Bmw Motorcycles

BMW Motorcycles

IN THIS BOOK’S INTRODUCTION, TITLED “GRIND THEM into Dust,” author Darwin Holmstrom makes the point that BMW riders are “different.” He’s right. Or rather, his friend whose quote he used is right. The Bavarian bikes’ ability to endure has attracted a durable people who simply want to ride a very

long way. Luckily, you won’t need much fortitude to make it though this 10V2 x 10V2inch color hardback.

Holmstrom’s writing is lively and personal, way better than the historical modelyear-changes blow-by-blow often found in this type of book. Quotes are included from current BMW designer David Robb, with a lot of material culled from major and minor motorcycle magazines throughout the years. Numerous sidebars liven things up even more, although some of these seem a little rushed.

Photographer Brian J. Nelson did a fine job of shooting the various models in this picture-heavy book. On the down side, there is virtually no historical photography, and the single photo from the past is Tom Riles’ shot of Reg Pridmore in action on the Butler & Smith AMA Superbike Championship-winner-used three times. But it is called “BMW Motorcycles” and plenty are shown throughout the seven chapters, even without period photos that might lend a better historical feel.

That gripe aside, this is an entertaining and thorough history of the German company’s machines and the cultural forces that produced them. It’s something you’ll probably enjoy, even if you aren’t “different.” -Mark Hoyer

BMW Motorcycles, Darwin Holmstrom and Brian J. Nelson, 168 pages, $35; MBI Publishing, Galtier Plaza #200, 380 Jackson St., St. Paul, MN 55101; 800/826-6600; www.motorbooks.com