Surprisingly concise this Motor Cycle News special publication is an instant collectible

As the dollar shrinks and debt mounts, book and magazine publishers are faced with increased pressure to release the surefire product. In November of 2009 Motor Cycle News (http://www.motorcyclenews.com) a leading UK-based press consortium unveiled this glossy, 130 page square-bound volume that comprehensively looks back at the modern super bike period. Impressive in size, material and content, Superbikes 40 Glorious Years might rest in your bookstore’s magazine section, but trust us when we say it betters many so called “upscale” releases by a mile.

Sailing in on the tail end of its shelf life, I confess that I only picked up my issue a few days ago; some six-months after the release date. Just the same, there’s little real dated material in Superbikes, save for the ‘Class of 2009’ section found near the end. The layout is straight forward with sample highlights from each decade (chronicling 1969 through 2009) and interlaced with articles ranging from technical highpoints, scale model availability, a nicely illustrated racing section and a year-by-year top speed chart.

Most interesting are MCN’s featured choices. Mixing some rather shocking omissions (Ducati 750SS/Imola replica, R100RS) with entertaining surprises (Munch Mammoth, Guzzi 750 S3) the motorcycle list evens out fairly. And while a few of the staff’s editorial comments follow some well worn (and still inaccurate) gaffes, the majority of MCN’s technical and historical observations show the work of careful research and passion. Made to last and printed on heavy stock, the breathtaking photography in Superbikes 40 Glorious Years mixes with a pleasing balance of color and techno art to offer a beautifully orchestrated read. A must have for the Super bike owner, collector or fan, get yours while you still can. Nolan Woodbury