The Art of the Motorcycle

Motorcycles have had an enormous impact throughout the world. This book, published on the occasion of a major exhibition at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York, in summer 1998, brings together 100 spectacular motorcycles from the first -- the 1885 Daimler Einspur -- through the latest in cutting-edge concept bikes.This book captures the spirit of the motorcycle and the passion and excitement it has aroused in film, literature, television and on the road. Among the gems selected on both technical and aesthetic grounds are the 1894 Hildebrand & Wolffmuller 1500cc; the pivotal BMW R32; the late 1920s four-passenger Boehmerland/Czechie; the immensely popular 1950s Honda 50 Super Cub; the quintessentially American 1977 Harley Davidson XLCR; and the Ducati 916, one of the most beautiful motor cycles ever produced.Each bike is fully described and extensive scholarly matter is provided. The essays discuss motorcycle-related films, fashion lifestyle, and history.