inter-bike.co.uk, 2008 UK biker website Written by Peter Henshaw this is the latest in the 'bible' series published by Veloce and features all the BSA Bantam range from 1948 until their demise in 1971. In terms of subject matter it is probably the least exotic machinery to be covered in the series, but follows the same tried and trusted format that has been used before with good effect. While most of us might not readily admit it, we have all owned a Bantam at some stage in our British motorcycling career and regarded it as something of a utility machine, not something to be loved and cherished. However, within the 160 pages of this lavishly illustrated hardback are reasons to take a different look at the bike next time you see one at a show, or even in your garage!Contained among the historical and mechanical information is testimony from owners who have raced and rallied them and have enjoyed quite extensive motorcycle careers on the humble two-stroke design that came from DKW after the war.The last chapter, as always, explains what it is like to run and own one of the machines profiled in the book, before ending with a very comprehensive set of appendices. These give not only figures, but a comprehensive list of year by year changes to help any restorer or historian identify a particular machine.

As always it is well laid out and illustrated with the usual mix of modern and period images as well as advertising and period documentation, with the odd pencil drawing thrown in.The paper quality and general finish of this hardback is excellent and the whole book is an entertaining read about one of Britain best loved machines, all for $59.95.