Motorcycle

After early incarnations as a nineteenth-century steam-powered bicycle and multi-wheeled vehicle, the modern motorcycle came into its own as a cheap, mobile military asset during World War I. This title investigates the international subcultures that revolve around the motorcycle and scooter.

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Easy Rider. Motocross Grand Prix. James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause. The motorcycle is a global icon of untamed freedom, symbolizing a daring and reckless lifestyle of adventure. Yet there are few books that chronicle how and when this legendary vehicle roared down the open road. "Motorcycle" explores the roots of the rebel's ultimate ride. After early incarnations as a nineteenth-century steam-powered bicycle and multi-wheeled vehicle, the modern motorcycle came into its own as a cheap, mobile military asset during World War I. From there, it rapidly spread through modern culture as a symbol of rebellion and subversive power, and "Motorcycle" tracks the symbolic role that the bike has played in literature, art and film. The authors also investigate the international subcultures that revolve around the motorcycle and scooter. They chart the emergence of biker culture and explore how the motorcycle came to represent untamed nonconformity in the US. In contrast, smaller scooters such as the Vespa and moped became the utilitarian vehicle of choice in space-starved metropolises across Europe and Asia.
Ultimately, the authors argue, the motorbike is the exemplary Modernist object, dependent on the perfect balance of man and machine. An unprecedented and wholly engrossing account, "Motorcycle" is essential reading for the Harley-Davidson roadhog, bike aficionado and collector, or anyone who's felt the power of the unmistakable king of the road.