Harley Davidson Reviews

A photographically rich history of the Motor Company. From the beginnings in 1903 up through the Evolution, this book covers the rich history of HD and the riders that have kept them going through the years

Big book for lovers of the big bikes, don't miss "THE SECOND COMING OF AGE" by: Vedrine

Though I've just begun reading this book and am only a third of the way through, I'm quite impressed with the depth of information relayed by the author. The straightforward, easy-going manner in which the information is delivered is VERY helpful, seems to cover everything in great detail, and yet remains an easy read. This is a great 'beginner' book for a novice like myself, and I imagine it could probably still teach a seasoned pro quite a bit.

My one major complaint (as mentioned by the previous reviewer) is the fact that there are not enough color images. Considering the topic being discussed, it would have been nice to see more examples of different artists works and styles. I guess this small problem can be easily remedied by supplimenting the purchase of this book with the purchase of a couple of colorful magazines.

This paperback was very informative as to step-by-step techniques, equipment needed, procedures and safety requirements. Alot has changed since I stopped painting motorcycles over 20 years ago - primarily the paint chemistries, time and temperature constraints, toxicities and the resulting increase in safety requirements - all of which are covered pretty well. Exact paint parameters were not covered as each manufacturer has their own stipulations. Repairs, basic frame molding techniques, engine painting and multiple-color layers were also covered in easy to follow steps., focusing on the actual processes. It does not cover how to build a paintbooth, figuring that you have already created a dust-free place to work. My only criticism is that there were not enough color photographs showing the step-by-step progression from the first color-coat to the finish clear-coats - especially for the multiple-layered jobs. This book brought me up to date from the old "fill the garage with paint clouds" days!

This book offers more information for those seeking to do a proper restoration and should be on any Panhead fan's book shelf.
It has very good quality photos of period bikes with close ups of most. That is also the one weak link for this book. The bikes are period pieces and not totally original machines with a couple of exceptions. This is in no way a knock against the book or it's author, it's just the best of what is available. Totally correct machines are very rare. In support of the author, he does point out what is not correct on many of the photos. When used with his earlier book, Harley-Davidson Panheads, you have a very good resource and for that I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in this subject.

This book arrived just in time. The OEM style Replica Pan (Linkert carburetor intake) cylinder heads and crankcases are available from V-Twin Mfg.®. A person can now build a "Special Construction" Panhead from individual parts; a 1948 rigid springer Pan; a 1949-57 rigid frame; a 1958-64 swing arm; or the 1965 Electra-Glide. 6 or 12 volt, your choice. This valuable resource shows you a clear picture of each model and equipment groups. Use a yellow highlighter to mark first and last year changes. Go ahead, it's your book. An excellent contribution for the home-builder, the kick-start Panhead is where "motorcycle" got the name. .

There are some good photos but they are mostly OUTLAWS and why in the world didn't the publisher just call it OUTLAWS MC? I was under the impression this was going to cover all 1%ers it didn't! AFFA

The best pictoral review from an outsiders point of view that I've ever seen!!! An all picture book which needs no words. The photographer (Michael H. Upright) has captured the Biking and Brotherhood world at it's best without being a patched member! Thanks to the Outlaws MC1%ers for this inside look at the best biking and brotherhood organization in the world!...

One percenters are outlaws, this is an interesting read about a very interesting subject. Don't miss a rare Harley Davidson Novel "THE SECOND COMING OF AGE" by: Vedrine

After purchasing this book, I find it to be an excellent reference for restoring a panhead. Not as detailed as How To Restore Your HD, but good. Any book that gets down to the type of screws and the finish is fairly complete.

The most comprehensive book written on the 1948-1965 Panhead, this book is as good as his Knucklehead book. Contains an Equipment Group of Big Twin Options at the back, so you know the correct trim pieces offered each year. The author has put the Panhead motorcycle into prospective with a little history; and compared them to other great big twins of the era, the Vincent Rapides and Black Shadows (instead of comparing Harley vs. Indian). Reading the sidebars throughout this book, finds coincidence in advances made on new models, on both sides of the pond. The author is exacting when discussing any design improvements made to the big twins, and covers the changes to the Panhead year by year. The subliminal value of a Greg Field book, is that he is a technical writer and a story writer. Another "must have" for your library.-Kirk Perry

Greg Feld has produced a superb book here that mixes accurate detail on the Pan with wonderful period anecdotes and superb photos. Greg even manages to dig up archive information on mid-year changes and the rare P model.

No book writer can ever hope to cover every detail of a models history, but this guy comes real close !!

To the sad bloke that mis-read Gregs info on years, and slates this superb book (further down the list of reviews). - '65 model year Pans were produced in 1964, and followed into '65, yet ALL '65 model year bikes were stamped 65. '66 Shovels started production in '65 and yet were stamped 66. If this practice wasn't followed, then how else would HD have '66 Shovels ready for dealers to sell in late 65/early 66 ?

As with most Haynes manuals, this one is very good. The one major failing is that it covers a very large timeframe (1970-1999). As a result, much of the information must be either carefully read/selected to ensure it applies to your specific model and/or interpreted to the engine version you have. They really should have split it into pre-Evolution models and post Evolution models.

This also means you will not find any specifics instructions on items such as fairing removal/installation, instrumentation, cruise control, or other body and chassis type items -- there are simply too may variations for a single book to cover.

That is why I would rate this manual one star less than the typical Haynes manual which is generally more focused towards a specific model and vehicle.

informative,essential and accurate information,especially for first time owners.

Tradition is hard to break, not like in the old days. In the distant past Harley Davidson riders worked on their bikes almost as much as they rode them and it was a cult of tinkerers who instead of working in the yard tightened bolts and rebuilt carbs. If they wanted the bike to be dependable they had too.

Now days Harley Davidsons are highly dependable and the riders stuck in tradition want to work on them so they do customizing with wonderful results. With all the Doctors, Lawyers and Indian Chiefs riding these days who enjoy reading when they can't ride books like this are becoming a favorite pass time. Two that are exceptional are THE SECOND COMING OF AGE - LIBERTY AND JUSTICE - it is a novel about HD and GROWING UP HD - it reads like a novel.

This book is OK (the last section is the best, in my opinion), but suffers from two problems: it seems to jump around alot and it is also pretty much a fluff piece.

The book starts out trying to describe the management changes that occured at HD, then spends many pages discussing the various finance issues that came up when the management bought HD from it's parent company, then goes into sales issues then back to management issues. So, is this supposed to be a historical record or a management book? It does not devote enough time to either topic to do either subject justice.

Also, this book is in my opinion a fluff piece. All of H-D's strengths are glorified while their weaknesses are rationalized away by saying that "everyone does it" (ex, H-D's earlier management was bad, but so was every other US company's).

The last section on how to implement these changes into your company is good. If the rest of the book was written in this format it would have been much better.

This is an excellant example of a company that was near bankruptcy and able to pull itself together, reinvent itself, and again is a world class company. Many of the things that transpired with Harley can be subsituted into our business today. The culture of Harley is so unique that many people have the Harley Logo tatooed on their bodies! This is one of the best American business success stories I have read. Many ideas that were used to regain market share would help alot of manufacturing companies today if they follow a similar path as the Harley Execs did. In my oponion, Harley is right up there with baseball and apple pie. This story translates what people can accomplish when they have common goals.

This is an excellent story told in easy to read fashion. It details the comeback company of the 1990's if you ask me; Harley Davidson is. I've read it 2 times and working on the third time now. I'm not a business major since the book is business classified. I just Love Harley Davidson and read all I can about this wonder.

Folks who are serious about their HD motorcycles understand that there are a whole lot of companies making the same parts Harley makes - only a little different - sometimes better. Clymer's manual fits that category. It expands on the format of the standard Harley-Davidson service manual by including far more illustrations, troubleshooting tips and parts diagarams.

The only area that requires improvement is the "wiring diagrams" section. If you're buying this to sort out an electrical problem - you might be happier with the factory manual. This appears to be a result of the books smaller format. The diagrams are smaller and the letters used to identify wire colors are all but illegible (on my copy anyway).

Still, if your serious about doing your own "wrenching" this will be a worthwhile addition to your reference library.

A must have for the beginning motorcycle enthusiast. People who have been around customizing might find some of it too basic, but everyone will find a tip they didn't know before, good book.

I couldn't put this book down. What I found myself reading was the story of my own experience. This book is about a middle aged man getting on a Harley after many years. He talks about the fears of riding, handling, turns, and city traffic. His fanaticism with getting that perfect ride, look, feel and sound. I am on my third motorcycle and second Harley in my first year. I found myself reading about me. I would recommend this book for anyone who already owns a motorcycle (particularly a Harley) or anyone one who is planning to buy a motorcycle. I would caution letting a spouse read it. This book certainly points out the passion, compulsion, and obsession we have for our Harleys, all of which we try and keep hiddin from our spouses. This book is great entertainment for riders and non riders. Well written in a style that clearly communicates the fascination with his Harleys and the joy of riding.

As a recent convert to the world of Harley Davidson I could really relate to Richards experience. I'm a life long biker but new to Harleys. His book captures the Harley "bug" so well and makes for a terrific read for fellow addicts and the uninitiated alike. I was hooked from page one and followed the onset of Hog fever from Richard's first exposure to the legendary Fred Warr right through to his nirvana, the ultimate HOG. The book had even more "feel" for me as I know many of the characters mentioned. Real people in a real HD world all with various degrees of Hog Fever watching bemused as a newcomer starts to show the first systoms.

If you have ever turned your head as a Harley Davidson motorcycle cruised by on the street then you need to read this book. But beware you too could catch Hog Fever, I hope you do, it could be one of the best things ever to happen to you. Remember though, there is no cure, thank the Lord

Scottie

Five Stars and cheers to one of the best.

This was one of the best reads I have had in a long time. I found my self laughing out loud and annoying my wife several times. I have recently seen the fever in full blossom in two of my friends that resently joined me and my riding friends. The funniest part of all this is that as the fever hit each one I had them read this book and they both reported back on how funny it was to read what they felt was happening to them.