Japanese Production Racing Motorcycles (Mick Walker)

As this book explains, the Japanese did not suddenly become proficient in the design & development of motorcycles when they first appeared in Europe at the end of the 1950s. Instead, the Japanese had been involved with motorcycles since the beginning of the 20th century. True, early Japanese motorcycles copied Western design - a trend that continued for several years after WWII. But soon they designed a succession of highly innovative machinery, not only to the Grand Prix world's benefit but to the paying 'over-the-counter' customer, too. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, & Yamaha, plus Bridgestone and Tohatsu, have all built & sold racing motorcycles which the public could also buy & enjoy.