Classic Motorcycles: The Art of Speed

The motorcycle should have disappeared with the advent of the inexpensive automobile because Henry Ford's Model T usurped the motorcycle's position as a primary form of utilitarian transportation. Still, a funny thing happened on the way to extinction: the motorcycle survived and thrived. Enough people were enamored of the thrill and beauty of the two-wheeled mechanical beast to ensure it would continue to exist indefinitely. And exist they have! Many of the motorcycles manufactured during the past century truly fit the description of "classic," and many consider these machines works of art. Written by noted motorcycle author Patrick Hahn, Classic Motorcycles presents the history of motorcycling as told through the most significant, iconic, classic motorcycles of all time, with both period photography and modern portrait photography. All the best domestic and international makes are represented here, from BMWs, Indians, and Triumphs to Vincents, Ducatis, and Harley-Davidsons: the most