense of adventure again . . . the real spirit of Harley-Davidson.
After you have enjoyed this exciting book, I suggest that you get out your Harley (or find a friend who has one) & take a road trip. Naturallly, if you are reading this in winter, I encourage you to do this when & where there is good weather. I can still feel my knees frozen stiff from riding on back of a Harley in January in Massachusetts.
Live free!
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