Spiegel's metaphor considers the rider and the motorcycle as a single unit, the rider being the upper half. Taking a multidisciplinary approach, Spiegel draws on anthropology, psychology, biology, physics, and other disciplines to analyze the theory and function of the man-machine unit. Motorcycle riding is seen as a serendipitous junction where people have created machines for personal transport and then become so adept at using them that the machine becomes like an artificial limb -- part of the rider himself. The ultimate goal for riders is the integration of the man-machine interface and skill development to the point of virtuosity. Spiegel considers the various aspects of motorcycle riding that must be understood, practiced, and mastered before virtuosity can be attained. Many anecdotes, supplementary material, and in-depth treatment of specialized topics is contained in sidebars and footnotes. Numerous diagrams and photographs illustrate the book's principles.

    

    This book, published on the occasion of a major exhibition at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York, in summer 1998, brings together 100 spectacular motorcycles from the first -- the 1885 Daimler Einspur -- through the latest in cutting-edge concept bikes.This book captures the spirit of the motorcycle and the passion and excitement it has aroused in film, literature, television and on the road. Among the gems selected on both technical and aesthetic grounds are the 1894 Hildebrand & Wolffmuller 1500cc; the pivotal BMW R32; the late 1920s four-passenger Boehmerland/Czechie; the immensely popular 1950s Honda 50 Super Cub; the quintessentially American 1977 Harley Davidson XLCR; and the Ducati 916, one of the most beautiful motor cycles ever produced.Each bike is fully described and extensive scholarly matter is provided. The essays discuss motorcycle-related films, fashion lifestyle, and history.