The Riders explores and celebrates the differences and common bonds among motorcyclists around the world via Henry von Wartenbergs engaging and inviting documentary photography.
Motorcyclists feel a kinship with fellow riders that is not easily explained but runs deeper than choices like bike brand or riding focus. You see it sometimes with a wave of the hand from one lane to the next, with an appreciative nod at a stoplight, or in a U-turn to check on a rider stranded on the roadside.
Motorcyclists make a conscious decision to ride an inherently dangerous device, a machine open to the elements and vagaries of nature. A motorcycle demands a level of attention far greater than a car and consequences for inattention are much graver. On the flip side, riding a motorcycle offers an unmatched sense of freedom, adventure, and involvement.
Von Wartenberg, a long-time rider himself, has traveled the world on a variety of assignments, some motorcycle related and others not. But wherever he was on the planet, he always found a way to connect with fellow riders and document their culture and machines. Over the course of his travels he has photographed riders in more than 30 countries including Bolivia, Austria, Canada, Chile, China, Costa Rica, France, Mongolia, Mexico, Italy, Germany, Iceland, Peru, Spain, the United States, England, and Thailand to name a few.
What emerges on the pages of The Riders is the amazing breadth of the motorcycling world, from outlaw clubs to adventurers to racers to boulevard cruisers to those for whom a motorcycle is the only form of transportation as well a means to make a living.
The Riders is a book sure to be enjoyed by anyone who embraces the two-wheeled world.
Embark on a visual journey around the globe with "The Riders: Motorcycle Adventurers, Cruisers, Outlaws, and Racers the World Over," a captivating photographic tribute by Henry von Wartenberg to the diverse and deeply connected world of motorcycling. This stunning hardcover book, published by Motorbooks in 2021, transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences to reveal the shared passion that unites riders of all stripes. More than just a collection of photographs, "The Riders" is an immersive exploration of the motorcycling spirit. Von Wartenberg, a seasoned rider and accomplished photographer, skillfully captures the essence of what it means to be a motorcyclist the thrill of the open road, the inherent risks, the camaraderie, and the unparalleled sense of freedom. Through his lens, we witness the dedication, the individuality, and the raw emotion that define this unique subculture. From the dusty backroads of Bolivia to the bustling streets of Bangkok, from the rugged landscapes of Iceland to the sun-drenched highways of California, Von Wartenberg has traversed the world, documenting the lives and machines of riders in over 30 countries. He doesn't just photograph motorcycles; he captures the stories behind them, the people who ride them, and the communities they create. Inside "The Riders," you'll encounter a breathtaking tapestry of motorcycling experiences. Witness the adrenaline-fueled intensity of racers pushing their limits on the track, the rebellious spirit of outlaw clubs forging their own path, the unwavering determination of adventurers conquering challenging terrains, and the laid-back camaraderie of boulevard cruisers enjoying a leisurely ride. The book also sheds light on the vital role motorcycles play in many developing nations, where they serve as essential modes of transportation and sources of income. Von Wartenberg's insightful narrative complements his stunning photographs, providing context and depth to the diverse motorcycling cultures he encounters. He explores the unspoken bonds that unite riders, regardless of their background, bike brand, or riding style. That familiar wave, the knowing nod, the offer of assistance to a stranded rider these are the universal gestures of a global community. With 192 pages filled with captivating images, "The Riders" is a must-have addition to any motorcycle enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned rider, a weekend warrior, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and power of motorcycles, this book will transport you to far-flung corners of the world and introduce you to the vibrant and passionate community of riders who call them home. Prepare to be inspired, moved, and reminded of the enduring allure of two wheels and the open road. "The Riders" is a testament to the freedom, adventure, and camaraderie that define the motorcycling lifestyle.