AA-2026-615ADA
On the image
A young man in the 1970s proudly displays his Suzuki motorcycle, the ultimate expression of personal independence for a generation that believed mechanical two-wheeled contraptions could solve many of life's more mundane transportation problems. His layered shirt and denim signal a casual cool, a uniform for the aspiring individualist ready for the open road.
He sits casually, perhaps too casually, next to a machine that represents both freedom and a significant monthly payment. The bright blue helmet perched carefully on the back, ready for action, suggests adventures are imminent, or at least highly probable, given the right set of circumstances and available daylight.
The entire scene is framed by a suburban driveway, suggesting these grand adventures might frequently begin and end not far from home, after running errands. It was a time when owning a machine like this projected a certain lifestyle, even if that lifestyle mostly involved getting to work or the grocery store with enhanced flair.
The historian's note
This image captures a typical suburban scene from the 1970s, showcasing personal transportation trends of the era. The man poses with a Suzuki motorcycle, a popular choice for riders seeking economical and stylish personal mobility during a decade marked by evolving vehicle design and fuel concerns.
In the background, a light green Mercury Comet (or Ford Maverick) coupe, identifiable by its distinctive body lines, and a blue Chevrolet Nova sedan are parked. These vehicles represent common American cars of the 1970s, reflecting the automotive landscape before significant changes brought by later safety and emissions regulations.
The setting, with bare deciduous trees and a residential driveway, provides context for everyday life in a North American suburb during this period. The overall composition highlights the individual's connection to personal vehicles as symbols of freedom and identity.
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Visually related — by likeness
Young Man with Suzuki Motorcycle, Suburban Driveway, 1970s. 1970–1979. Archive & Atlas, Historical Image Library, AA-2026-615ADA. https://thearchive.archiveandatlas.com/library/young-man-with-suzuki-motorcycle-suburban-driveway-1970s.
@misc{aaAA2026615ADA,
title = {Young Man with Suzuki Motorcycle, Suburban Driveway, 1970s},
year = {1970–1979},
howpublished = {Archive \& Atlas, Historical Image Library},
note = {Accession AA-2026-615ADA},
url = {https://thearchive.archiveandatlas.com/library/young-man-with-suzuki-motorcycle-suburban-driveway-1970s}
}TY - ART TI - Young Man with Suzuki Motorcycle, Suburban Driveway, 1970s PY - 1970–1979 PB - Archive & Atlas, Historical Image Library AN - AA-2026-615ADA UR - https://thearchive.archiveandatlas.com/library/young-man-with-suzuki-motorcycle-suburban-driveway-1970s ER -
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