Don’t let the title turn you off. the information in Evans Brasfield’s book, 101 Sportbike Performance Projects, can be used on a wide variety of motorcycles. He just happens to like sportbikes. With 256 pages of helpful tips and sharp color pictures, you’re sure to find some projects you can do on your own bike.

Topics covered include maintenance, brakes, wheels and tires, suspension, chassis, carbs/EFI/exhaust/ignition, and crash protection. And since 101 project ideas are quite a bunch of things to do to one bike, the author can’t dwell too long on any particular subject. Most projects occupy only one page, while the most in-depth discussion is just three or four pages long.

Each project description starts with a key that shows the amount of time required, tools and parts needed, the expected skill level of the mechanic, the approximate cost of the mod, some handy tips, and an overview of the kind of performance gains you can expect. Then, after giving some background information, Brasfield explains how to do the work, with excellent photos showing some of the steps. I can’t say enough about the quality of the photos; it’s like you’re standing right there, looking over the mechanic’s shoulder.

Those familiar with Brasfield’s writing style know he can be light and funny, but the tech info he offers is all business. This book is a good starting point for identifying the kinds of projects you’d like to tackle and will give you an idea of the work involved. For more detailed instruction, you’ll need to consult the shop manual for your particular bike. There’s also a web site, appropriately called www.101sportbikeprojects.com, where you can read about what’s in the book and even check out a few sample projects for free.

These are projects and repairs that every motorcyclist can benefit from knowing about, even if you’re not on the hottest sportbike du jour. And this book will help you keep up with the latest trends on the street. RB

101 Sportbike Performance Projects $29.95
By Evans Brasfield, 256 pp.
Motorbooks International
800/826-6600