Like many of you my introduction to Indian Larry came as I watched the Discovery Channels television series Biker Build Off.   I was intrigued by his bike designs, his “go to hell” attitude and his personal appearance.  I thought, here’s a man marching to the beat of his own drum, but I had no idea of  the story behind the man.  So when asked to review the book Indian Larry, Chopper Shaman by Dave Nichols, I jumped at the opportunity.

In this fascinating read, Nichols, begins by detailing the formative years of Larry’s life from his proclivities for building things from the age of four, to the death of his sister Diane.  Learning more about his childhood gave me greater insight as to how this larger than life character evolved.

Dave Nichols, masterfully sheds light on the roller coaster ride that was Lawrence DeSmelt’s (Indian Larry’s birth name) life.  From his days in Catholic school, his short stint as a bank robber, to his lowest point as a heroin addict.  But the book doesn’t end there.  The author goes on to show Larry’s phenomenal turn around as he became one the most influential bike builders of our times.

 While reading this story I began to see Indian Larry not only as a genius bike designer, but a valued friend, a normal guy dealing with a loads of personal tragedy and simply trying to cope with life the best he knew how.

Indian Larry: Chopper Shaman, is a true life drama of hope and inspiration. Filled with over 250 brilliant photos by Michael Lichter I highly recommend adding this one to your library.

Pick up your copy today at  motorbooks.com

With some of the longest winter days ahead, I thought this would be a great time to share a good read with you.    Matt Stone, executive editor of Motor Trend magazine, has written a book on the “King of Cool”;  Steve McQueen.  “McQueen’s Machines” allows you to peak into the fast and furious world of this man whose passion for automobiles and motorcycles was contagious.  The book is filled with some 200 photos, some of which have never been seen, as well as family stories and several  behind the scene glimpses into the filming of the super 1971 movie, LeMans.

I have had this book around for a while and find myself going back to it time and time again.  I can’t tell you how often I catch myself re-telling some of the anecdotes from the book with my buddies, as well as many of the amazing photos.  The book is published by Motorbooks and you can pick up your copy here.  Be sure and check it out.

When one thinks of BMW, images of tradition, quality, beauty, and engineering, often come to mind.  In this book; “The Art of BMW 85 Years of Motorcycling Excellence, author Peter Gantriis, and photographer Henry von Wartenberg, capture these images with the greatest of skill.  Although the book covers the entire history of BMW motorcycles, the brightest light shines on the BMW motorcycles built in the pre-WWII era, highlighting one of the finest private collections in the world owned by Peter Nettesheim.

As I poured over the 192 pages I was reminded that this book has something for everyone…

• For the lover of history.  You will be taken back to 1917 Germany and the beginnings of Bayerische Motorenwerke.  You will gain insight of the circumstance under which this company developed.
• For the photographer. The 143 striking color photos will keep you in awe as you immerse yourself in Wartenberg’s unique perspectives.
• For the engineer.  Examining the simple yet elegant lines of these historic bikes will give you a greater appreciation for the early craftsmanship who designed these machines.

If you are passionate about motorcycles this book is a must to add to your library.  I am confident you will find yourself returning to it’s pages over and over again.  Order here!

Rick Slark