25 Years of Buell by Court Canfield and Dave Gess |
 |
 Nowadays the word Buell just trips of the tongue when talking about American motorcycles, it is as much part of the US biking nomenclature as its parent company Harley Davidson. However, in the great scheme of things its lifespan is actually quite short, just 25 years, which is just what this book from co-authors Court Canfield and Dave Gess celebrates.This hardback charts the success of success of a company that has been driven by a man who gave birth to it, Eric Buell. He started with race bikes that took a different path to the accepted engineering norm and introduced the motorcycle world to a lot of ideas and principles that are now being copied by global manufacturers. A previous employee of Harley, it was a statement of confidence from them when they embraced Eric’s relatively small operation under their massive corporate umbrella some years ago, helping to push the brand even further in the world market place, over 100,000 machines having now been produced. As one would expect with any marqué history all the models are detailed with a useful specification panel at the rear, as well as clear colour images throughout. However, it is the insight from the authors, both previous Buell employees and their photographs taken during that time that help make this book stand out. If like me you have ridden all the bikes (and have the pleasure of knowing Eric) you will find this something of a trip down memory lane. It will also help you realise just exactly what has been achieved in a very conservative market, by a man with sound engineering beliefs. The bikes may not be the prettiest out there, but they sure as hell cuts the mustard! This well produced book from Whitehorse Press is a must if you own one, or are interested in American motorcycle history. It is also a useful addition to the library as a reference work on motorcycle manufacturers for a modest £20.99. ISBN 978 1 884313 74 5 Available from all good bookshops or direct from the UK agent Gazelle Books 01524 68765 sales@gazellebooks.co.uk Review by Ian Kerr
|
