Motorcycles, Mates and Memories – Bill Snelling

Motorcycling social history, as seen from the saddle.

In Motorcycles, Mates and Memories, Bill Snelling delivers an engaging and nostalgic autobiography that celebrates a lifetime spent immersed in the heart of British motorcycle sport — and life on the legendary Isle of Man. A lifelong motorcyclist, Bill recalls decades of two-wheeled adventures, competition, and camaraderie, sharing vivid stories of “living the dream” through mud, madness, and motorsport.

From his early days working at Arthur Lavington’s Velo shop to pounding the long-distance trials and competing on race circuits across Britain, Bill’s story captures the true spirit of classic motorcycling. Though he admits he was better off-road than on tarmac, he still savours the memory of his hard-won race victory at Cadwell Park in 1972.

After stints working in motorcycle shops, as a despatch rider in London, and as an advertising executive for Motorcycle Sport magazine, Bill made his first visit to the Isle of Man in 1975 to watch the TT — and never left. Since then, he has become one of the most respected chroniclers of the island’s racing history, amassing a photographic archive of over 250,000 images covering the TT, Manx Grand Prix, Southern 100, and more.

Covering three decades of classic motorcycle racing and iconic marques such as Velocette, Norton, Ducati, Morini, and Triumph, this book combines personal memories with original TT photographs to create a fascinating window into the golden years of motorcycle sport.

Highlights: A personal account of life at the centre of classic motorcycle racing Insight into the golden age of the Isle of Man TT and Manx Grand Prix Features over 200 original photographs from the TT archives Captures a lifetime of passion, competition, and friendships in motorcycling An entertaining autobiography from a true enthusiast, competitor, and historian

Book Details

• Format: Paperback
• Dimensions: 14.8 × 21 cm
• Pages: 160
• Pictures: 202
• Publisher: Veloce Publishing (SKU: V5581)