{"product_id":"9781861893451","title":"Motorcycle","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eEasy Rider\u003c\/i\u003e. Motocross Grand Prix. James Dean in \u003ci\u003eRebel Without a Cause\u003c\/i\u003e. The motorcycle is a global icon of untamed freedom, symbolizing a daring and reckless lifestyle of adventure. Yet there are few books that chronicle how and when this legendary vehicle roared down the open road. \u003ci\u003eMotorcycle\u003c\/i\u003e explores the roots of the rebel’s ultimate ride.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter early incarnations as a nineteenth-century steam-powered bicycle and multi-wheeled vehicles, the modern motorcycle came into its own as a cheap, mobile military asset during World War I. From there, it rapidly spread through modern culture as a symbol of rebellion and subversive power, and \u003ci\u003eMotorcycle \u003c\/i\u003etracks the symbolic role that the bike has played in literature, art, and film. The authors also investigate the international subcultures that revolve around the motorcycle and scooter. They chart the emergence of American biker culture in the 1950s, when decommissioned fighter pilots sought new ways to satiate their desire for thrill and danger, and explore how the motorcycle came to represent the untamed nonconformity of the American West. In contrast, smaller scooters such as the Vespa and moped became the utilitarian vehicle of choice in space-starved metropolises across Europe and Asia. Ultimately, the authors argue, the motorbike is the exemplary Modernist object, dependent on the perfect balance of man and machine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn unprecedented and wholly engrossing account, \u003ci\u003eMotorcycle \u003c\/i\u003eis an essential reading for the Harley-Davidson roadhog, bike collector, or anyone who’s felt the power of the unmistakable king of the road.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Reaktion Books, Limited","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47039473942768,"sku":"9781861893451","price":27.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0737\/7593\/9824\/files\/9781861893451_p0.jpg?v=1763600799","url":"https:\/\/shop-qa.barnesandnoble.com\/products\/9781861893451","provider":"Barnes \u0026 Noble (DEV)","version":"1.0","type":"link"}