If you're looking for some entertainment and inspiration, there's no shortage of great motorcycle related books out there. From round the world adventures, to Zen philosophy there are books for every mood, and every taste.
In no particular order, we've listed 5 of our favourite reads below.
Lone Rider - Elsbeth Beard
In 1982, at the age of twenty-three Elsbeth Beard put her architecture studies on hold and left her friends and family to set off on a 4 year, 35,000-mile lone adventure on her 1974 BMW R60/6.
From her home in London Elsbeth would traverse Europe, ride through the americas, travel the length of Australia, then head back home via South-East Asia.
As you can imagine, things don't always go to plan. This inspiring and harrowing journey, is sure to keep you reading late into the night
Zen & The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance - Robert M. Pirsig
Robert M. Pirsig's Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is a study of how we live, and a meditation on how we can live better.
The book is a semi-autobiographical story of a 17-day journey that across America on his Honda CB77 motorcycle, with his young son Chris. They travel from Minnesota to Northern California in 1968, while Pirsig explores the meaning of quality through motorcycle repair and maintenance.
It challenges the idea of objective reasoning and encourages introspection and appreciation for the complexity of life.
Hell's Angels - Hunter S. Thompson
An insider's perspective on the notorious motorcycle club, the Hells Angels.
Thompson immerses himself in the world of the Angels, documenting their lifestyle, values, and criminal activities. Through firsthand experiences and interviews, he explores the complexities of their subculture, delving into themes of rebellion, violence, and the pursuit of freedom.
Thompson's narrative offers insights into the psyche of the outlaw biker, while also reflecting on broader societal issues and the American counterculture of the 1960s. "Hell's Angels" is a gritty and unflinching portrayal of a misunderstood subculture, showcasing Thompson's distinctive writing style and his ability to capture the essence of a turbulent era in American history.
One Man Caravan - Robert Edison Fulton Jr.
"One Man Caravan" is a travelogue written by Robert Edison Fulton Jr. It chronicles Fulton's solo journey around the world on a Douglas motorcycle during the early 1930s.
Throughout the book, Fulton recounts his adventures and encounters as he travels through Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the United States. He faces numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, mechanical issues with his motorcycle, and cultural differences in the countries he visits. Despite the hardships, Fulton's journey is filled with moments of wonder, excitement, and personal growth.
Timeless On The Silk Road - Heather Ellis
A memoir by Heather Ellis that details her remarkable solo motorcycle journey along the ancient Silk Road route.
The book recounts Ellis's daring adventure as she travels through remote and challenging landscapes across continents, including Asia, Europe, and Africa. Along the way, she encounters diverse cultures, navigates through bureaucratic obstacles, and confronts personal fears and doubts.
Despite facing numerous challenges, Ellis discovers the beauty of human connection, the resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative power of travel. "Timeless on the Silk Road" is a captivating tale of adventure, self-discovery, and the enduring allure of exploration.
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