Maico - by David Wayne Russell (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, a small family-owned German company made and exported the world's best off-road motorcycles. In 1981, Maico introduced what may be the finest production motocross bike, for its time, ever built, establishing the basic measurements for modern dirt bikes. North American competitors embraced the Maico, paying high prices for an often-infuriating thoroughbred which carried them into a new, exciting sport with physical and financial risks. Yet by 1983, Maico was bankrupt.

This work presents the full story of this influential company's rise and fall. Employing archaeological methods and oral history, this book answers questions which have long fascinated sport motorcyclists: What made Maico so good? How did long-travel suspension originate? Why did the company really fail? The first history published in English, this book fills a crucial gap for enthusiasts of motorcycle history: the story of Maico, and what it meant to Americans.

Review Quotes

"This book fills a void in motorcycle history... Russell's book is a quite extraordinary effort in terms of methodology and tone... this book will present you with a fully fleshed-out survey of the motorcycle as a transportation tool and phenomenon vis-a-vis the American rider, or, for that matter, critic of motorcycling... The breadth and depth of author Russell's education and interests are readily discernible."--Speedreaders

About the Author

David Wayne Russell is a retired military officer, pilot and historical artist. His writes on the military and motorcycling and holds a PhD in American Studies from Penn State. He lives in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.