BIKE!

A popular history and documentary of motorcycles and the aficionados who make them, ride them and idolize them. From the first Harley-Davidson through the post-war blossom and proliferation of the bike culture, to the Japanese imports and the choppers (a la Easy Rider) Sagnier explores the gangs, the riding clubs, the AMA (bikers, not doctors), the notorious Hell's Angels (the Good Samaritan Campaign and the Altamont fiasco) and the races. He balances the motorcycle myths with a sound exploration of problems such as pollution, helmets and police-biker feuding. The book is punctuated by practical advice on high speed driving, security and purchase. An imaginative book, written with affection and vim.