Recently-retired, four-time Superbike world champion Carl Fogarty has always been know to speak his mind and get under other racer's skins. He continues that tradition in his new book simply titled "Foggy."

"Foggy is a typically frank account of his transformation from a shy and awkward teenager to self-assured celebrity and Superbike legend. Track rivals are not spared and the forthright Fogarty treatment in startling revelations about the world of racing," claims the book jacket.

The book begins and ends with Foggy's last Superbike race in Australia, where he crashed, forcing his eventual retirement later in the year. From there the outspoken Blackburn native takes us through his childhood, racing career and family life. The book describes detailed accounts of almost every major race that he's ever taken part of - sometimes even detailed descriptions of why he chose what tire and how the bike was setup. While extremely interesting, the best parts of the book are his racing insights and behind-the-scenes antics.

Foggy openly admits he was obsessed with winning and was known to bash his opponents in the press. He explains how he used the media to his advantage, demoralizing other riders and getting them off their game. He also admits that while he was friendly with other racers off the track (Jamie Whitham, Neil Hodgson and even Colin Edwards), when it came to race day, all bets were off. He explains his dislike for certain riders and tracks. (like Daytona).

By far the most entertaining parts of the book are the stories about the off-season and pre and post-race tomfoolery. No one's shame is spared (not even his own) as he talks openly about his sexual conquest and failures throughout his life. Antics at hotels, house parties and post race "gatherings" keep the story flowing and add a lot of humor. He's even critical of Castrol Honda manager Neil Tuxworth.

There are also two, full-color sections that have pictures from every facet of Fogarty's life and career. They include pictures from his F1 TT, Isle of Man days, wedding, family portraits and various race and team shots.

While the book, as a whole, is highly entertaining and recommended if you're a World Superbike fan, there are a few things that stand out. The book was obviously written for the non-biking masses in the UK, as some simple racing terms such as highside and lowside are painstakingly defined.

These are no doubt the additions of co-author Neil Bramwell. While these explanations are necessary for the masses, they just interfere with Foggy's up-front and uncompromising style. The book was a number-one best seller twice in the UK (when it first came out and after he announced his retirement), as Foggy is one of Britains most popular sports figures.

The last problem about the book is the extreme difficulty getting it in the United States. It's available on Amazon.com, but we waited about three months for our copy and the next day it was on backorder. The Amazon price was 17 British pounds ($29.99)

Mario Frassetto lives in Arizona and once worked at American Roadracing (when it was cool).
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Linkage:

Foggy Fans: get yer cool foggy over time desktop images here

Foggy read a magazine and glared at his wife while Dean interviewed him last Summer in Italy

Foggy won't retire, wrote Dean after the dinner in Germany (Doh!)