Harley Davidson Lore 1903-1965
Harley-Davidson Lore: Origins Through Panheadis a collection of black-and-white photos culled from the Harley-Davidson archives spanning the first 60 years of the famous motorcycle manufacturer. For most of the book the photos, which date back as far as 1903, are simply allowed to stand on their own, uncluttered by text. In the back of the book, author Herbert Wagner supplements smaller reproductions of the plates with explanations of each photo's origin and bits of the Harley-Davidson mythos. Gearheads will love the meticulously chronicled changes in the Harley-Davidson design (were you aware that 1910 was the last year of the "beehive" motor with horizontal cooling fins in the head area?) and model nicknames like the "Silent Gray Fellow." Fans can track the Harley's growing popularity as a sport and pleasure bike, as well as its workhorse side as a delivery vehicle and military tool. Though Harley-Davidson novices may be briefly puzzled by insider notations such as "[A] prototype 61 OHV--the first Knucklehead" and "Everyone knows that William G. Davidson--better known as Willie G.--is H-D's vice-president of styling," this book will be readily enjoyed by anyone who admires the lines of a well-made machine.--Ali Davis