Fabulous Reads: Discover the history of the Harley-Davidson
Book review - The Story of Harley-Davidson by John Westlake
The Story of Harley-Davidson, John Westlake, Jonathan Ball Publishers, ISBN: 9781802792942
IF there ever was a tome on all things Harley-Davidson, this would be it.
The information and background into, arguably, America’s most iconic motorcycle is extensive. The amount of research for one author is both astounding and impressive.
John Westlake takes us back in time to show how various historical events, such as the Vietnam War and World War II, shaped the trajectory of the Harley-Davidson into one synonymous with reliability and freedom.
The second world war particularly gave the motorcycle industry a major boost. As bikes were far cheaper than motor vehicles, the United States military called on manufacturers, such as Harley-Davidson, to produce hundreds of thousands of bikes for the war efforts.
Following the war times, many of the young veterans, who were barely 30, struggled to integrate back into society. Some struggled with PTSD and feelings of restlessness, and a lack of morale, while those who returned from the Vietnam War were shunned by the rest of the country for being a part of the war (for which they were drafted and forced to fight) – which had been morally opposed by many Americans. And so, seeking like-minded individuals, many veterans flocked together.
Ultimately, this, in addition to the lack of available jobs and the inexpensive nature of the Harley-Davidson following the war, lead to the formation of many of the infamous biker gangs, such as the Hell’s Angels.
Hollywood has also played a massive role in the popularity of the Harley-Davidson bikes. With the bikes featured in many movies, including the hugely popular Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man and many action stars such as Keanu Reeves and Arnold Schwarzenegger being known for owning these bikes, they have also become desirable as symbols of masculinity and wealth.
As one would expect, the book also breaks down the mechanical aspects and delves into the technological progress of the Harley-Davidson bikes over the last few decades.
The wealth of knowledge is accompanied by brilliant photographs, which truly help capture the history of the Rolls Royce of bikes. My only complaint regarding this gem of a book is that I wish it was physically bigger. Not only would it have done the stunning images more justice, but I believe many of the people who would truly appreciate this book, such as myself, would need bigger text – less strain on the eyes. At the end of the day, this book is for anyone who loves motorcycles, particularly the Harley-Davidsons.
Frans Smit – 4/5 stars
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