Bikers' Bookshelf

By tradition, the motorcycle is a naked beast, differing from other vehicles by the fact that its mechanical structure is also part of its aesthetic appearance. In the Fine Art of the Motorcycle Engine, photographer Daniel Peirce examines the graphic nature of historic engines with stunning and dramatic photography. Since the beginning of the motorbike, engine designers knew they had to design power plants that performed well and looked good doing it. Peirce presents 64 stunning pictures from his popular Up-N-Smoke Engine Project. In addition to his engine photography, the book also tells the story of the project and the years it took to bring it from an inspired idea to a tangible reality. The story of the Up-N-Smoke Engine Project journals how what started as an artistic outlet became an obsession and eventually a business. This is the project that- Cycle World – magazine called pornography for gearheads. A special chapter is included showing the process that each picture needed to go through in order to create the finished product.

In addition to the immaculate panhead pictured on the cover, this book features nearly 100 rare, bizarre or otherwise interesting engine shots, and is well worth a look even if you aren’t as twisted as Dan. – V-Twin News –

If ever there was a labour of love, this book is it. Containing more than 60 individual engine photos, the book is a visual treat that tells not only the story of the motorcycles and engines portrayed, but also the story of the project from start to finish. – motorcycleclassics.com

The images are stunning and have been cleverly retouched by using modern computer techniques, so the motor is viewed in its best light and from its most photogenic angle … It is this totally different approach that for me makes this hardback coffee table book a must-have … Highly recommended! – inter-bike.co.uk

… a photographic tribute to the essence of what many of us find so attractive about motorcycles in the first place, a tribute to the heart of the machine, the mechanical motive force … the engine. If you are one of those who would rather see functional metal than decal covered plastic, this is definitely worth a look. – thekneeslider.com – The motorcycle engine as art. Super gallery of photography. – Classic Bike

Aspiring photographers will want to turn to the last chapter first because it shows a step-by-step explanation of the process of turning raw photos into eye candy such as this. Actually, anyone should read this chapter for a greater appreciation of the results. –The Flying Lady