Geoff Duke

This is the fifth book from the pen of prolific author Mick Walker aimed a chronicling the lives and careers of the world’s greatest motorcycle champions. Published by Breedon books it follows the same excellent format of the previous four on Surtees, Hailwood, McIntyre and Agostini. As a result it is just as easy to dip in and out of as it is to read from cover to cover.

Subtitled ‘The Stylish Champion’  the 250 pages make the case for Duke being recognised as the first of the true professional riders who was just as important off the track to the factories as he was brilliant on it.

He certainly made his racing mark by gaining six world championships, first on Norton’s and then on Italian Gilera’s, in fact he was the first person ever to win three 500 titles in a row!

He was also the first motorcyclist to win the coveted ‘Sportsman of the Year’ awards and only the second to be awarded an OBE. He is credited with pioneering one-piece leathers, in fact the list goes on and quite rightly so. Geoff Duke was known for his smooth flowing riding style and despite retiring in 1959 after a relatively short career, which included trials, he remained involved with the sport in a variety of roles, bringing that same style and professionalism with him from the track.

The book is liberally spread with some superb archive photos, (many not seen before) of Duke and other star riders of the era. Like the previous books in the series, these riders too are brought to life, making it an excellent history of the times and the people who made it. 

This latest is as good as the previous four in the series, which is building into a useful history of motorcycle racing and a must for any enthusiast’s bookshelf. Available from all good bookshops or direct from Breedon Books (www.breedonbooks.co.uk) at £19.99 ISBN 1 85983 545 6

Review by Ian Kerr