Few outside Japan are aware of the scale or duration of Japan"s motorcycle industry, which comprised roughly 200 manufacturers in 1955. For decades, a crown jewel of Japan"s postwar manufacturing industry, motorcycles remain one of Japan"s top exports. "Japan"s Motorcycle Wars" examines the historical development and societal impact of Japan"s motorcycle industry throughout most of the twentieth century.Through translations of interview transcripts, industry publications, and company histories, Jeffrey W. Alexander examines the motorcycle"s introduction to Japan in the early 1900s, the influence of motor sports on vehicle sales, the impact of wartime production, and the role of the motorcycle in policing Japanese cities. Postwar developments include the industry"s explosive growth in the early 1950s, the role of private endurance races in the 1960s, and the role of driver education and safety campaigns in Japan since 1970."Japan"s Motorcycle Wars" illustrates the key role played by the motorcycle industry in Japan"s emergence as a preeminent export manufacturer. It will appeal to students and scholars of Japanese history, business, and culture as well as to motorcycle enthusiasts.