David Jefferies: The Official Biography

by Stuart Barker

Inscribed on the gravestone of David Jefferies is: 'Those who risk nothing do nothing, achieve nothing, become nothing'. As the undisputed master of the most dangerous race track in the world, the Isle of Man TT course, the affable Yorkshireman risked so much and achieved such legendary status before losing his life in practice for the 2003 TT. John McGuinness rated him as 'probably the most naturally talented rider in the British paddock'. This is his story.

312 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2009

About the author

Stuart Barker was born in Galloway, Scotland and graduated from Strathclyde University in 1996. A lifelong motor racing fan, he worked at Motor Cycle News, first as a news reporter then as a feature writer and road tester. After four years, he became a freelance writer and has been published in many magazines including FHM, Superbike, Two Wheels Only and Biker. He has co-written books with Niall Mackenzie and Steve Hislop and wrote a bestselling biography of the late Barry Sheene.

Reviews

[Adam Vibert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this one. I particularly liked Stuart Barker's writing style and the fact he was able to gather little known (or never heard before) stories from the Jefferies family.

DJ sadly passed away before I really started following bike racing so I never watched his races at the time, but I am of course aware of his exploits at the TT and knew he started on short circuits. I was however unaware of how much short circuit racing he did and how good he was on those tracks, and the challenges he faced getting rides, despite an obvious talent and many successes. All this is covered in detail in the book.

Would definitely recommend it if you can get hold of a copy, it seems to be becoming a rare book these days.