While Haynes Publishing is famous around the world for its model-specific maintenance and repair manuals, the company also produces broader works. The Motorcycle Book is one of them. Because it provides such a comprehensive reference source across such a wide range of subjects, this is a must-have book for all motorcycle and moped owners and enthusiasts.
As an illustration of the breadth of information, there are more than 60 chapters in four main categories. To help with a potential motorcycle purchase, in the Which motorcycle? category all types of machine are discussed – from sportsbikes through retros and scooters to mopeds.
Moving on to Getting on the road, a similarly broad range of subjects are covered – ensuring that you know everything you need to. Compulsory Basic Training and advanced training are explained. There are chapters on helmets, leathers, boots and all the rest of the clothing you will need. What about insurance? It's there. And security? Yes, it's there too. Each chapter is liberally illustrated – there are photographs of thermals, locks and of gadgets such as a tyre pressure gauge.
We're now halfway through this book, with another 18 chapters in the Know your motorcycle section. Everything but everything is covered. Buying choosing and fitting tyres, for example. Exhaust systems, frame types and brakes, for instance. Never again should you look at a motorcycle and wonder whether it has a constant velocity or slide carburettor. Is that a Yoshimura or a Harris can? There are photographs and descriptions of these and other race and performance exhausts. Do you know the difference between rebound damping, preload and compression damping? Turn to page 107 for an illustrated explanation.
There's more. Another 15 chapters, in fact. This time, the broad heading is Looking after your motorcycle. Chain care, cleaning, MOTs, storage, trouble-shooting, they are all covered. There's no excuse for ignoring an oil change, neglecting the bearings or having incorrectly adjusted cables if you have this book. Finally, for the quiz night at your bike club meeting, memorise the Glossary. Backlash, dog, land and trail are among the many words explained.
First published in 2002, this second edition is bang up to date and without doubt an essential purchase for motorcycle and moped owners and enthusiasts. And it would make an excellent Christmas present for the one you love.
The Motorcycle Book by Alan Seeley
Publication Date: Out Now
RRP: £17.99, Hardback, ISBN: 1 84425 342
