3 comments about Complete Harley Davidson: A Model-by-Model History of the American Motorcycle.

1. I was disappointed that my bike, a 1983 FLHTC Shovelhead, was left out. I was further disappointed that the timeline showed the FLHT/FLHTC to start in 1984 as if this version started when the Evolution showed up. My bike has the FLT frame, 1340cc Shovelhead, FLH Fairing with an oil encased secondary chain drive. I believe it came out late in '83 and probably was highly overshawdowed by the Evolution version. Anyhow, thought I'd pass this on to anyone who cares to read this. See ya out there on the Highways and Bi-ways... Shovelheads Rule!!



2. I very much liked this book. It doesn't go deeply into Harley history, it goes just deep enough so that one feels some sense of how American motorcycles, especially H-D and Indian, evolved. For me what's best about this book are the large beautiful photos of the old Harleys, chronologically organized, in original unmodified condition. The old bikes from the mid 30's to mid 50's are truely gorgeous. I can spend hours admiring and comparing photos. This book gives me the urge to own one of these old Harleys.



3. Over three hundred photos written by the most prolific Harley Writer. Don't miss "THE SECOND COMING OF AGE" by: Vedrine

4 comments about Suzuki SV650 & SV650S 1999 to 2005 (Haynes Service & Repair Manual).

1. This is a good book, but, it could have a little more illustrations/pictures. I bought this one, because I couldnt find the manufacturer's manual.
   
   Color photos instead of black & white could have been better.
   
   I wouldn't say it is a bad book, but, they could have done a better job especially for a beginner level mechanic like me.



2. Very helpful manual! Fills in quite nicely with all of the technical aspects of servicing your own bike where your owners manual falls short!



3. This book is very helpful. I actually own the Suzuki SV650s 2006 model and I follow the 2005 k5 model books suggestions. The book has saved me a lot of money on repair and maintenance costs. Amazon currently has the best price for this book as well. This book has everything an amature machanic needs plus a whole lot more that is way over my head right now. If you have an SV650 get this book. It's worth it. Even if you don't plan on doing a lot of your own up keep, you can still learn a lot about your bike. Happy Riding!



4. for someone like me who hasn't had experience with motorcycles before, this book certainly helps with figuring out the things that i need to do to keep my bike running and in good shape. it goes step by step for every procedure and maintenance routine that is needed with pictures to assist. If your manual is too confusing or does not provide enough detail for you then this book will certainly help clarify anything. its pretty much an exaggerated repair manual for people who don't understand what the manual is talking about.

5 comments about The Only Road North.

1. If you have ever had an unanswered calling that keeps nudging you, please read this honest story/JOURNEY from some very brave young people! The story does leave you shocked, but it won't let you stop reading until you finish.



2. As a crim trial atty inner-city Boston courts, and 61 years old now, I do not meet up with the cream of the crop re America's youth, as you can imagine. In fact, I have grown rather cynical over the many years of this kind of work, like working in the ER your whole life. This book was delivered last night and I am halfway thru it already. It is without a doubt one of the two or three best books I have EVER read. I recommend it to anyone, whether you are interested in pure adventure, unusual travel stories, human nature stories, etc. Whatever your particular interests in life, this book is for you. I wish I could give it ten stars instead of five!



3. when i was a junior higher, i read a book many christian boys read at the time: bruchko, by bruce olsen. it was (and still is) the true, autobiographical story of a teenage boy who wanted to change the world, and took off as a missionary to some unreached tribe. it's full of peril and adventure and gripped me like no book had done before.
   
   erik mirandette's book is that kind of book -- for boys of all ages (including my age: 45).
   
   the only road north is erik's autobiographical story of leaving the airforce academy to find himself in africa, on a three-pronged adventure that would change everything. everything. his first year was in northwest africa, near spain. during this period, he has a come-to-jesus spiritual awakening of sorts and is thrust into a world of "if i don't do this, no one will" terror, humanitarianism and salvation. sensing he needed to understand africa more, the second part is erik, his younger brother, and his best friend's motorcycle trip from cape town, south africa, to ethiopia, through 9000 miles of fear, adventure, wild animals, life-threatening experiences, personal connections, spiritual reflections, motorcycle maintenance, love and friendship.
   
   erik's slightly unpolished "not a professional author" writing style totally works, as it brings an urgent sense of realism to the already true story.
   
   then all hell breaks loose. after their trip is over (this isn't a spoiler, as this was all over the news when it happened, and is revealed in the first chapter of the book), erik and his brother and their friends (a 4th guy has joined them at this point) are sightseeing and walking around on one of their last days prior to heading home to the states when a suicide bomber explodes a bomb right in the middle of their foursome. eriks' brother dies. erik almost dies. the ensuing months are filled with pain of every kind, questions and doubts, and the shocking kind of spiritual and emotional honesty one almost never finds in a christian book. the end isn't pretty and tidy. there's only the slightest upturn toward hope -- just enough to keep the readers from wishing we hadn't read the book.
   
   no, it's not only for manly men. but it is a rare sweet-spot book for guys of all ages -- about 14 on up, with the perfection-point at about 16 - 26.



4. I recently read The ONly Road North by Erik Mirandette. I read it because I know one the the guys in the story, as he was a part of our college campus ministry group for several years.
   
   I will get to the point-this is possibly one of the worst Christian books I have ever read. It is deceptive, has terrible theology, and could really mislead others to follow the author and his friends' example
   
   To be brief:It is deceptive because the ending implies that all the guys are doing fine spiritually. Not so. The one I know has lost interest in pursuing God and does not even claim to be a Christian, as far as I know. Secondly, there are way too many crude expressions and outright swearing in a supposedly christian work. The NT teaches in several places to avoid crude language-apparantly not important to the author or Zondervan
   
   As he mentions several times while having a beer, there is no conclusion or really anything to be learned about God or the Christian life. His brother is dead, they spend tons of money on themselves, treated Africa like their personal motorcycle course and threw rocks at hippos. Yet he is convinced "God made him for this". Based on what? His feelings? And for what? To sight -see? Yet real missionaries, who daily risk their lives to lead people to Christ, are barely mentioned, and then only when they save these guys from danger. Incredible.
   
   What nonsense. They did little for others or for the gospel, and suffered terribly. (In fairness, at the beginning Eric is helping the poor in Morrocco, but it has no spiritual component nor is there any hint that it made much of an impact in the long run)
   
   How is this inspiring? Yes, the survivors bravely healed from their wounds and tragedy. But what does this really teach us? If you take stupid risks you probably will get hurt. God may give you the strength to deal with it. But hey, just go have a beer.
   
   Hardly what I expect from a respected publisher like Zondervan



5. First, I applaud the author for his earlier humanitarian efforts. However, I can't help but get the feeling the entire time he was really only seeking adventure. I know there are thousands of people who volunteer for humanitarian efforts for all of the right reasons, it just doesn't mean everyone does. For example, there are plenty of poor/underprviledged/needy (whatever you wish to call them) right under the author's nose in Grand Rapids, MI. But then again, that wouldn't give him "stories to keep the grandkids busy for hours".
   
   Also, there really isn't anything wrong with volunteering for Foreign Humanitarian Aid efforts partially for the experience. Just don't write a book afterward unless you have a point to make.
   
   To be frank, the author seemed to be quite self important in the "blog" and many paragraphs and "stories" were dedicated to the glorification of his deceased brother. I can't tell you how many times he mentions that he was made for this life. What life? The life of a Young thrill seeking American needlessly risking his life in unstable countries while treating the Dark Continent as his own private off-road course?
   
   I'm also surprised that this book was published by a "christian" publishing company. What exactly was the "message" that was intended to be sent/received? That if God doesn't act as your own private "genie" granting all of your prayers as if they were wishes you will abandon the little faith you profess to have?
   
   I stuck with this book continually hoping the next chapter would offer something of value. It never delivered. Save yourself the time.

5 comments about Biker's Handbook: Becoming Part of the Motorcycle Culture.

1. Great book for beginners but very enjoyable to veteran riders. I've been riding since 1965. I found much of the info to be very good. I wish this book had been available 40 years ago, I may not have made many of the mistakes that I did. A must read for new riders!!



2. in the interest of full disclosure, i did not buy this book. however, i read it in the course of about an hour while sitting at the bookstore. you too should read it for free, if at all.
   
   first off, the author has no real love motorcycles, but the neo-harley dentist/accountant scene that the "american" pig iron scene has become. the photos of him and his friends are enough to make me want to avoid any of the rides, bars, rallies, and scenes that the book describes. frankly, dear author, with your stringy long hair, gauntlets, black leather, and overweight motorcycle, you all look a bit light on your toes. and don't bother with the sportsters, they aren't heavy enough, expensive enough, and can actually be ridden.
   
   second, the cavalier attitude about drinking and riding is disgusting. the main point given to not do so is financial. never mind that riding a bike so large that one can barely control it under the best of circumstances is dangerous, add some alcohol to the mix and create a dangerous situation for everyone. please, dear author, maintain also your cavalier attitude about wearing your helmet and do us all a favor.
   
   third, to state that harleys now have a modern engine is wishful thinking, at best. it is still the same 45 degree pig that it always was, prone to shaking itself apart and mismatched power stroke that makes one grind their teeth. even buell, dear author, has gone to a modern rotax engine that puts the harley engine to shame.
   
   fourth, liberal use of the 'F' word does not a biker make. nor does a liberal sprinkling of 'custom' off the shelf, bolt on, chrome trinkets make a custom bike. i've been riding a long time, have completely disassembled my own bike and rebuilt it how i wanted it (and no, it isn't american and its not japanese), and nothing makes me more amused than to see a bunch of middle aged nobodies riding a bunch of off-the-showroom-floor pigs, all dressed in black and looking for all the world just what they are: overgrown boys that finally have the $30K to buy into a scene and maybe missed their exit for masquerade ball. oh, and trucking your bikes to the rallies and/or flying is about your speed. you earned those scratches on your bikes, buddy. gotta love it.
   
   fifth, if motorcycle gangs don't like to be called gangs and/or gang members, they shouldn't behave as such. sorry, but any 'club' that sells drugs, prostitution, guns, and resolves disputes with violence as their main source of income is a gang. it is what it is, get over it.
   
   lastly, the bullet lists were somewhat helpful. lists of things that one needs on the road, things to watch out for, etc., are about the only thing worthwhile in this waste of paper. but you have to look at skull and crossbones instead of proper bullets, oh brother.
   
   do yourself a favor and read zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance. the reading is better, the author actually cares, and the lists are much more useful.
   
   and the 'F' word simply isn't necessary to get your point across.



3. This book makes the claim to be a beginner's guide to the "Biker Culture". Jay Barbieri suggests this book will help the reader to fit into the culture avoiding common newbie fo-paws. Being a 31 year veteran biker myself passionate to riding, I looked forward to receiving my copy of the "Biker's Handbook" in the mail. After reading Barbieri's' s reflections and insight, I hoped to pass it on to a couple of friends just joining the riding populace for some entertaining pearls of wisdom; especially on biker "etiquette", symbolism, history, etc,
   
   Barbieri's book falls quite short of hitting the mark. His recounting of motorcycling history is often flawed (even details of the origin of the "1%er") and generally discounts the role of any other brand of motorcycle other than HD. While historical perspective may not be a big deal in many other `recreational' (as referred nowadays) pastimes - and some errors may seem "minor" - that history is deeply interwoven into at least what the "Harley-type" subculture of motorcycling is. This books' advice may seem `real' to casual riders in the Weekend Biker world, but is not insightful into the culture of riders who actually do "Live to Ride". Sadly, it fails to give much insight into the passion if not the soul of riding many new riders are often drawn to. (For example, Barbieri advises shipping the reader's bike to a rally or renting a bike there, apparently not understanding that the Ride is almost (if not more) important than being there.)
   
   Not all of Barbieri's points are off target. Some of his tid-bits and advice merely reflect his independent and personal style which is central to the culture. However in other areas ... if some of the advice he gives is taken, a rider may find him/herself taking unnecessary or even dangerous risks. From the accurate-but-obvious (Outlaw Club members are not your buddies: treat them with caution and respect), to the misinformed (...don't wear fingerless gloves or vests), to absolute B.S. (...wear GLASS eye protection ... and his instructions on braking), a significant amount of the advice this `handbook' gives should be considered with caution at best. And what Barbieri omits is often just as important - like the many midlife newcomers that buy a Harley and immediately hit Sturgis (or other large Runs) without having the basic necessary skills to ride in the packs that they will inevitably find themselves swept up in.
   
   Take a motorcycling course, learn braking (etc.) there, and give yourself a year before a large Meet. Please.
   
   Finally, and perhaps most alarmingly, beyond the first few chapters on getting started Barbieri's book devolves into a disjointed collection of anecdotes recalling his fond memories of him and friends partying and riding drunk and/ or stoned. Peppered throughout those tales he cautions in effect. `Don't do what I do (did)' - but damn this was fun.
   
   Suds and smoke has been and is definitely part of the subculture. However there is no place for it on 2 wheels. And there is so much more going on at Sturgis (et. al.) than just the drunken anecdotes he presents.
   
   Thankfully this book is a short-read. "Important" one-liners from the text are frequently pulled out and retyped in large print ...full-page drawings often illustrate again the text the reader has just read ... and several chapters have a `review" in the margins or at the end ... again restating what the reader just read.
   
   On balance, there isn't much there.
   
   I can't recommend this book or even pass my copy on to others. Here's (sincerely) hoping for a second and more accurate edition - the time is ripe for a book like this. This may be a good book on becoming an uninformed RUB -Rich Urban Biker (he even gets that wrong - using the term "Rubes" throughout the book) that enjoys playing with expensive toys. But if one wants a mini course on what the "Biker Culture" is all about, sadly this isn't it.



4. This is quite possibly the worst book ever. However, since I have not read every book I won't state that as fact. Based on the books I have read, this was by far the biggest waste of my time and money. If ZERO STARS were an option, I would rate it accordingly. It simply does not reflect the bikers I know or would even remotely want to be associated with. If the author's circle of friends is the "Motorcycle Culture" kindly count me out. However, since there is apparently a portion of the motorcycling community that actually thinks along the same lines as the author (as of 8/22/08 seven reviewers had given this book 5 stars!) I hope the author writes many more books so as to keep his like-minded readers at home thereby making the streets a safer place for the rest of us.
   
   If you are interested in improving (or learning) cycling skills read the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's guide and read either or both of Peter Egan's 'Leanings' books if you want some amusing and interesting stories about motorcycles (and not just Harley's). Yes, all three books will cost roughly 3 times more than the Biker's Handbook, but you'll probably get 10 times the enjoyment.



5. This book has everything you need to know to be a poser.
   The first and most aggravating issue is the way the author
   authoratively states that anyone who is not riding a Harley is not a real biker.
   Let me tell you who a biker is, someone who knows the joy of the open road and the pain of road rash.
   I can get both of those feelings on any bike.
   Harley's rock, but they ain't the only good bike.
   Another issue is the way that he continually spouts obscenities to seem more 'hardcore.'
   What a poser.
   The last issue I will state about this book for now is that it's a book... about how to be a "biker." Oh, wait, no it isn't. It ain't about how to ride, how to choose the proper bike for you, or anything about how to actually be a biker, no. Instead it's about how to fake your way into fitting an image.
   An image that began with the film "The Wild One" where, by the way, Brando rode a British Triumph, not a Harley.

5 comments about Performance Riding Techniques: The MotoGP manual of track riding skills.

1. In my opinion, the best book on the market for sportbike riders and racetrack techniques. Beautifully done, brilliantly written. Andy has more good information here for the advanced rider than any other book on the shelves. This and Nick Ienatsch's "Sportbike Riding Techniques" should be mandatory reading for anyone wishing to expand their riding skills, especially sportbike riders considering going to trackdays, track schools (such as CLASS, STAR, etc.) or actively roadracing.



2. Even if you don't ride, this is a very good read. No fancy jargon to confuse the uninitiated and lots of great tips, advice and stories to be useful.



3. Every racer, would-be racer and track-day attendee should read and assimilate this book. It is among the best books on racing technique every published, and will provide excellent advice, as well, to road riders who want to improve their daily riding. It will also help the reader understand what he or she is seeing at the races.
   The devil, Andy Ibbott proves beyond doubt, is in the details. Rising above being `quick' to being a winner is a long, painstaking (often painful) process, and this book proves it. Racing success comes from meticulous attention to the inner workings of riding well, along with total physical, emotional and financial commitment. It takes years. There are no `instant winners.'
   Illustrated with scores of clear diagrams and magnificent photos from Gold and Goose, this is one of the best primers for aspiring racers and those already competing in a difficult and dangerous sport. The photos alone, culled from thousands taken by Gold and Goose of the great racers of the last (approximately) decade show, in detail, what the bike and rider are doing and illustrate the text powerfully--a picture really is worth a thousand words.
   In 14 lavishly illustrated chapters, Ibbott covers preparation (emphasizing fitness), how to handle the bike--acceleration, braking, cornering and steering, sliding, racing lines, qualifying, starting, passing other riders, racing psychology, crashing--managing the ambient climate (hot, cold, wet), conserving personal and machine energy and getting on top of the box. Keith Code's appendix on suspension is excellent. Ibbott quotes many of today's champions with explanations of what they do, how they do it and why it works. He puts us right in front of the greats, who answer many of the critical questions we would ask if we had the chance to sit down with them.
   There is one area of significant omission from the book, and it's a biggie. It will, beyond every imaginable personal effort, seriously affect a racer's success or failure. It is beyond the cognitive control of the individual rider and will have a lot to do with his or her potential as a racer.
   The first is genetic: the physiology of the individual, his or her vision, morphology, reaction times, propriocetive skills and associated characteristics.
   The second, closely aligned with the first, is used by military aviation authorities worldwide to screen potential pilots from those unsuited to the task: reflexes, hand-eye coordination, etc., manifest in a racer, for example, in his or her degree of `feel' for what the machine is doing, its deviation from track (e.g. sliding). Anyone interested in taking up racing should be tested for these physiological aspects. It is difficult or impossible for anyone who is not naturally (i.e. genetically) gifted to overcome basic physiological deficits.
   The third is psychological: only the tough-minded and strong-willed can win. Adolf Galland, a great WWII fighter pilot, said: "Only the spirit of attack, born in a brave heart, will bring success to any fighter aircraft, no matter how highly developed it may be." It's the same with race bikes.



4. The author is a bit to general in describing the techniques and skills used in MotoGP and the quotes from the riders themselves offer little in site into the actual techniques used for racing. Trailbraking for example is only basically defined and not detailed in any manner at all. For example they say you should brake in a progressive manor, which his good advice. But they don't really go into why you should brake in a progressive manor or provide any in site into the technical advantages other than "it helps stability". I would have liked a more technical approach and less general advice.
   
   I did think that the chapter on lines was very good however and explained the difference in lines and types of passing in the sport.
   Still this a good read for any club racer and even a better read for someone whom wants to start club racing or just wanting to improve at track days. Hell, it might even be a good read for just the MotoGp fan to better help them understand the moves and racing action on TV.



5. This book gave great insight into how the racers at the top level of the sport prepare. It gives great advice and tools for anyone from a local trackday rider who wants to continue doing trackdays all the way up to someone who wishes to reach the highest levels of club racing and beyond.

4 comments about 25 Years of Buell.

1. The definitive history of the first 25 years of Buell. Well written and an easy, quick read. The authors use their contacts at Buell to give you an insiders look at the beginnings and history of this innovative American company and a look at it's talented and persistent founder and leader Erik
   Buell. A great book for any motorcycle enthusiast and especially for a Buell owner, or for anyone interested in the history of a person turning a passion into a successful manufacturing company against all odds through hard work, smarts, and a commitment to excellence and the people who work for and with him.



2. This book tells a fascinating story. At its core, it's the tale of the ultimate realization of the American dream. 25 years ago, Erik Buell, a clearly bright and creative engineer, but otherwise normal guy - just like anyone you or I grew up knowing - started making motorcycles in his garage and through hard work and perseverance turned it into a world class motorcycle company.
   
   How many other people have been able to do that in modern history? I'll give you a hint - none.
   
   As a fan of motorcycles since I was a boy growing up in the `70s I've watched more than I can remember come and go and only Buell has hung in there and made it work.
   
   When I saw this book was coming out (I am nearly certain there have never been any other books about Buell before - trust me I've been looking) I ordered it immediately and then waited . . . and waited . . . and waited, but now that it's out, it was definitely worth the wait.
   
   I thought I knew Buell motorcycles until I bought this book and found out all the things I didn't know. While I've watched cool motorcycle after cool motorcycle being reviewed in the motorcycle magazines that I subscribe to and look forward to reading each month, I never had any idea how close many of those models had come to never making it.
   
   The authors are clearly fans, and, while their subjectivity can be a bit much at times, most of the time it's infectious. We are right there with them, cheering Mr. Buell on through each trial.
   
   Like the motorcycles, the writing is at times quirky, but always fun. The photos are spectacular and tell the story in a way words never could. The images take me back in time to the first time I saw those models unveiled. They're familiar now, like old friends, but as I viewed them, I found myself often transported back in time to the first time I had seen them.
   
   An enjoyable and entertaining read for anyone who enjoys motorcycles. . . A MUST read for anyone who is (or thought they were) a Buell fan. I highly recommend it.



3. I have been a sideline admirer of Buells for many years, and found reference to this book on the badweatherbikers webb site.
   
   I just couldn't put it down, and read it at one sitting. It has given me a much better appreciation and understanding of the Buell mototcycles and the people responsible for creating them and bringing them to market. My next motorcycle will be a Buell!
   
   Shipped from Amazon on 8-30, arrived on 9-4. Great book, its a keeper on my coffee table.
   
   Husky



4. This a great book that highlights one man and a handful of loyal employees firmly set on building a true American sport bike. Erik Buell is the epitome of what makes the United States a great country. As a Buell owner I could not put the book down and read it cover to cover in one sitting. This is a must for Buell enthusiasts but a great read for anyone who wants to understand how a small company can make such an impact on a large market.
   
   It is clear that Buell ownership is not about just owning a motorcycle but a lot more.
   
   The only complaint I have about this book is it left me wanting more.

5 comments about Leanings 2: Great Stories by America's Favorite Motorcycle Writer.

1. I love Peter Egan's writing in Cycle World. This was a chance to review past work and some writing which I had missed. He has a style that connects to the average rider and sometimes see things in a new light.



2. Being a sports car enthusiast, I have read and loved all of Peter Egan's automotive writings. Wanting more I read both Leanings books. The same excellent writing, just about bikes!



3. I can't tell you how happy I am with this purchase, previously I had a copy of Leanings and I enjoyed that one tremendously. I had doubts that Leanings2 was going to top that one , but I was wrong - I would say that this one is better! I love that author's snese of humor and his in depth knowledge of bikes and skills at storytelling - I would recommend this for any biker or someone who needs a pick me up.



4. I already own a copy of this book, as well as it's companion. I think so highly of them that I have ordered this copy to be used as a gift/prize at an upcoming motorcycle club gathering. Every motorcyclist should read and study this book. I try to re-read it a couple times a year. I'm still learning things from it, and being reminded again of others, all of which are very important and valuable information to me. I've been riding for about 40 years, and this is the most useful and worthwhile motorcycle book I own!



5. A must for fans of Peter Egan.
   I always read his column first when I get my Cycle World. If you love motorcycles, give this book a read.

3 comments about Adventure Motorcycling: Everything You Need to Plan and Complete the Journey of a Lifetime.

1. This is an excellent book for anyone wanting to get into adventure motorcycling (or just dreaming about it). It has all the info you need to get started planning and what you need to know before you go as well as what you need to take with you. It is well thought out and written, and even includes three ride summaries in the back. Lots of great color photos too. I recommend this book for everyone.



2. IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON TRAVELLING THE WORLD ON 2 WHEELS, THIS IS A GOOD GUIDE.



3. Having ridden off-road the length of Baja in Mexico and done other adventure riding, I've been looking for books on the subject. This book seems to be one of the better ones out there, and covers a majority of the information needed to have a successful ride in and to other countries. The photography is also very good. I recommend it.

5 comments about Freedom: Credos from the Road.

1. Not since Sun Tzu's The Art of War has there been such a collection of philosophies. Sonny Barger illustrates with profound insight, secrets which could apply to personal, as well as business success. This book contains brilliant insights and invaluable perspectives which will help you prevail in every situation you encounter. Freedom, Credos from the Road will be studied for centuries to come. Strong words I believe so much I had sought the man out for myself. He is wonderfully charming, polite and generous. If you read this book, I believe you will respect this man as I do.



2. I just got this book and love it. Sonny Barger has taken his years of hard living and forged a gem from it in wise words and lessons learned.
   Although I don't share his opinion of law enforcement, since we do need them around, I do share his love of country, making family of friends when your own family isn't there and never has been, his ability to keep the faith with his club and friends and get it back in return.
   
   As a fellow freedom lover, I like this book and wish a lot of folks would read it and take from it something to use in their own life. Make the best of this life and don't take any, well, you know what. Best to Sonny. If he writes any more books, I'm reading them. He's good at this.



3. I would recommend this book to any father that wants to teach his son or his daughter fifty standards to live by. This book give us fifty princilals that should be taught to our young. Sonny gives us hints on everything from how to deal with Bullies, to how to handle yourself if someone wants your woman. He talks about our political situation, he talks about helmet laws and he also talks about drugs, alcohol and smoking. It doesn't matter if you live in the motorcycle community or if your just another citizen, this book will help you teach your teens a code of honor we all should live by.
   Great job Sonny



4. I liked the candid outlook from Sonny's point of view. I feel what he say's is true even if your not a biker.



5. "Freedom - Credos from the Road" has been out since July 2005 and is still going strong. Author Sonny Barger, whose book "Hells Angel" is now a classic outlaw biker tome, shares his experiences and insights on how to navigate the road of life from Barger's particularly unique perspective.
   
   A good read and reference - well considered and presented in a volume size you can tuck in either a saddle or tank bag while runnin' down the highway.
   
   "Out in Bad Standing" ex-Mongol Ruben Cavazos should have read Barger's sage advice, specifically Chapter 11 "Leaders Accept Dissent, the Tyrant Goes It Alone", before writing his own book ... a literary backfire that resulted in the former Mongol international president being sent packing by his former club not so long ago now.
   
   "Credos" is Barger's best work other than the first book on his life - the two go hand in hand like a one-two punch.

5 comments about More Than a Motorcycle: The Leadership Journey at Harley-Davidson.

1. Great story whether your a turnaround person or motorcyclist



2. Great story whether your a turnaround person or motorcyclist



3. I'm not sure most execs would have the patience to stay with this book, but for change agents, team facilitators, and other large-system OD practitioners, this book contains valuable, comprehensive how-to information.
   
   In true STS style, Ozley (the obvious primary author) does a wonderful job integrating Harley's new systems and methods with the real-folks' feelings and reactions as they go through an extensive organisation and culture change.

   More Than a Motorcycle could easily be a companion volume to Marvin Weisbord's classic Productive Workplaces, maybe even its sequel.




4. Rich Teerlink, retired CEO of Harley Davidson, and Lee Ozley, organizational consultant, have teamed up and written about Harley Davidson's transformation from a hierarchical command and control organization to what they call a "Circle Organization". The book primarily focuses on Harley's organizational change from 1987 to present. Many aspects of the organization are covered in good to great detail. In order to survive and meet growing demand and increasing global competition, Harley Davidson had to transform itself and undergo a radical process of organizational change. Attributing the traditional command and control structure to the American railroad empires of the nineteenth century, Harley sought to make change and break from this traditional form of an organization. As the authors' state, "This is a book about planting seeds and encouraging other people to nurture the seedlings". This book reads like it was written about a start up company that was an unexpected overnight success. Harley really had to toss out all of their old ideas on organizational operations and start from scratch. What is amazing is how this was done without creating animosity from within the organization.
   The authors take you through the proposed and enacted plans that helped transform Harley. The Joint Vision Process was formed so that employees on all levels could share the same goals for where they and Harley wanted to be. Both Rich and Lee believe that the people within an organization have the biggest impact on an organization. They shaped their plans with this as the number one factor and this book gives excellent insight on how they implemented their ideas.



5. Rich Teerlink, retired CEO of Harley Davidson, and Lee Ozley, organizational consultant, have teamed up and written about Harley Davidson's transformation from a hierarchical command and control organization to what they call a "Circle Organization". The book primarily focuses on Harley's organizational change from 1987 to present. Many aspects of the organization are covered in good to great detail. In order to survive and meet growing demand and increasing global competition, Harley Davidson had to transform itself and undergo a radical process of organizational change. Attributing the traditional command and control structure to the American railroad empires of the nineteenth century, Harley sought to make change and break from this traditional form of an organization. As the authors' state, "This is a book about planting seeds and encouraging other people to nurture the seedlings". This book reads like it was written about a start up company that was an unexpected overnight success. Harley really had to toss out all of their old ideas on organizational operations and start from scratch. What is amazing is how this was done without creating animosity from within the organization.
   The authors take you through the proposed and enacted plans that helped transform Harley. The Joint Vision Process was formed so that employees on all levels could share the same goals for where they and Harley wanted to be. Both Rich and Lee believe that the people within an organization have the biggest impact on an organization. They shaped their plans with this as the number one factor and this book gives excellent insight on how they implemented their ideas.