I’ve seen plenty of learn-to-ride books over the years, mostly because I’ve been working for motorcycle magazines for well over a decade and the publishers used to print a lot of these books, and send ’em to us for review.
Most of those books were the same: Carefully-composed shots of riders approaching corners or cone courses with a serious case of Cruiserface. Carefully-lit shots of helmets, jackets, gloves, pants, anything to get the ATGATT message out. From the perspective of a former graphic designer, those books mostly looked… boring. They had lots of information, but they were not aspirational.
While sorting through the inbox yesterday, I saw an email promoting a new learn-to-ride book, Steve Krugman’s The Craft & Art of Motorcycling, including a link to a pre-press PDF of the book. I decided to give it a quick flip-through, and was surprised to finally see a book that more-or-less understands how to market motorcycling to modern, hip readers.
Because Krugman’s book is based around illustrations, not boring photos of riders in budget-friendly gear, it’s far more of an aspirational read than the instructionals of old. And, it’s able to explain various mechanical processes with drawings, where photos would have been confusing or impossible in some older books.
I have never heard of Krugman before, but he’s billed as “Hollywood’s go-to riding guru,” so I guess celebrities trust him, for whatever that is worth. Looking through this book, it’s definitely aimed at noobs, not so much for experienced riders. If you know the basics, you should invest in a copy of something like Twist of the Wrist or Proficient Motorcycling or one of a dozen other books that teaches advanced techniques. However, I think even veteran motorcyclists will enjoy looking through the book (before wrapping it up for their nephew for Christmas?).
如果你moto-curious,或知道其他人谁is? This book isdefinitelyworth a look, as long as you aren’t annoyed by the artwork. I think that, unlike the old-fashioned beginner books, this book itselfwill make you want to learn to ride.
I personally like it, but it certainly won’t please everyone (some people probably would be much happier with the Cruiserface photographs). I particularly liked the regular emphasis on details other books ignored, such as scooter riding tips. However, I did feel some of the wording and instruction around braking was perhaps… clumsy. As someone who’s done a few miles and read a few of these books, I understood what the author meant, but an easily-confused reader whose regular intake is Twitter, not an information-heavy book, might not quite get it, if they only read the first paragraphs in Chapter Four. I suppose there is very little you can do to help people who don’t actually take the time to learn properly, though!
The Craft & Art of Motorcycling publishes in late June in paperback, with a price of $34.99 in the US or $45.99 in Canada. It has 176 pages and 100 illustrations. See Quarto’s press release below:
Do you dream of riding a motorcycle? The Craft & Art of Motorcycling will help make your dream a reality—from your first ride to the road ahead.
Hollywood’s go-to riding guru, Steve Krugman, has trained thousands of riders including high-profile actors, musicians, and athletes. The Craft and Art of Motorcycling is based on his years of experience developing unique, effective, and proven riding methods.
In clear, relaxed language, Krugman offers complete understanding of the bike itself and riding fundamentals (the Craft), with concepts, strategies, and insights that lead to mastery on the road (the Art).
Key topics include:
Motorcycle controls and operation
Fundamental skills—starting, stopping, shifting, and turning
Real-world cornering technique
Low-speed control and emergency maneuvers
Street- and road-riding strategies
Managing riding conditions and the elements
Selecting gear and buying your first bikeThe Craft and Art of Motorcycling is an accessible and comprehensive introduction to motorcycle and scooter riding—simply explained and beautifully illustrated throughout—and provides an essential foundation for any rider, whether an aspiring novice, rusty returnee, or weathered road-veteran.
Author Steve Krugman brings a unique combination of background, expertise, and passion to motorcycle education. A professional musician most of his career, he earned a parallel reputation as an accomplished and in-demand teacher and clinician. Applying a passion for motorcycles and years of experience as a professional motorcycle instructor, he developed Class: M1 Private Motorcycle Training. For well over a decade, the school has introduced legions of safe, happy riders (including many high-profile actors, musicians, and athletes) to the road. The Craft and Art of Motorcycling is the product of having taught thousands to ride, and the companion to a finely honed curriculum and philosophy of motorcycle instruction.
Publishing June 20, 2023 ∙ Paperback, 176 pages, 100 images ∙ $34.99 US, $45.99 CAN ∙ ISBN: 9780760379196
