Customer Reviews

Pictorial History of Japanese Motorcycles

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4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
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I bought this book because of the cover photograph. The book does an adequte job of describing the history of Japanese motorcycles. The author clearly writes from a European point of view (which is fine). I would definitely buy the book again and I have recommended it to others.

I thoroughly enjoyed Cornelius labour of love. His European perspective enlightens the North American reader on the global motorcycle marketplace. He reveals why models were more successful in certain markets. Read between the lines, and you will quickly see factories dumping inventories of unsuccessful products in other countries.

I particularly liked the chapter on the 1973 Yamaha TX750, as I had owned one of these bikes from 73~76. Cornelious provides an up-to-date account of Yamaha's long abandoned child. It was market flop when rider's wanted four cylinder bikes, not parallel twins. He fairly represents both the TX750's technical advances and its flaws. As Cornelius owns a high mileage example of this bike, he provides the reasons why the TX750 deserves respect today as a touring motorcycle.

This book encouraged me to recently buy a 30 year old classic Japanese motorcycle, the TX750 Yamaha, to restore and ride, and I am enjoying this bike immensely.

I hope you find your own favourite road machine in this book, and enjoy the entertaining story behind it.

A terrific history of the japanese motorcycle. The book focuses on the historically important bikes that made a major impact to the world of motorcycling. Explains not only technical specifics but the war that was going on between manufacturers as the sport of motorcycling grew. The only fault is that offroad bikes are largely ignored. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of the motorcyle.

Book was in very good condition. Much less expensive than other sites that were advertizing it that I found on the net. Would recommend Amazon for quality/price anyday.

I highly recommend this book for those of us who would not by a Harley in the 1970's. Since buying and reading this book I have went out and purchased two Kawasaki KZ 1300's. The book was right on with what the Kawi can do. I plan on picking up more "classic collectable bikes" which are outlined in this book. Thanks Cornelius for all your hard work. Great book