Mick Walker, the ride of my life

'It was spring 1961, and I was in full flow, flicking my new metallic-blue and silver Ducati Daytona through a tight series of hedge-lined bends...' Fifty years ago, 'super enthusiast' Mick Walker set out on the ride that would change his life. Everyone with an interest in motorcycling's classic era, or where it is going in the future, will find his story a fascinating read. As a rider, racer, and dealer in many of the most desirable bikes of all time, Mick Walker has lived and breathed motorcycles for the past 50 years. Today, he is best known for his books, written with a unique authority as an industry insider. Since 1985, Walker has published over 130 marque histories and rider biographies, drawing upon an expert knowledge that is second to none. His books have covered classics from Italy, Britain, Germany, Japan, the US, and all over the world.

His own involvement had the humblest beginnings, riding a bike to work and to follow his growing enthusiasm for motorcycle sport. However, despite a shoestring budget, his passion and riding skill took him close to the upper echelons of roadracing during the 1960s, when he made personal friends of many of the all-time greats. With memories of his own struggle to get started, Mick would later help to further the career of many rising stars as a team boss and mentor.

Mick went on to found his own highly successful business as a spares supplier, dealer, tuner and importer. During the 1970s and '80s, Mick Walker Motorcycles became the first stop for British riders of Italian bikes, helping to cement the reputation of Ducati, Moto Guzzi, MV, Cagiva and many more. When that business closed, Mick went on to forge his new career as a writer and expert consultant to the motorcycle trade.

This fascinating autobiography draws on a lifetime's experience to bring half a century of classic motorcycling to life. It pulls no punches to deliver a warts-and-all personal portrait from Mick's unique position as a rider, racer, dealer, author and - above all - enthusiast for everything that motorcycling at its best can be.

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