Best Motorcycle History Books of 2025

The "Prospect's Bible" by John E. Bunch II is a detailed guide for those who aspire to join a traditional, law-abiding motorcycle club. The book covers everything from MC protocol and traditions to the duties of various MC officers. It also includes a glossary of biker terms and a test on MC history and traditions. Bunch's extensive experience as the National President of the Mighty Black Sabbath Motorcycle Club lends credibility to the book's content. Overall, "Prospect's Bible" is a must-read for anyone interested in joining an MC and seeking an edge over other prospects.

Harley-Davidson: The Complete History by Darwin Holmstrom is the ultimate tribute to the iconic motorcycles that have become synonymous with the brand. Featuring historic and modern photos from top motorcycle photographers, the book includes chapters from celebrated motorcycle writers, chronicling the story of every major motorcycle Harley-Davidson has built. From the first prototype to the latest liquid-cooled CVO Electra Glides and Softails, this book is a must-read for any motorcycle enthusiast, providing a comprehensive history of the ultimate motorcycle company.

This highly illustrated full-color textbook endorsed by the Institute of the Motor Industry introduces electric and hybrid vehicles to undergraduate students and technicians. The book covers the different types of electric vehicles, costs, emissions, charging infrastructure, and how hybrid and electric vehicles work. It also explains the maintenance and repair procedures, including fault-finding, servicing, repair, and first-responder information. The book is suitable for students studying towards IMI Level 2 Award in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Operation and Maintenance, IMI Level 3 Award in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Repair and Replacement, C&G, and other EV/Hybrid courses. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for understanding electric and hybrid vehicles, and the optional IMI online eLearning materials make it even more useful.

The Ultimate Harley-Davidson, New Edition is a definitive guide to over 100 years of the iconic motorcycle brand. The book showcases more than 70 of the best Harleys ever built, including racing models, special one-offs, limited-editions, and the latest models. Written by a specialist Harley Davidson expert and lifelong fan, Hugo Wilson, this motorcycle guide includes technical data, key design innovations, and close-up images of key Harley-Davidson engines. With its updated catalog, fans of these iconic motorcycles can explore the legacy of Harley-Davidson and its pursuit of adventure and rebellious spirit. This book is a must-read for motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors.

The Complete Book of Ducati Motorcycles, 2nd Edition is an updated and comprehensive guide to Ducati's entire output, from the 1950s to present day. The book is presented chronologically and in encyclopedic form with stunning photography and insights from Ducati expert Ian Falloon. It features all the motorcycles from Ducati's storied history through 2022, including sporting singles, groundbreaking Desmodromic 750 Super Sport, iconic Mike Hailwood Replica, and Superbike-dominating 916, among others. This information-packed, lushly illustrated oversize volume is a must-have for all Ducatisti and a great gift for any motorcycle enthusiast.

Vespa: Style and Passion is a lavishly illustrated official history of the legendary scooters and the culture they've inspired, celebrating Vespa's 75th anniversary. From Piaggio’s origins to the first Vespa prototypes to today's forward-looking Elettrica model, this book is the ultimate retrospective of this beloved brand. The book features dozens of studio images of the most significant models from throughout Vespa history, rare archival photographs, and images of Vespas in popular culture and motorsport. Mod culture, perhaps most responsible for spreading scooter culture, is also given its due with images of customized Vespas. Vespa: Style and Passion is an instant classic and collectors' item, providing an in-depth look at the rich history and cultural impact of this iconic brand.

Harley-Davidson: American Freedom Machines is a must-have for motorcycle enthusiasts and anyone interested in American history. This illustrated survey showcases 70 Harleys, including historic, custom, celebrity, and contemporary models, with large-format photography and informative text. The book is published by Publications International, Ltd. and spans over 144 pages in hardcover. Overall, the book is a great addition to any coffee table or personal library, and its unique blend of history and contemporary models makes it stand out from other transportation industry books.

The Monthly Budget Planner is a 100-page debt tracking logbook that helps individuals and businesses track their income and expenses for 24 months. The book features a simplistic and reliable layout that allows users to notate important information easily. The heavy matte cover protects the records, and the 8.5 x 11 inches size fits easily on a desk or bookshelf. With over 40 extra pages of miscellaneous bill tracking, this budget planner is perfect for anyone looking to pay off their debts. Overall, this book is an excellent tool for budgeting and debt management.

McQueen's Motorcycles: Racing and Riding with the King of Cool is a tribute to Steve McQueen's passion for motorcycles. The book takes readers on a journey through McQueen's life and his love for bikes, from his first Harley to his antique collection. With beautiful photography and detailed historical context, this book is a must-read for McQueen fans and motorcycle enthusiasts alike. The author's ability to bring the motorbike icon back to life with superb stories and emotive pictures is commendable. Overall, McQueen's Motorcycles is an excellent read and a unique tribute to Steve McQueen's legacy.

Ridin' High, Livin' Free: Hell-Raising Motorcycle Stories is an exhilarating collection of true stories of the renegade brothers and sisters of the motorcycle club in pursuit of liberty, individuality, and the "ultimate ride." Sonny Barger, the number-one spokesman for the motorcycle experience, brings us freewheeling tales of brawls, battles, brotherhood, and crazy quests that run the gamut from poignant and inspiring to thrilling and utterly outrageous. This book is a fascinating glimpse into a unique culture of freedom that recognizes only one commandment: the code of the road. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in motorcycle history and culture.