BOOKS are a wonderful gift as it allows you to find something perfectly tailored for each person on your list.
If you have someone who likes the smell of oil and getting some grease on their clothes then here are some possibilities.
- Shelby Cobra: Fifty Years, by Colin Comer. Published by Motorbooks, $44.00.
A celebration in photos and words of the World Champion Shelby Cobra is beautifully presented in this lavish book. Colin Comer does an outstanding job at following the history of this unique sports car from the concept stage and the eventual production of the first vehicle, CSX2000, through the years to the exclusive 50th anniversary models, CSX8950.
The colourful history of this American racecar includes information on its production and rise to fame, the replica market that filled the needs of enthusiasts when production ceased and the eventual creation of new models.
- The Complete Book of Porsche 911, by Randy Leffingwell. Published by Motorbooks, $49.99.
From its earliest days Porsche has captured the public's attention. With aerodynamic design and outstanding performance as their mantra, the company has lead the way for decades, creating a car that has become an automotive icon. Tracing the 911's history back to its post-war roots, Randy Leffingwell provides the background to the development of this extraordinary sports car. He devotes separate chapters to the six generations of the 911 that have been developed. Each section is filled with photographs, specifications on each model, and a detailed account of the evolution of the car.
Whether you have one or just dream of owning a Porsche, you'll find this book to be as luxurious as the car's interior.
- Russian Motor Vehicles, by Maurice A. Kelly. Published by Veloce Publishing, $27.99.
Recognizing the quirkiness of auto enthusiasts means finding something truly unusual and this look at the early days of Russia's auto industry fits that bill. Maurice A. Kelly delves into the Czarist period from 1784 to 1917 for an examination of the origins of cars that started as the first steps into mechanization.
Historic photographs and illustrations show the experiments that lead to later manufacturing of the Russo-Baltique motorcars. Kelly looks at the various manufacturers, the coach builders and later the military vehicles in this unique presentation of a specialized era of auto history.
- Art of the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle, photographs by David Blattel with text by Dain Gingerelli. Published by Motorbooks, $44.
Through the lens of photographer David Blattel the decades of production of the Harley Davidson motorcycle are presented in gorgeous colour. More than 100 motorcycles are featured in this collection that celebrates both the design and innovation that has evolved over the years.
Each bike has been photographed in a setting true to its origins and vintage, creating not just a stunning image but a statement of the era it was from. Along with the photographs are descriptions of the bikes and their specifications. The models are presented in sections that look at the earliest models, the Knuckleheads of the '40s, the Panheads of the '50s and '60s, the Sportsters, the touring bikes, the Softail models and more.
- Building the Ultimate Adventure Motorcycle, by Robert Wicks, Published by Haynes Publishing, $34.95.
If you know someone who is dreaming of a motorcycle journey off the beaten path then this book may be the one that helps guide them to making it a reality. Preparation is key when your route is going to take you far from civilization and Robert Wicks has gathered a wealth of information to help.
In this third volume on adventure touring, Wicks puts it all together with detailed looks at the top bikes currently available, a fascinating series of rider profiles from people who have put in the miles, essential gear, modifications and luggage systems.
Wicks profiles two world travellers and their different approaches to the journeys they've made. He finishes with a look at competition rallies and what is involved.
For any rider looking to go beyond the paved roads this will offer plenty of food for thought.
