The world of motorcycling is an exhilarating adventure unlike any other. For those of us who relish the wind in our hair and the thrill of open roads or heart-pounding track races, there’s an additional joy to be found in the captivating stories penned by masterful authors. While we may enjoy motorcycle documentaries and films that revolve around these two-wheeled wonders – take, for instance, the spotlight on the modern café racer, Triumph’s Speed Triple 1200 RR, in the Netflix sensation ‘Heart of Stone’ (2023) – the evolution of technology has bestowed upon us a new delight: eBooks.
In the modern era, the best motorcycle tales of the ages are at our fingertips with a simple click. And, having spent over 50 years immersed in motorcycling (yes, I’m an avid reader, too), I’ve delved into countless books that have enriched my understanding of this passion. To make sure I don’t bore you with my reader’s bias, I checked in with a special long-term friend and colleague, a name you’re likely familiar with: Boris Mihailovic. And in case you aren’t, here’s a short bio
Meet Boris Mihailovic: Avid Motorcycle Rider, Author, Journalist, Editorial & Marketing Consultant
When asked about Boris Mihailovic, Richard Fildler of ABC once said, and I quote,
“He has had more fun on two wheels than should be legally possible. His love of motorcycling, mateship, and frequent, subsequent mayhem is matched by a natural writing ability that graphically, often hilariously, brings to life the two-wheeled experiences that have shaped his life.”
And I couldn’t agree more. This one bloke (as he likes to say) has been at it (riding motorcycles) for over 40 years, 25 of which he has spent writing irreverently punchy books when not smashing his head on the keyboard to produce content for a wide range of audiences, including Australian Dirt Bike, AMCN, Ralph, FHM, Australian Worker, Top Gear, and UFC. He was the launch editor of Picture Premium and Premium Babes and has also edited magazines like Ozbike, Street Machine, Choppers, and Motorcycle Legends.
His books? Anything but mundane. They aren’t just about machines; they’re captivating, humorous, and, above all, profoundly relatable.
His indulging narratives resonate with both bikers and non-bikers alike, reminiscent of the engaging atmosphere of a pub where the charismatic storyteller of the biker gang holds court. For us bikers, his tales strike a chord, vividly portraying how our passion for motorcycles becomes a part of who we are. No wonder his informative bike bible – a virtual space where half a million pairs of eyes eagerly scan his pages each month, just like you and me now, sharing a wink that says, ‘I get it, I feel it, and I love it too!’
And I find myself agreeing with his own assessment: his most important contribution is, in his words, ‘pissing people off.’ He sees this as his calling in life, something he takes seriously, alongside his passion for riding motorcycles, of course!
I am certain that, like me, you will be utterly captivated to hear his extraordinary life story directly from him. It’s a journey he unfolds with fervor and heart during our exclusive video interview. Even the most exceptional among us have a tale to tell!
Now, let me introduce our handpicked top 52 most popular eBooks – the ultimate compilation of must-reads that have stood the test of time.
Top 52 Most Popular eBooks on Motorcycling
Scroll to the right to find out where to buy, discover the best prices, and see if you might be lucky enough to get a discount from the sellers.
Book Name Category Author Synopsis Print Length Check & Shop Now
Investment Biker: Around the World with Jim Rogers Adventure Travel/Travel Memoirs Jim Rogers Explore international investments, local cultures, politics, economics, and the art of travel across six continents... 472 Pages Amazon
HANGMEN: Riding With an Outlaw Motorcycle Club in the Old Days Club Memoirs/History Dale Arenson The camaraderie, challenges, and the unique bond between club members as they navigate the road and their own complexities… 424 Pages Amazon
How to Ride Off-Road Motorcycles: Key Skills and Advanced Training for All Off-Road, Motocross, and Dual-Sport Riders Off-Road Riding Gary LaPlante The intricacies of off-road, motocross, and dual-sport riding, offering readers a comprehensive toolkit of skills and strategies… 455 Pages Amazon
Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well City Streets and Country Roads Riding David L. Hough Discover bike mechanics, choosing the appropriate bike size, fundamental riding skills, navigating night rides, participating in group outings, and mastering advanced survival tactics... 293 Pages Amazon
Total Control: High Performance Street Riding Techniques, 2nd Edition Street Riding Lee Parks Learn essential rider insights with a keen focus on the crucial dynamics of physics, psychology, and rider attitude… 497 Pages Amazon
My Mother Warned Me About Blokes Like Me Biker Culture Boris Mihailovic A gritty, humorous memoir exploring a life of rebellion and redemption as a rider… 189 Pages Shock&Nawe
The Fast Stuff: Twenty Years of Top Bike Racing Tales From the World's Maddest Motorsport Racing/Sports Riding Mat Oxley Learn the triumphs, challenges, and the intense camaraderie of the heart-pounding world of motorcycle sports… 469 Pages Amazon
Hitting the Road; Motorcycle Travels on a Budget Budget Travel Tips JB Klimko Insights into planning, navigating, and making the most of motorcycle journeys on a tight budget… 82 Pages Amazon
At the Altar of the Road Gods: Stories of Motorcycles and Other Drugs Motorcycle Culture Boris Mihailovic A deeply personal narrative that explores the complexities of freedom, friendship, and the relentless spirit of adventure… 304 Pages Shock&Nawe
Desolation Road (Torpedo Ink Book 4) Romantic Suspense with Motorcycle Themes Christine Feehan The lives of the Torpedo Ink motorcycle club members, where danger and desire entwine… 479 Pages Amazon
Inflame Me (Ravage MC #4): A Motorcycle Club Romance Motorcycle Club Romance Ryan Michele Passion and danger entwine as the members of the Ravage Motorcycle Club navigate the complexities of loyalty, love, and life on the edge… 258 Pages Amazon
Prospect's Bible: "How to Prospect for a Traditional, Law Abiding Motorcycle Club" (Motorcycle Clubs Bible - How to Run Your MC) Operations and Protocol John E. Bunch II The Black Dragon National President Discover the path to joining a motorcycle club, gaining crucial insights into the prospecting process and adhering to the etiquette of traditional, law-abiding clubs… 180 Pages Amazon
The Meaning of Bike Motorcycle Philosophy Robert Hopwood Delve into how riding transcends mechanics, becoming a journey of self-discovery and personal meaning… 292 Pages Amazon
The Official DVSA Guide to Learning to Ride 9th UK ed. Motorcycle Training and Education The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency Essential guidance for aspiring motorcyclists in the UK. Packed with updated information, practical tips, and clear instructions… 230 Pages Amazon
Chronicles of a Motorcycle Gypsy: The 49 States Tour Travel/Adventure Tiffani Burkett Experience the thrill of adventure, the freedom of the open road, and the unique bond between rider and journey… 338 Pages Amazon
The Tiddler Invasion: Small Motorcycles of the Sixties (Color Edition) History Floyd M. Orr The charm and innovation of iconic bikes that defined the 1960s era… 617 Pages Amazon
Motorcycles on the Go (Bumba Books ® — Machines That Go) Children's Motorcycle Books Kerry Dinmont Introduces the exciting world of two-wheeled adventures through engaging visuals and simple language… 24 Pages Amazon
Fearless: Lords of the Murderdrome Racing/Sports History Rick Ongstad Explore the high-speed battles and daring riders who conquered the perilous tracks… 130 Pages Amazon
Hell on Wheels: An Illustrated History of Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs Subculture History Bill Hayes This illustrated history delves into the captivating subculture, revealing stories, rivalries, and their lasting impact… 542 Pages Amazon
The Doctor, the Hitman, and the Motorcycle Gang: The True Story of One of New Jersey's Most Notorious Murder for Hire Plots Criminal Cases Involving Motorcyclists Annie McCormick Uncover a chilling tale of murder-for-hire intrigue in New Jersey's underworld. 218 Pages Amazon
A Guide to Motorcycle Racing Racing Techniques Hedley J. Cox Insights for honing skills and mastering the exhilarating world of competitive racing… 254 Amazon
Classic Motorcycle Electrics Manual Motorcycle Electrical Systems James Smith Unlock the secrets of classic motorcycles' electrical systems for enthusiasts and restorers… 275 Pages Amazon
CHAINS: Night Rebels Motorcycle Club (Night Rebels MC Romance Book 8) Romance Fiction Chiah Wilder The intense emotions and unexpected love within the dynamic realm of motorcycle clubs… 270 Pages Amazon
Ubuntu: One Woman's Motorcycle Odyssey Across Africa Travel/Adventure/ Journey Memoirs Heather Ellis A testament to the resilience of both rider and spirit, capturing the essence of exploration, human connection, and the transformative power of travel… 300 Pages Amazon
Two-Stroke Motorcycle Engine Maintenance and Repair Engine Repair and Maintenance Dave Boothroyd The intricacies of two-stroke motorcycle engines, offering step-by-step instructions for maintenance, repair, and optimization… 163 Pages Amazon
The Build: How the Masters Design Custom Motorcycles Customization Robert Hoekman Jr Immersive journey into the realm of custom motorcycle design, celebrating the fusion of engineering, aesthetics, and passion… 192 Pages Amazon
The Women's Guide to Motorcycling: Everything a Woman Needs to Know About Bikes, Equipment, Riding, and Safety Riding Guide for Women Lynda Lahman Practical advice on equipment, maintenance, and safety, empowering women to confidently embrace the open road… 297 Pages Amazon
The Essential Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance Maintenance Guide Mark Zimmerman Precise instructions, a task-oriented outline for troubleshooting, and expert guidance on maintaining your bike in its best possible condition… 256 Pages Amazon
American Iron Magazine Presents 1001 Harley-Davidson Facts: Covers 1903 to Present Harley-Davidson History and Facts Tyler Greenblatt Fascinating facts, insights, and milestones in the evolution of Harley-Davidson… 367 Pages Amazon
Do It While You Still Can: Motorcycle Escapades and Tribulations Adventure/Travel Stories Nick Adams Humor, insight, and genuine experiences, Adams invites readers to join him on his journeys across diverse landscapes… 181 Pages Amazon
BSA MC1 250 Grand Prix Prototype 1955: A 250 Grand Prix Challenger That Never Was... (The Motorcycle Files) Racing History Alan Cathcart The essence of a moment in racing history when innovation and ambition intersected, creating a captivating narrative for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike… 60 Pages Amazon
Going the Wrong Way: A Coming Of Age Story Like No Other Adventure/Coming-of-Age Stories Chris Donaldson An epic Australian adventure in search of self-discovery and a fresh start, navigating through unexpected encounters, trials, and ultimately, triumphs… 402 Pages Amazon
100 Years of the Isle of Man TT: A Century of Motorcycle Racing - Updated Edition covering 2007-2012 Isle of Man TT History David Wright An engaging journey through the TT's milestones, showcasing its enduring allure and its pivotal role in shaping the history of motorcycle racing… 300 Pages Amazon
Across America by Motor-Cycle Travel Memoirs C. K. Shepherd With vivid descriptions and personal reflections, Shepherd shares the ups and downs of the road, the people encountered, and the profound connection between rider and land… 193 Pages Amazon
Jacks, Knaves and Kings of Speed: 20th Century Heroes and Villains of Motorsport Motorsport History Alastair Walker A captivating exploration of the personalities that shaped the world of motorsport during the 20th century… 91 Pages Amazon
Motorcycle Porn: Portraits and Stories Motorcycle Culture and Portraits Frank J. Bott Personal connections and stories that tie people to their bike… 128 Pages Amazon
Triumph: The Art of the Motorcycle Triumph Motorcycle History and Art Zef Enault & Michael Levivier The blend of engineering and aesthetic mastery that defines Triumph's unique place in motorcycling history… 459 Pages Amazon
The Honda Valkyrie Honda Valkyrie Enthusiast Guide Peter Rakestrow The history, design, and enduring appeal of the Honda Valkyrie, showcasing its unique features, engineering innovations, and the cultural impact it has made in the motorcycling world… 160 Pages Amazon
The One Percenter Encyclopedia Outlaw Motorcycle Club History Bill Hayes A comprehensive resource for anyone seeking to understand the nuances of motorcycle gang culture and its place within broader society… 259 Pages Amazon
The Best of Peter Egan: Four Decades of Motorcycle Tales and Musings from the Pages of Cycle World Motorcycle Stories and Reflections Peter Egan A timeless tribute to the joy and camaraderie of motorcycling, resonating with enthusiasts and riders who share a love for the unique experiences that define life on two wheels… 288 Pages Amazon
Indian Sport Scout 1936 Racer - An American Racing Icon: A Hand-Change Hot Rod (The Motorcycle Files) Vintage Motorcycle Racing History Alan Cathcart Captures the spirit of a bygone era, celebrating the craftsmanship, innovation, and racing heritage that make the Indian Sport Scout a timeless symbol of American motorcycle culture… 91 Pages Amazon
Scout's Guide to Supercross 2016 (Scout's Guide to Motorcycle Racing 2016 Book 1) Supercross Racing Tips Chris Martin An indispensable resource for those looking to deepen their understanding and appreciation of supercross racing… 134 Pages Amazon
Motorcycle Adventurer: Carl Stearns Clancy: First Motorcyclist to Ride Around the World 1912-1913 Adventure History Dr. Gregory W. Frazier Homage to an unforgettable adventure that shaped the course of motorcycle travel and continues to inspire modern-day explorers… 309 Pages Amazon
Never Say Never: The Inside Story of the Motorcycle World Championships Behind-the-Scenes of Motorcycle World Championships Nick Harris A unique perspective on the challenges, rivalries, and the determination that drive these elite athletes to push the limits… 381 Pages Amazon
The Little Black Book of Motorcycle Wisdom (Little Red Books) Motorcycle Wisdom and Quotes Niels Aaboe Nuggets of wisdom that resonate with riders of all levels, capturing the essence of the motorcycle experience… 225 Pages Amazon
BSA Motorcycles - The Final Evolution BSA Motorcycle Legacy and Developments Brad Jones With meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, Jones delves into the final phase of BSA's journey, tracing the brand's innovations, challenges, and the factors that led to its evolution… 364 Pages Amazon
Simple Motorcycle Maintenance Tasks to Save You Thousands DIY Motorcycle Maintenance Tips Harry Swann Valuable resource for riders of all levels, providing the confidence to keep their motorcycles in top condition and avoid unnecessary expenses… 75 Pages Amazon
BMW Airhead Twins: The Complete Story (Crowood Motoclassics) BMW Motorcycle History Phil West The history, design, and evolution of the legendary BMW Airhead Twins… 208 Pages Amazon
Easy Motorcycle Touring: A Rider's Guide to the Open Road Touring Tips Barry Dwernychuk Essential tips and insights to ensure successful and enjoyable touring experiences… 199 Pages Amazon
A-Z of Italian Motorcycle Manufacturers 1st Edition Italian Motorcycle History From iconic brands to lesser-known manufacturers, this book provides an in-depth exploration of the contributions, innovations, and legacies of each company… 181 Pages Amazon
The Triumph Tiger Cub Bible Triumph Club motorcycle History Mike Estall A comprehensive guidebook for enthusiasts and owners of Triumph Tiger Cub motorcycles, offering in-depth information, history, and maintenance tips for this iconic motorcycle model... 442 Pages Amazon
Girl on a Motorcycle Children's Adventure Amy Novesky A picture book that tells the inspiring true story of Anne-France Dautheville, the first woman to ride a motorcycle around the world... 48 Pages Amazon
Michael’s Summary and Conclusion
When writing this article about the most popular books about motorcycling, the first thing I pondered was whether the person is more interested in the motorcycle itself as a machine or in riding.
When I first started riding on the street at 14 years old while living in Paris, I did all the work on my two motorcycles. I owned an Italian Malaguti and a Spanish Derbi. I handled all the mechanical work for several reasons. First, it was novel and intriguing. Secondly, I didn’t have much money to spare for repairs. Of course, there was also a language barrier, making it more challenging to communicate with a French person to fix these issues and to figure out how to do it myself.
Upon returning to the United States and starting road racing, and again not having any money, I spent many days and nights working on my bikes to get them ready for the next day’s race. I often worked in terrible conditions outside in the grass, perhaps on a 95-degree day with high humidity – quite a miserable experience. So, I think by the time I turned 21, I had truly lost interest in performing any mechanical tasks. It was my love for riding motorcycles that fueled my motivation and passion.
Thus, in terms of personal preference, I’m more interested in books, videos, or movies about motorcycle riding and the culture of motorcycling, as well as traveling by motorcycle. While there are excellent books and videos about motorcycle mechanics, it’s not something that personally captivates me.
Above all, I simply love to ride, which is why I own motorcycles in Thailand, Ukraine, and Vietnam, in addition to the dozen I have here in the United States. Various forms of motorcycling hold a deep passion for me — from street bike riding to adventure touring, enduro rides, and road racing; they all hold a special place in my heart. In recent years, I’ve developed a strong affinity for riding in foreign countries and have spent a lot of time doing so in Thailand, Vietnam, and Ukraine, resulting in wonderful experiences in all these places.
So, choose a book that aligns with your specific interest, but most importantly, get out and ride!
I've diligently categorized my motorcycle gear recommendations into all available categories, with the aim of providing you with a comprehensive analysis that showcases the absolute best options for all your needs. These items are the culmination of in-depth research, extensive testing, and personal use throughout my vast experience of 50+ years in the world of motorcycling. Besides being a passionate rider, I've held leadership positions and offered consultancy services to reputable companies in over 25 countries. To See Top Picks and the Best Prices & Places to Buy: Click Here!
M/A