Harley-Davidson: The American Motorcycle

Originally airing on TBS earlier this year, this star-studded video tribute to the world's oldest motorcycle company (begun in 1903), includes an extra 24 minutes not seen in the broadcast version. Beginning with the early motorized bikes at the turn of the century which, as singer-songwriter David Crosby points out, were impractical since it was uncomfortable having "a coal burner hissing away beneath your rump," the program covers the various evolutions of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle line over the past 90 years. Hoyt Axton narrates, while onscreen celebrity hosts James Caan, Peter Fonda, Larry Hagman, Wynona Judd, Lou Reed, Judd Nelson, Dwight Yoakum, and Travis Tritt each offer a piece of the fascinating story which covers subjects as diverse as how the motorcycle came to be linked with rebellious youth to how the police saved the Harley-Davidson company from going under. In addition to the stories, songs, and bikes to listen to and look at, the tape contains clips from films ranging back to early Buster Keaton all the way up to the rash of 60s and 70s biker flicks, including the all-time champion biker film Easy Rider. Entertaining and informative, Harley-Davidson: The American Motorcycle is sure to be a popular addition. Highly recommended. (Available from most distributors.)