4In the modern era, mass-produced motorcycles tend to be of Japanese or Italian origin with the 'big four' Asian manufacturers dominating the market. However, it wasn't always the case. Until the 1950s, even into the 60s, British makers such as Scott, Rudge, BSA, Norton and Vincent ruled the roost. These legendary companies sold their bikes around the world, winning racing championships and setting speed records as they went. They, and many smaller British firms like them, are motorcycling's founding companies. This is the story of those pioneering firms, whose engineers - many self-taught - were fired by racing ambition, commercial rivalry, patriotic duty, and above all, a passion for innovation. Superbly illustrated with over 150 color pictures many previously unpublished Classic British Motorcycles is a captivating and highly informative account of the men, machines, race meetings and world events that shaped the development of the motorcycle from its bicycle origins.