Motorcycling enthusiasts have often found a question staring at them in their face : “What is it in biking that captivates you so much ??”.
Well, a true motorbiker worth his Cordura-reinforced gear would swear that the best answer to this question probably can’t be expressed, but can only be experienced for oneself. Hence, the best way to get exposed to the joys of motorcycling is, well, just grab a set of wheels and swing one leg over it and then get rolling !!
Nevertheless, it is worthwhile to start flipping some pages to stay abreast of the happenings in the two-wheeled arena. It also makes sense if one is looking to acquire newer abilities, or to hone existing skills. The genre of “Motorcycling” has seen its share of some excellent publications, and here we present a short guideline on five books which we feel should be elevated to the podium of “Top Five”. All the mentioned books are available on Flipkart, and are definitely worth a mention, as well as a read.
Here you go :-
1. “The Motorcycle Diaries” by Ernesto Che Guavara
Guevara is a fun-loving, young bloke who decides to set out on a journey through South America along with his friend. The book provides insights into how Guevara’s outlook undergoes a transformation after encountering a wide variety of people throughout his journey. He realises the discomfort faced by the masses as a result of imperialist oppression, and thus decides to take side with the Communists.
Guevara presents his account in a very exciting way, reader reviews often suggest that this book is worth reading over and over. Certainly, the honest and self-narrated account of Che Guavara is on a different league altogether from Keith Code’s handiwork. But just don’t expect any tips on counter-steering from Che Guavara !!
The Motorcycle Diaries shouldn’t be a worry on the wallet; at 199/- on Flipkart it certainly offers bang for the buck.
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2. “Twist of the Wrist” series by Keith Code
Often touted as the “Cornering Bible”, this two-book series is one of the most comprehensive works on handling two-wheeled machines. The writer, Keith Code, has been associated with the California Superbike School and definitely understands two wheelers.
Keith starts from the scratch, and elucidates all the basic concepts very lucidly. The first volume (Twist of the Wrist : The Motorcycle Road Racers Handbook) uncovers the techniques for riders as well as encompassing a wider category. The second volume (Twist of the Wrist : The Basics of High Performance Motorcycle Riding) deals more exclusively with high-performance machines and thus proceeds into more advanced terrain.
The Twist of the Wrist is definitely a must read if you want to gain more control over your metal-job, and aspire to slice through those corners quicker. Though Mr. Code has some nice points to make, some readers have had certain apprehensions over his supposedly rickety writing style. Be prepared to bear some inconvenience in exchange for quicker lap times; after all “No Pain, No Gain” !!
Buying Options:
- Rs.399 – Amazon.in Kindle Edition
- Rs.1205 – Flipkart – Twist of the Wrist: The Motorcycle Road Racers Handbook 1st Edition
- Rs.1205 – Flipkart – Twist of the Wrist Vol. II
3. “Don’t Ask any Old Bloke for Directions : A Biker’s Whimsical Journey across India” by P.G. Tenzing
If Keith’s penning of his thoughts had mostly to do with skills and technique, this book could fulfil quite another aspect of motorcycling : The hunger and the burning desire that’s necessary to burn rubber on long stretches.
The handiwork of an ex-bureaucrat, this book could just be the right springboard for people looking to start journeying around on their two-wheels. A major attraction factor is the Royal Enfield Thunderbird which the author rode in his travails.
The writer sets off on an unplanned journey, and encounters people from all walks of life.
The nine-month trip devoid of any pre-planned route ends up transforming the author’s views on life and death, as well as friendship and love. He presents those experiences with quite a bit of humor, and this book is surely one you cannot put down. At 188/- on Flipkart, it costs a pittance !!
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4. “Let’s Ride : Sonny Barger’s guide to motorcycling” by Sonny Barger
If getting inspired by leafing through fellow rider’s experiences isn’t totally your cup of tea, then this is the book that is recommended for you.
Arguably one of the most well known bikers who has been around, Sonny Barger will “barge in” with his dry humour that will keep the reader in splits. That having said, it is also an excellent guide to mastering the art of motorcycling. If Mr. Keith focussed on the corners, Sonny takes it a notch higher by dealing around with the nitty-gritty of maintaining a motorcycle.
Surprisingly, the book is as interesting for young, first-timers as well as veteran riders. Sonny might have spent thirteen long years behind bars, but he definitely has spent more time with his wheels. And he wrings out the last drop of wisdom and wit from that experience, and hands it over in this book.
A very entertaining book, though the only drawback could be the staid presentation lacking in diagrams and illustrations. Its available in Flipkart for 905/-, and another one with some added contributions from Darwin Holmstrom will set you back by 1377/-.
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5. “It’s Not About the Bike : My Journey Back to Life” by Lance Armstrong
Now, this one could be a controversial entrant to the “Top Five” podium. Not so much because the writer was nailed in an career-smashing doping scandal, but because….hold your breath….it involves no motorbike !!
Lance Armstrong has enjoyed his life as a celebrity athlete. Having won seven consecutive Tour de France titles, Armstrong requires little, or no introduction at all. This book takes you through his childhood as well as his tryst with the dreaded disease cancer. Lance writes in a pretty much straightforward way, devoid of any frills. However, this honesty is what makes this a compelling read.
Though not really a motorbike related book, we felt it deserved to find a “Top Five” mention because it deals with those raw emotions which bikers are expected to endure. And it has pretty much to teach about life : Love, Friendship, Struggle, Inspiration, Hard Work and Determination. It shows that there is much to human life than just life and death, and as quoted by the author himself, “Hope is the only antidote to fear.”
Reading Lance Armstrong’s account could leave you emotionally drained; go get this from Flipkart at 339/-.
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