I tell you right away. This photographic history of early women motorcyclists is a treasure. Cristine Sommer-Simmons spent years collecting a wealth of impressive period pictures of the true pioneers of motorcycling.
Women such as Bessie Stringfield and Dot robinson who were brave enough to ride all over the country, braving all weather conditions, defying social conventions and showing their strength and independent spirit.
Men, you will fall under the charm of these women riding just about every early brand you’ve ever heard, Harleys, Indians, Popes, Hendersons, Flying Merkels, etc. Women, you will enjoy looking at the clothing they wore and the undeniable peace and freedom on their faces. And everybody will love detailing all these old motorcycles and some of you may find in them some customization inspiration. Pictures of magazine covers, of clothing ads and posters are of very high quality set in a very appealing graphical layout. Reading each woman story is captivating. I have a special affection for this book. You will too. Published last month and already a best-seller. Harcover 240 pages. Order online at American Motorcycle Girls 1900 To 1950.
…just bought it – i must get out more….
Just ordered. Impatient to read this one.
Nice piece, looks like a sure winner!
Kick-start
Foot Clutch
Hand Shift
No rider training courses
No helmet laws
No anty-lock brakes
No country-wide dealer networks.
No Chase Truck
No Cell Phones
No Towing Insurance
No Freeways
Mostly Gravel, Mud, & Dirt roads.
AND ……. (wait for it)……. 🙂 NO Nanny-state Legislation.
My GOD!! How did they survive………… ???
Sort-a re-calibrates the image of the “American Bikers” as a self reliant, rugged individual.
Which begs the question, how do you stack up…….???
-nicker-
Incredible book, very very well done…..I just LOVE mine!!
Cris has been an incredible force in motorcycling since her early days as co-creator of Harley Women, and this is just another step down her amazing path. American Motorcycle Girls is pure magic – beautiful, sophisticated, playful and smart. She documents the story of women riders, and their contributions to our sport and lifestyle skillfully and with panache! Bravo, Cris!
coffe table goodness.
nicker ,you are 150% right on!!!!!!!
I knew one of these ladies. She and her husband were carnies and they could tell some great stories. Can’t wait to read this.
Amazing. A masterpiece presentation about motorcycle girls.
What strikes me is how much this book looks like a typical book on motorcycle history, except women are the riders and men stand in the background. It points out how much women riders have been left out of all the other books. A great addition to any collection, especially for the photos, and the text is both substantive and fun to read. I hope Cris publishes an inevitable companion to this for women who rode in the last half of the 20th century.