20th Century Japan Bike of the Year: Tracing an Era Through Its Most Popular Models

Just looking at the names of touring models that were popular back then, you can feel how the way people enjoyed traveling changed era by era.

How exactly does the evolution of the license system affect which bikes get popular?

Looking at the JBOTY from a year before I was born is just plain fun - you get a sense of the era's background too.

They cut it off at the year 2000, but I wonder why they didn't include the 21st century this time - is there a sequel coming?

Tying the story to the evolution of the license system and regulations gives it documentary value beyond just a record of a popularity poll.

A feature looking back at history starting from 1977 - this is irresistible reading for old-school riders.