The Complete Idiots Guide to Motorcycles Review

This week we review a book on motorcycles - The Complete Idiots Guide to Motorcycles.

style

When we talk about style - we are reviewing the writing style. This book reads fairly easy (as it caters to 'idiots' it sort of has to!) The author makes each chapter sound like a conversation with one of your buddies at the motorcycle shop. Even technical jargon is simplified so that novices can understand. There are a few light hearted jokes sprinkled here and there - but nothing to 'lol' about.

features

There are 21 chapters in the book which progressively get more in depth into the motorcycle culture. Holmstrom and Green start off by introducing the reader to the very basics - with chapters covering the history of motorcycling, the basic anatomy of motorcycles, and the different types of bikes out there, going all the way towards educating the reader on basic/intermediate motorcycle repair, customizing your ride, and the culture of motorcycle clubs and racing teams.

There is a lot of content in the book, and although it caters to an audience of first-time riders even veteran bikers will find a few useful chapters of information. It is also a great reference guide.

The authors do a great job at covering both aspects of the motorcycle world -
sport bike/touring riders and cruiser/chopper riders.

The information is explained and gives the reader time to understand each topic. For example, here is how they explain the difference between shaft drives and chain drives - "Unlike shafts... chains smoothly absorb much of the impact created during acceleration ... Shafts, which are much more rigid than chains, feed that energy back into the frame, causing vertical motions some riders notice. These motions are called shaft jacking, and while it's not a serious problem in most real-world riding conditions, it can detract from a bike's handling."

There is a 17-page color photo section of various bikes that had us drooling over some the pictured bikes, such as the vintage Ducati sport 1000 cafe racer.

safety

Several chapters cover safety issues all riders should know and put into practice. There are chapters on the right type of gear to purchase, ride preparation (such as inspecting your tires, lights, etc), basics on learning how to ride, lessons on what to do in specific situations (such as dealing with road hazzards or odd ball corners).

Visual drawings clearly illustrate the examples the author describes and ensures you understand the instructions.

Although no replacement for a motorcycle safety course, the safety lessons do provide a excellent theory lesson and reference for all riders.

quality

When examining the quality we focused on the content of the information covered. The authors do an amazing job of giving the 'complete idiot' a complete overview of everything motorcycles. If you pick up the book not knowing a thing about motorcycles - after having read it you will know more than the average rider.

The chapters on basic maintenance are a good reference for all riders, and knowing the anatomy of your bike is explained in an easy to understand fashion.

show me the money

The book retails for USD $19.99 - an excellent investment.

overall

The saying 'don't judge a book by it's cover' need not apply to The Complete Idiots Guide to Motorcycles. The guide's title explains it all. If you are just starting out or are considering whether or not you would like motorcycling this book may be perfect for you.

Jay Leno's endorsement of the book says it best 'As an idiot and a motorcyclist, I found this book very helpful'.

rating

• Style: 8/10
• Features: 10/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Quality: 8/10
• Price: 7/10
• Overall Value: 8/10