For review: Italian Motor

Keeping an eye on the boot

Melding German craftsmanship and Swiss precision, no one combines form and function like the Italians. Showcasing a flair for the dramatic line, Italy’s proactive, passionate eye spills over into everything they do. From ancient Roman architecture to leading the world’s fashion tastes, Italy’s trends usually translate into accepted style. Influencing more than just hardware, the senses are also teased and tempted by the Italian way. From the dry, bold flavor of a 2004 Santa Cecilia to the ripping-silk wail of a blood-red MV Four, more than any the Italians exhibit the gift of shaping the tangible into romantic art.

Celebrating the beauty, style and innovation of Italian engineering is Italian Motor, published and overseen by English journalist/photographer James Adam Bolton. Sized in the same nuovo motif sound in similar publications like South Africa’s Master Link and the fantastically entertaining Greasy Kulture (which coincidently was founded by Bolton’s brother, Guy) Italian Motor packs plenty of punch into a compact package. Our reviewed issue contained no less than two tasty, round head Guzzi racers, a vintage MV single, a Ducati, a Bimota and a historical perspective on little known Frera. Contributing writer David McMillian pens two solid pieces before Bolton shoehorns a couple more Italian motors (a Fiat Topolino roadster and a rare 50cc Maserati street racer) into the mix.

Well written and featuring inspired photography, Italian Motor reflects the drive and determination of Bolton, who learned to speak Italian in order to bolster his research abilities. With solid contacts and a considerable portfolio of published material to lean on, Bolton seems more than up to the task of blowing the lid off the economically-challenged print media. Reader input and contributions are welcomed, so visit the online sites listen below and get in on the passion, speed and beauty of Italian Motor. Nolan Woodbury

Bike of the Month

Triumph Speed Triple

"...credited for kicking off the production street fighter craze, many traditionalists view the original Speed Triple as one of the best conceived factory cafe' racers ever produced. Striking in any color (US buyers could choose between red, black or the iconic Fireball Orange) Bloor/Triumph's first commercial success rates exceptional marks for originality, mechanical excellence and the kind of drop dead styling that compares to legendary brands like Vincent, Laverda and Brough Superior. Responsible in large part for the renaissance of the British motorcycling industry...” Read more