The Protracted 1973 Triumph
By Bandit |
I recently discovered a Triumph chopper builder in our LA Harbor hood, so we rolled over to Earl's digs at 786 Miraflores in San Pedro. Here's the rest of Earl's contact info:
Cycle Art by Earl
(310) 218-2979
Earlsbikes.net
Earl is a classic craftsman who almost exclusively builds custom rigid-framed Triumphs.
“I trade stock shit for Custom parts all the time,” Earl told me.
He doesn't restore bikes, and when I visited his shop, there were at least ten rigid bobbed triumph 650 vintage projects in the works.
While visiting, a local kid rode up on another classic Triumph custom and it caught my eye like a jewel glistening in a asphalt parking lot. The good Doctor Hamster and I wandered over to take a look, and with each viewing angle, we spotted a new detail. This kid had classic talent written all over him, so I initiated a feature with the esteemed Peter Linney handling the photography. I knew Peter would also enjoy the craftsmanship.
As it turned out, this kid, Jordan Nuttman, is a master machinist and toolmaker. He's 33 and this was his first Triumph effort, inspired by Earl, but it wasn’t his first motorcycle project. Born in Kansas, he and his brother, were uprooted a month later and they spent their first four years in Chicago, followed by another 4-5 years south of the Twin Cities in Minnesota.
His dad rode as a young man and grew up in Southern California, but lost two friends to the historic Ascot Raceway. At age nine, his folks moved back to Socal in Rancho Palos Verdes. Jordon started a paper-route and bought his first motorcycle, a trashed Z-50 trail bike.
“The wiring was fried,” Jordon said.
Delivering newspapers on steep hilly streets, he discovered another deal on a Yamaha Chappy, then an XR75 Honda, and started riding in the dirt behind his folks’ house with his brother. They were just 18 months apart and partners in every two-wheeled adventure.
“We rode too hard and often,” Jordan said. “The cops came down on us.”
He moved onto a RM 80 Suzuki, then an XL 150 dual-sport Honda, while his brother stepped into another riding ring with a Yamaha TI, a bigger bike with a 400 cc engine.
“It was an endura-styled bike and so high, I couldn't reach the pavement,” Jordan said.
With each bike, he became savvier with internal combustion, suspension, and wiring. Then he graduated from high school and his life went to shit in the back of a Toyota camper shell, partying and following the Grateful Dead from concert to concert. I'm sure a couple of girls were involved in the process.
“That era was just a blurr,” Jordan muttered and scooped up a fish taco. He looked so serious most of the time, but once in awhile, he broke out a brilliant smile and started to laugh. Maybe the Dead acid returned.
Somewhere between the band breaking up and the death of Jerry Garcia, Jordan came back to earth, slapped himself in the face with a cold, wet shop towel and challenged himself.
“I bought a Russian BMW, Ukranian Dnepr, piece of shit,” Jordan told me and scrambled for another Miller. “If I could rebuild it, I could rebuild anything.”
He restored every aspect while making trips to Century Motorcycles in San Pedro, California. The mad redhead owner, Cindy Ruthaford, sent him to Earl's when he stepped up to the Triumph.
“I bought this running basket case on E-bay,” Jordan said. “The frame was a mess and I replaced it with this BCS frame.”
He bought the tank from Earl and went to work using as many '73 Triumph parts as possible. The wheels are stock, and so is the front end. Other than the aftermarket frame, all other components were hand built by Jordan.
“I thought it might be a rare Duplex Triumph frame,” Earl said of Jordan's classic frame lines.
The Garage Company crew rebuilt the engine and Jordan tucked all the electrics under the tank in the tunnel, made all the classic stainless bracketry, oil tank, and his wild shift linkage.
“Since I was nine, the brake was always on the right, so I shifted the brake to the other side,” Jordan said, “and built a toe/hand shifter.”
This is just the first of more refined motorcycle classics I expect to witness from Jordan Nuttman. He has the touch, eye, and the talents to build anything.
Bikernet.com Extreme Tech Chart
Regular Stuff
Owner: Jordan Nuttman
Bike Name: Angus
City/State: San Pedro, Ca
Builder: Jordan Nuttman
City/state: San Pedro, Ca
Company Info: Mold Services Co.
Address: 1265 w. 130th. St. Gardena, Ca 90247
Phone: 310 769 4740
Web site:
E-mail: Moldservicesx@aol.com
Fabrication: Owner
Manufacturing: Owner
Welding: Owner
Machining: Owner
Engine
Year: ‘73
Make: Triumph
Model: T140v
Displacement: 750
Builder or Rebuilder: Garage Company
Cases: stock
Case finish: cast and polished
Barrels: stock
Bore: .060 over
Pistons: .060 JRC
Barrel finish: black paint
Lower end: stock
Stroke: stock
Rods: stock
Heads: stock
Head finish: cast
Valves and springs: stock
Pushrods: stock
Cams: stock
Lifters: stock
Carburetion: Twin Amal 930
Air cleaner: short v-stack
Exhaust: TT strait pipes
Mufflers:
Other:
Transmission
Year: ‘73
Make: Triumph
Gear configuration: stock 5 speed
Final drive: Chain
Primary: stock chain
Clutch: stock
Frame
Year: 2006
Make: British Cycle Supply
Style or Model: 544 series
Stretch: 4 over
Rake: stock
Modifications:
Front End
Make: Triumph
Model: T140v disc
Year: ‘73
Length: stock
Mods: steering stops/headlight mount
Sheet metal
Tanks: stock oil in frame ’73 Triumph
Fenders: trailer
Panels:
Oil tank: Owner built .075 stainless
Other: owner machined aluminum finned type oil cooler
Paint
Sheet metal: Jim’s Cycle Painting
Molding: Jim’s
Base coat: Single stage black
Graphics:
Type:
Frame: Paint
Molding: Owner
Base coat: Single stage black
Type:
Graphics or art:
Special effects:
Pinstriping:
Wheels
Front Black powder coated stock rims Buchanan’s stainless spokes black painted stock disc hub
Make: Triumph
Size: 19 in.
Brake calipers: Triumph/Lockheed
Brake rotor(s): Triumph/Lockheed owner drilled disc
Tire: Avon Speedmaster
Rear Black powder coated stock rims Buchanan’s stainless spokes black painted stock conical drum hub
Make: Triumph
Size: 18 in.
Brake calipers:
Brake rotor:
Pulley:
Tire: Bridgestone Battleaxe
Controls
Foot controls: Owner modified stock
Finish: Black powder coat
Master cylinder: Stock Triumph/Lockheed
Brake lines: Stainless braid/Hard tubing
Handlebar controls: Stock
Finish:
Clutch Cable:
Brake Lines
Shifting: Right hand foot/hand
Kickstand: Owner modified stock
Electrical
Ignition: Boyer
Ignition switch: HD three position
Coils: stock
Regulator: Boyer
Charging: stock stator
Wiring: Owner
Harness:
Headlight: Owner modified aftermarket
Taillight: Owner machined body , ’39 Chevy repro glass lens
Accessory lights:
Electrical accessories:
Switches:
Battery: Yuasa
What's Left
Seat: Solo
Mirror(s): unknown make
Gas caps: Stock Triumph
Handlebars: Daytona style black powder coated
Grips: Amal repros
Pegs: Owner modified Triumph
Oil filter: Triumph Trident style JRC
Oil cooler: Owner machined aluminum finned type
Oil lines: Stainless tube/cloth covered rubber
Fuel filter: disposable in line
Fuel Lines: cloth covered rubber
Throttle: stock twin pull
Throttle cables: stock
Fasteners: mostly stainless
Specialty items:Owner fabricated items: Brake crossover and pedal , brake linkage rods and arms, taillight body, taillight/license mount, brake switch mounts, rear fender stay and mounts, steering head dust cups, headlight mount, steering stops, coil mounts, rocker oil feed pike nuts, top end engine mount(torque stay), rear engine mounts, foot peg mounts, oil pressure gauge mount, tool bag support mount, various special stainless fasteners/hardware, oil tank and mounts, oil cooler and mounts, fuel tank mounts, ignition switch plate and mount, chain tensioners and cups, exhaust hangers and straps, seat hinge and mount , seat spring mounts, battery box, kicker pedal , shifter, ETC.
Comments: I have only listed above items (in detail) to let the general public know how much fuckin work goes into building a custom bike, not including paint, powder, chrome, and engine work. So please don’t ask when or how much. It’s 10-15 hours a day 6 days a week until it’s done. I know all of you over worked under paid builders can appreciate this. Thanks to everyone who showed an interest in this bike. By the way Angus (bikes name) was my dog and best friend who I dedicated this bike to, R.I.P. Angus.
Credits:Jim’s Cycle Paint, Earl (Earlsbikes.net), Garage Company, JRC engineering, British Cycle Supply, MC Tire works, My Father and Grandfather William G. Nuttman Jr. and Sr., and Angus the dog.
Knockout Motorcycle Board Tracker
By Bandit |
This is one of the best board track configurations I've seen to date. In some respects the colors are '90s Cadillac, yet it's true to board trackers from the '20s without fenders and pipes so short they'd fry the pavement. “The color came from a '30s hot rod,” Ralph Randolph said. “It's pure art deco earth tones, sprayed with modern metallics.” That's about as far as the true aspect applies to the board track racers of the original era. I've known Ralph Randolph for a few years. I've watched his company struggle, yet the man never stopped creating killer customs. “I was building three customs for Sturgis that year,” he said. “We faced tremendous time constraints.”
As many of you know, he's got a day job as an airline captain, but he's been a biker since he was a kid and rolled through every aspect of being a biker from joining a club to riding across country and building several bike configurations from the ground up. He ran strip clubs, owns a bail bonds joint, threatens to build a restaurant/nightclub and recently produced a television show. He's definitely an A-type personality. He's fought the ups and downs of our industry, grappled with the title of his company and a deal with a major toy manufacturer. He's enjoyed major opportunities and several setbacks, but he keeps moving ahead, because he loves building bikes, creating parts and facing challenges.
His demeanor is non-stop but his artistic side is all traditional rider style, except for this bike. His customs are mostly hot rod, bobber, classic, easy to ride bar-hopping scooters. This bike falls outside the everyday rider but has some historic significance.
“I sat across from Rick Krost, the Board Track Chassis designer, in Laughlin in 2004,” Ralph said. “I couldn't leave without buying that frame.”
He just recently completed a daily rider around a stock Softail, but also with historic overtones for the United States Commemorative Air Force as a fund raising effort. A new television show revolves around this build and the bike will be on tour at air shows this season to raise funds. We will bring you reports on the show as the producers find a home. But this bike also demonstrates that Ralph and his team don't just build parts and Knockout Motorcycles. Their shop is full service and they work on anything from Softails to Sportsters.
But let's jump back to this Board Tracker, which I would love to own. It's a classic, with a chassis designed and built by Rick Krost of U.S. Choppers. Rick's board track frames are now built by Paughco and a new version of a traditional spindly framed scooter from the '20s was just released in Cincy at the V-Twin show this year. I've witnessed a few board track builds, and although they're not considered everyday riders, they contain an exciting element of historic racing like nothing on this planet.
It may seem crazy to build a bike you can't hardly ride, has no fenders and a riding position reminiscent of the board track racers of the teens and '20s. They didn't have brakes and some didn't have exhaust pipes at all. They thundered around wooden tracks swelling with dagger-like splinters, spewing flames out exhaust ports and oil, through constant loss systems, lubricating the already slippery tracks. Through this brief era of motorcycling history riders aboard bicycle-like structured frames, peeled out of control into crowds killing several on-lookers, who were leaning on wooden fences. They were 100 mph bombs flying around the tracks on thin frames with narrow wheels, piano wire spokes and thin rubber tires.
Ah, but what the hell. Life is short, and now these original racers are worth over $250,000 for the right vintage and most over $100,000, even if it never saw a track. Fred Lange specializes in pre-1915 pieced together restorations, often starting with only an engine (805) 937-4972, and Don Whalen only deals in the originals, often with documentation, trophies and proof of racing history (626) 358-9696. But Rick and Ralph offer a fun way to capture a chunk of our history, and still ride it, although maybe not very far.
Ralph is the driving force behind all of his business entities, plus he's the artist, the fabricator and illustrator. He hand built the aluminum tanks, the two-piece bars, the mid controls and the seat suspension system.
“The bars are held in place with dowel pins under the trees and bolts from the top,” Ralph said. “They won't turn. I attempted to make this bike as minimal as possible and sometimes that's the toughest aspect to any build.”
At his back is Kenny Lucas, his motorman, wiring expert and assembler. “He can build an engine is two hours,” Ralph said. “It would take me all day. He understands that each motorcycle has a soul. That's why we ran clear oil lines to enhance the living aspect of this racer's veins.”
Ralph is currently working with his producers to splash his Commemorative Air Force show series on cable television while finishing a bike for Daytona Rat's Hole Show. “It's another board track racer with all modern components,” Ralph said. “It will have a solid billet front end, billet controls, pegs and the wheels are wild and matching with a 20/280 rear and a 23/3.5 front. I'm calling it the Rat Rocket.”
Next he will start designing a build for another Television effort, the Chopper Challenge, with nine other builders around the country, including Scott Long. “They begin the shooting at Knockout Motorcycles during Arizona Bike Week.”
There you have it, one non-stop individual, who is a rider and builds bikes and parts to be used and abused. We will bring you additional reports on his new projects and new products as they come together.
OWNER:FOR SALE …it could be yours!!!
YEAR:2006 ROCKEM & SOCKEM
MODEL:ROCKEM ROCKET
FABRICATION:RALPH RANDOLPH & KEN LUCAS
ASSEMBLY:RALPH RANDOLPH & KEN LUCAS
PAINT:AJ’S CUSTOMS
COLOR:IVORY PEARL w/ TURNED SILVER LEAF
ENGINE BUILDER:RALPH RANDOLPH DESIGNS – KEN LUCAS
ENGINE SPECS:
YEAR / MODEL:2006 EVOLUTION
DISPLACEMENT:96”
IGNITION:MORRIS MAGNETO
CASES:S&S – POLISHED
HEADS:S&S – POWDERCOATED
CAM:S&S – 561
CYLINDERS:S&S – POWDERCOATED
PISTONS:KEITH BLACK (10.5:1)
CARB:S&S – SUPER “E”
AIR CLEANER:VELOCITY STACK
EXHAUST:RALPH RANDOLPH DESIGNS – SIGNATURE SERIES
TRANSMISSION:
MODEL:REVTECH 4 SPEED w/ KICKER
KICK PEDAL:RALPH RANDOLPH DESIGNS – SIGNATURE SERIES
PRIMARY:1.5” OPEN BELT
FORKS:
TYPE: GIRDER, INDIAN STYLE
MAKE: KIWI
FRAME:
YEAR / MODEL:2006 U.S CHOPPERS
RAKE:30 DEGREES
BACKBONE:0” STRETCH
DOWNTUBE:0” STRETCH
MID CONTROLS:RALPH RANDOLPH DESIGNS – SIGNATURE SERIES
POWDERCOAT:VALLEY INDUSTRIAL PAINTING
BODY WORK:
TANK (OIL/GAS):RALPH RANDOLPH DESIGNS (SPLIT STYLE)
REAR FENDER:NONE
FRONT FENDER:NONE
OTHER STUFF:
SEAT PAN:RALPH RANDOLPH DESIGNS – SIGNATURE SERIES
HAND CONTROLS:OLD SCHOOL
MIRRORS:NONE
HANDLEBARS:RALPH RANDOLPH DESIGNS – SIGNATURE SERIES
HEADLIGHT:NONE
TAIL LIGHT:NONE
SEAT COVER:MESA CHOPPERS & RODS
WHEELS, BRAKES, and TYRES:
WHEELS: EXTREME MACHINE – 23” FRONT & REAR
TYRES: AVON VENOM 130/60R23 – DOT APPROVED
BRAKE: EXILE CYCLES (SPROCKET / ROTOR) – REAR ONLY
SPECIAL THANKS:
EXTREME MACHINE WHEELS – ROBERT LEE
AVON TYRES – SUKOSHI & JOHN
U.S. CHOPPERS – RICK KROST
HEAD WATERJET – CUSTOM PARTS / JOHN HARVEY
GEC ENGINEERING – MACHINING WORK / CHRIS NICOLLS
PRO POLISHING – SAM BARRON
NOTE:
THIS BIKE PLACED 26th OUT OF 150+ BIKES ENTERED AT THE AMD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS OF BIKE BUILDING (STURGIS 2006 – OPEN CLASS)
Classic 1961 Pan Custom
By Bandit |
The feature bike coach:Hey, this feature with Panhead Richie is an opportunity to let anyone know what we need to put a quality feature together on Bikernet. I like build shots, but first and foremost we need top quality shots of the completed bike, from both sides, and ¾ overall shots from both sides front and rear. Plus we need sharp, uncluttered shots of details, like the engine, trans, front end, wheels, seat, bars, controls and sheet metal. Then get your girl involved and have some fun. A riding shot is always a plus. That's all, enjoy the show.–Wrench
I was born in Freeport, Long Island, New York and at the age of 12 saw my first motorcycle club ride past my folks station wagon, and that's all it took, I was hooked! Shortly after, I started building bicycles with engines in them. One after another, I built them bigger, better, and faster.
By the time I was 20; I saved enough money to by my first motorcycle, a 1961 Harley-Davidson Panhead. I paid $2000.00 for it. Over the year's I rebuilt the engine, transmission, rewired, and refined every part on that bike. The only things I did not handle included paint and chrome. I sent those out to be professionally finished.
I moved to Florida in 1999 (too cold in N.Y.) and decided to refine it into show bike level condition. The awards and trophies I've won over the years make the experience and building time all worthwhile. The process became a part of my life and me. I'm retired now and the enjoyment I get from people admiring the workmanship and detail in this machine is just amazing.
Now a bit about this bike: I pumped up the engine to a 82-inch stroker (3.5''x4.25'') with Truit&Osbourn flywheel's, S&S heavy-duty rods and Keith Black 9.5to1 Pistons. Exhausts are 1.75-inch Gooseneck Drag Pipes (no baffles). Sure, I'm breaking the law. I installed an Andrews B cam, with chrome-moly pushrods by S&S and solid lifters.
The panheads are ported and polished by myself. The original components were replaced with Black Diamond valves, with Sifton springs and retainers. The polished carb is an S&S Super B(early 1970s). The oil pump was also polished and HV by S&S. The oil return runs through an '05 Buell oil cooler mounted on the left front down tube.
The primary side is driven by a vintage Phase 3 -2.5-inch (early 1970s square tooth belt, known as a Gilmore Belt) belt drive with aluminum engine pulley, aluminum basket, and a stock fiber H-D clutch (very reliable for the last 38 years).
The transmission (original H-D case) is a 4-speed, completely chromed exterior with Andrew's 1st (2.60) 2nd, and 3rd gears. All clearances and endplays were set-up in house by me. The front end is a 1943 H-D springer, modified to 6-inches over stock and completely chrome. I added 20-degree drag bars and 6-inch risers.
The front wheel is a 19×3-inch SuperSpoke rim (1978) mounted with an Avon Speedmaster ribbed front tire (no front brake, don't need it). The rear wheel is a 16×4-inch by Chica, with a Dunlop 130 tire. Performance Machine 4-piston rear caliper and a mirror polished 12-inch stainless steel rotor bring it all to a stop.
The rear fender (7-inch) is a custom design I fabricated myself. Fuel tank (1961 original) was split and holds 5 gallons. On top of it is a 1943 Catseye dash (orig.) with working speedo and trip gauge.
The frame took the longest to do (molding and fabrication), but in the end, it was all worth it. It came out beautiful. The frame and sheet metal tins were painted by H.G.H. Custom Cycle (my son Harley) in Freeport, N.Y. He did a fantastic job. Todd owner of Classic Chrome, in Florida, plated the chrome pieces. My parts and accessories all came from Owners Gerard & Tommy of Rolling Thunder Cycles, Hempstead N.Y.
This is not just a show bike. I ride it 10K a year, and there is nothing more I'd rather do than ride and show my bike. I'd like to thank everyone for the time and help they have given.
–PanHead Richie
TT Cycles Classic Trump Chop
By Bandit |
When you think of a custom Bobber, you usually think Harley. I used to also but there has been a growing demand over the past few years for shops that build and customize Harley’s British cousin, the Triumph. Triumphs have been in the limelight for decades. Ever since Marlon Brando rode in on one as Johnny, the president of the Black Rebels M.C. back in 1953’s “The Wild One,” it officially became cool to chop or bob the venerable Trump.
Originally, ALL the bikes in the film were to be Harleys but Brando shut that idea down in flames when he insisted that he would only ride his personal Pre-Unit in the film, so if you ever noticed, Brando’s crew were riding Brits while Lee Marvin’s gang were astride Harleys.
Dennis Harrold and Steve Blaufeder are a couple of working musicians who share a love of Britain’s most popular export since the Beatles. Eleven years ago, the duo decided to open a shop in New Jersey that specializes in modifying and building custom choppers and bobbers based on the Triumph as well as restoring vintage models.
They moved to their new location at 10 Summit Ave., Berkeley Heights, NJ, three years ago. Steve is a certified bike mechanic having worked in Harley as well as Triumph dealerships for years and has built or rebuilt over 50 motors and transmissions in just the three years at their new shop location, and Dennis has modified bikes since he was 17. Most of the work is handled in house. Dennis does most of the modifications and designs their line of custom parts including a truly affordable set of forward controls.
Dennis wanted to build a personal bike, so he chose a 1970 frame and went to work building a 6-inch stretched rear hardtail section while Steve did a complete overhaul on the 1971 TR6 650cc motor. Steve gave it a bit more “punch” with a Boyer Brandsen, MK III ignition and 10-over Hepolite pistons and a Mikuni VM30 carb.
While Steve was tweaking the motor, Dennis was busy making the TT Cycles custom 16-inch rear wheel, TT Cycles custom exhaust and forward controls. The classic 1950s flame paint job (DuPont Chroma base coat/clear coat) paint job was laid-out in house and the inimitable G.W. Ross did a hell-of-a job on the pinstriping. Dennis went with some cool Vintage bullet running lights mounted under solo seat and custom amber turn signals. A 1969/1970 twin leading shoe stock front end with 10-inch mini-ape handlebars and Barnett levers and throttle lead the bike down the road. The bike uses a vintage Horseshoe oil tank w/battery box as well as a Vintage BAR Enterprises solo seat and “P” pad and sports a Kidney tool box (chrome). The rear end shows off a 6-inch flat chrome rear fender mounted with a Cat’s eye taillight.
These guys are truly creative in their approach to bike building. While most shops don’t have the special tools and knowledge needed for Brit bikes, TT Cycles boasts tools, both factory and those fabricated right in their own shop, to handle any repair or modification any customer can dream up (BTW, they also work on non-Brit models as well).
I have recently had the delightful experience of building a custom Brit Bobber and was dismayed to find most of the Brit shops lacked parts or advice. For the most part, they were factory purists and shined me on when they found out that I was creating a custom build and not a faithful restoration. That's definitely not the case with Dennis and Steve. Both were very helpful and the advice they gave me was invaluable to a Brit Novice.
If you’re looking for a custom build, some cool parts or just need to get a good shop to keep your old Trump in Bristol Fashion, check out: and tell ‘em TBear sent ya. –TB General Owner: TT Cycles / Dennis Harrold Engine Year: 1971 Transmission Year: 1970 Frame Year: 1970 Forks Type: Stock Wheels,Tires,Brakes Front Wheel: Triumph Rear Wheel: TT Cycles custom Painting Painter: TT Cycles Accessories Bars: 10” apes
TT Cycles
10 Summit Ave.
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
(908) 464-2288
http://www.ttcycles.net/
sales@ttcycles.net 
City/State: Berkeley Heights, NJ
Fab. By: TT Cycles
Year: 1970 Triumph
Model: T120R
Value: $11,000.00
Time: 2 Months
Model: TR6
Builder: TT Cycles
Ignition: Boyer Brandsen MK III
Displacement: 650cc
Pistons: Hepolite
Heads: Stock
Carb: Mikuni VM30
Cam: Stock
Air Cleaner: Stock
Exhaust: TT Cycles custom
Primary: Stock
Make: Triumph
Shifting: 4-speed
Make: Triumph / TT Cycles
Rake: Stock
Stretch: Stock
Builder: Triumph
Extention Stock
Triple Trees: Triumph 
Size: 3.25 X 19
Front Tire: Shinko
Front Brake: Triumph
Size: 5.10 X 16
Rear Tire: Shinko
Rear Brake: Triumph
Color: Black w/ flames
Type: DuPont Chroma urethane
Graphics: TT Cycles / G.W. Ross
Molding: TT Cycles
Chroming: Artistic Chrome 
Risers: 3”
Hand Controls: Barnett
Fuel Tanks: Triumph
Front Fender: None
Rear Fender: 6” chrome flat
Seat: BAR Enterprises
Foot Controls: TT Cycles custom forward controls
Mirrors: Mid West
Oil Tank: Custom
Headlight: Triumph
Taillight: Mid West
Speedo: None 
Sturgis 2009 Flyer
By Bandit |
Super hot NorCal custom bike builder Bryan Shimke — owner and operator of TPJ Customs in Lodi, California, is in-route to Sturgis, SD to deliver his latest innovative two-wheel creation.
Last year in Sturgis at the prestigious AMD bike show Byran opened a lot of eyes by placing 10th with his badass entry. Just as importantly, Byran's build blew the mind of Gordy Erickson who promptly commissioned a new bike from the young California builder.
“When it's done,” Gordy said, “how about flogging it over the roads from the West Coast to the Sturgis Rally and Races?”
“Piece of cake,” was Bryan's response.
Over six months this year, the TPJ Customs shop hummed with activity. Because, although Bryan is forgoing this year's AMD show, he is also designing and building another bike to be entered this fall in the Artistry in Iron competition during Las Vegas Bike Fest.
“That build,” he said, “is coming along nicely, but will most likely be finished at the last minute.”
Shimke came up doin' it in the dirt as a motocross rider and his bike builds reflect that heritage. They're light weight with plenty of power. The lines are clean and spare but, most of all, his bikes are built to be ridden. For the chopper Byran is riding to Sturgis right now, that meant wedding an H-D EVO engine to a much-altered West Coast Choppers frame. Out back is a swingarm mated to two dirt-bike type shocks.
While there are plenty of big name featured parts — among them, a Revtech six-speed transmission, BDL clutch, Pro-one triple trees and Performance Machine calipers — many of the parts are the creation of TPJ Customs. This includes the air cleaner, exhaust, seat pan, taillight, gas tank, rear fender, oil tank, mid- and hand controls, and many other items. Kirk Taylor of Custom Design Studios laid down the very subtle charcoal paint.
Bryan hit the road to Sturgis with his friends Satya and Alan of Kraus Motor Co, another notable NorCal bike shop with an entry in this year's AMD. Once in South Dakota, the group plans to catch up with old friends and, Bryan says,”ride a bunch.”
It's Tuesday morning, August 4, 2009 and a call just came into the Bikernet communications center: Bryan's pal Satya broke down last week, but they are now one the road once more. We'll bring you the saga in the next couple of weeks.–Wrench
Wild Things from the Bozzie Racing Team
By Bandit |
Dave Bozzie is a second generation motor builder who makes quite a stir in the motorcycle world. From fast daily riders to unique land speed record bikes, Bozzie Performance Customs puts radical, performance and classic machines.
The double-Evo you see here is called “Wild Thing”. Wild thing was built in 2006 as a result of a couple of spare EVO motors lying around. The bike’s style pays homage to Dave’s father’s dual Knucklehead drag bike, “The Thing” which was built in 1955 and is still going today. However, Dave needed a reliable racing bike for the land speed record attempts—one that had plenty of power. Two motors, in this case, was the call.
The Wild Thing is currently one of the stars of Dave Bozzie’s racing team, Big Inch Racing, and frequents the El Mirage dry lake beds. Recently, Big Inch Racing ran this dresser at speeds around 145 MPH at the track, but was having shifting issues and Dave was not able to bring a record home.
His next stop is at Bonneville to run down the salt. Dave and Wild Thing will run in several different classes and with any luck and some decent racing conditions, Dave and the Big Inch Racing team will bring home good news in the illustrious form of a World record.
Sitting on Wild Thing lookin’ oh so sweet is LowLa. LowLa is the alter ego of Suhki, one of the AFT Customs Girls models. Suhki and the Bozzie family have become good friends and together they put out these HOT photos. Look for Bozzie Custom Performance at local shows and race tracks around the Sacramento area of California. Come by the booth and have this lil’ sweetheart sign a poster for you.
If you want to contact Dave Bozzie or Suhki for moto-model work, go to www.bozziecustoms.com
Bikernet.com Extreme Wild Thing Tech Chart
Regular Stuff
Owner:Dave Bozzie
Bike Name:Wild Thing
City/State:Stockton / california
Builder: Bozzee Custom Performance
City/state: Stockton / California
Company Info:Bozzie Custom Performance
Address: 4647 E Fremont Street, Stockton CA 95215
Phone: 209-943-0030
Web site: www.bozziecustoms.com
E-mail: bozziecustoms@yahoo.com
Fabrication: Bozzie Custom Performance
Manufacturing: Bozzie Custom Performance
Welding: Bozzie Custom Performance
Machining: Bozzie Custom Performance
Engine
Year: ’08
Make: H-D EVO ‘ s By Bozzie
Model: Land Speed Bike
Displacement: 160 inches
Builder or Rebuilder: Bozzie
Cases: H-D
Case finish: Black
Barrels: H-D
Bore: 3.5
Pistons: Wisco
Barrel finish: Black
Lower end: Ultma
Stroke: 4.250
Rods: Ultma H Beam
Heads: H-D
Head finish: Black
Valves and springs: AV
Pushrods: S.E
Cams: Crane 304
Lifters: H-D
Carburetion: S&S E
Air cleaner: Velocity Stacks
Exhaust: Bozzie
Transmission
Year: 95
Make: H-D 5-speed
Final drive: 1:1
Primary: Custom Bozzie
Clutch: AIM
Frame
Year: ’08
Make: Custom Bozzie
Style or Model: Dual Engine Land Speed
Rake: 48 Degrees
Front End
Make: Custom
Sheet metal
Tanks: Aluminum Custom Made by Bozzie
Fenders: Bozzie Custom Fenders
Oil tank: Oil Tank is Bozzie Custom
Paint
Graphics: Sidelines
Frame: Bozzie Custom
Graphics or art: Lettering by Sidelines
Pinstriping: Sidelines
Wheels
Front
Make: Midwest Custom Aluminum
Size: 16-inch
Tire: Avon
Rear
Make: 150 Z rated 16
Size: 16-inch
Tire: Avon
Controls
Foot controls: Bozzie Custom
Finish: Bozzie Custom
Brake lines: Drag Specialties
Handlebar controls: Harley Davidson
Clutch Cable: Drag Specialties
Brake Lines- Drag Specialties
Shifting: Bozzie Custom
Electrical
Ignition: Crane
Ignition switch: H-D
Wiring: Bozzie Customs
What’s Left
Seat: Cantu Upholstery
Gas caps: Pro 1
Handlebars: Bozzie Custom
Grips: Bozzie Custom
Pegs: Bozzie Custom
Oil filter: Drag Specialties
Oil lines: Stainless Steel Braided
Fuel filter: Drag Specialties
Fuel Lines: Gates
Throttle: Bozzie Customs
Throttle cables: Drag Specialties
Specialty items: Diamond Chain, AIM Clutch
Credits: Bozzie Custom Performance, The Bozzie Family, Rick Cottrell, Bob Gomez,
Sponsors: AIM Clutch, Sidelines Pin Striping, Cantu Upholstery, Bozzie Family and Friends
Johnny Gil’s, La Ruca Grande
By Bandit |
Sturgis 2008 was a fantastic event in many eyes. Bandit's Brouhaha proved to be as successful, as much as it was stressful. People staggered out of the show shaking their heads wondering if they’d ever see another show like that again. According to Bandit, probably not going to be any time soon.
One of the bikes to walk away with honors from the show was La Ruca, an old-school bike with new school flair. The Southwestern Texas shop has been covered in magazines for the better part of a decade, so Johnny’s success at shows is nothing new; but this bike seemed to catch the eye of Bandit as well as Wrench and Sin Wu.
As owner and operator of Johnny’s Custom Shop, Johnny Gil’s addiction was fueled by his father’s love for old cars and fast bikes. Johnny has won many awards but claims,” The most rewarding feeling comes from seeing the smile his customers’ face upon chiseling their creation from scratch.”
Johnny is not just a builder, but a rider as well. Johnny recognizes that not all bikes are going to a museum, so he knows the importance of a solid and dependable ride and his goal is to give his customers just that. You can see the thought is focused as much on riding as it is on fashion when looking at one of Johnny’s bikes. Family is the backbone to his success, and his loyalty to them, his values, and to traditions have built on his philosophy, summed up in one statement; Por Vida (for life).
This beautiful bike's features include a handmade frame, H-D Panhead motor, water jet details, as well as hand-tooled leather accents. After staring at the pictures for the past few days, I only have one question; who’s the chick on the tank and how do I meet her?
Handling all aspects of a build, Johnny has not only mastered welding and fabrication, but he also takes care of paint, pinstriping, molding as well as building engines and transmissions. Knowing that he understands and builds the intricate hearts of a motorcycle; the motor, solidifies him as a true motorcycle builder. The thing that separates the fabricators from the builders is their love and knowledge of the heart of any custom; the motor.
If you get a chance, check out their website, http://www.johnnyscustom.com/index.php. You will see that Johnny’s not new to the industry and has built numerous award winning customs as well as cleaning up some stock H-Ds. Once again it becomes apparent he focuses the riding aspect into his builds as soon as you see his other bikes.
Johnny Gil, a true Texan builder creating some of the classiest customs I have ever seen. Give him a call if you are in the mood for a custom or want to have a little Southwestern flair thrown at your stock bike. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
Until next time…
Bikernet.com Extreme Tech Chart
Regular Stuff
Owner: Santos “Pops” Gil
Bike Name: La Ruca
City/State: McAllen, TX
Builder: Johnny Gil
City/state: McAllen, TX
Company Info: Johnny’s Custom Shop
Address: 1316 Trenton Rd. McAllen, TX
Phone: (956) 687-4256
Web site: www.johnnyscustom.com
E-mail: johnnyscustom308@aol.com
Fabrication: Johnny Gil
Manufacturing: Johnny Gil
Welding: Johnny Gil
Machining: Johnny Gil
Engine
Year: 1961
Make: HD
Model: Panhead
Displacement: 88ci
Builder or Rebuilder: Johnny Gil
Cases: HD
Case finish: Cast Aluminum powder coat
Barrels: HD
Bore: +.30
Pistons: S&S
Barrel finish: Glossy Black powder coat
Lower end: S&S
Stroke: 4 1/4
Rods: S&S
Heads: HD
Head finish: Cast Aluminum powder coat
Valves and springs: Manley
Pushrods: Jims
Cams: Sifton
Lifters: Jims
Carburetion: S&S Super “E”
Air cleaner: V-Twin
Exhaust: Paughco
Mufflers: None
Other: Sterling Silver ceramic coat
Transmission
Year: 1961
Make: HD
Gear configuration: 4 Speed
Final drive: Chain
Primary: BDL
Clutch: BDL
Frame
Year: 2008
Make: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Style or Model: Bobber/ Chopper
Stretch: 4” up 4” out
Rake: 38 degrees
Modifications: None
Front End
Make: 2008
Model: Jon Doe
Year: 2008
Length: NA
Mods: Machined grooves on legs
Sheet metal
Tanks: Paughco
Fenders: Kendal Johnson
Panels: NA
Oil tank: Spun Aluminum
Other: NA
Paint
Sheet metal: Johnny Gil
Molding: Johnny Gil
Base coat: Dupont Gold Nugget (base coat) House of Kolor Pagan Gold Candy
Graphics: Johnny Gil
Type: Ghost Effect floral pattern
Frame: Dupont Gold Nugget (base coat) House of Kolor Pagan Gold Candy (base coat) House of Color Root Beer (Final candy coat
Molding: Johnny Gil
Base coat: Dupont Gold Nugget (base coat) House of Kolor Pagan Gold Candy
Type:
Graphics or art: “Charro” Girl on gas tank E.D.S. Graphics Edgar Solis
Special effects: Gold Leaf, Metal Flake, Candy Johnny Gil
Pinstriping: Johnny GIl
Wheels
Front
Make: V-Twin
Size: 21” x 2.15
Brake calipers: None
Brake rotor(s): None
Tire: Metzeler ME880 21”
Rear
Make: DNA
Size: 18 x 5.5
Brake calipers: Performance Machine
Brake rotor: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Sprocket: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Tire: Metzeler ME880 200mm
Controls
Foot controls: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Finish: Chrome (Meclec Metal Finishing)
Master cylinder: V-Twin
Brake lines: Stainless Steel Clear Coat
Handlebar controls: None
Finish: None
Clutch Cable: Stainless Steel Clear Coat (Barnett Tools)
Brake Lines: None
Shifting: Suicide
Kickstand: Drag Specialties
Electrical
Ignition: Points
Ignition switch: Toggle
Coils: Drag Specialties
Regulator: None
Charging: Cycle Electric Inc.
Wiring: Johnny Gil
Harness: Johnny’s Custom Shop
Headlight: V-Twin
Taillight: V-Twin
Accessory lights: None
Electrical accessories: None
Switches: None
Battery: Interstate Battery
What’s Left
Seat Pan: Johnny Gil Upholstery & Tooling: Daniel Uptmor or Uptmor Saddlery
Mirror(s): None
Gas caps: Matt Hotch
Handlebars: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Grips: Performance Machine
Pegs: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Oil filter: None
Oil cooler: None
Oil lines: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Fuel filter: None
Fuel Lines: Custom (Johnny’s Custom Shop)
Throttle: Arlen Ness
Throttle cables: Stainless Steel Clear Coat (Barnett Tool)
Fasteners: Drag Specialties
Specialty items:Water Jet Cut Items: Handle bar risers, rear fender struts, kicker pedal, foot pegs, shifter arm, pulley shroud, rotor, pulley.Custom single spring front endLeather wrapped grips (Uptmor Saddlery)
Comments:
Credits:Thanks to Pops, sons James and Brian, and LaraWater Jet Cutting by Ameida’s Machine Shop (Thanks Sam and Norma)All Chroming by Meclec Metal Finishing (Thanks Elane and Jaron)Powder Coat by John ChandlerBDL (Thanks Steve)
Most Amazing Bagger
By Bandit |
With the impending release of the new Harley models due in a week, I am always amazed at what gossip the internet can breed. While there is always speculation about new models, upgrades, colors, etc., the fact is that nobody knows what the Factory will come up with next. While the internet buzz has been rampant about the discontinuation of the Road Glide, many are speculating the creation of a water-cooled bagger in its place. As many have claimed for years, the Factory does try to keep it’s ear to the street to find which direction the public would like for it to go. I found this bike recently and was amazed at the level of detail, originality, and overall fit and finish of it’s build. Let’s hope the Factory is listening.
I contacted the owner through an online forum, 1130cc.com. While the V-Rod has since upgraded its engine to 1250cc, the website was created when the engine was the original 1130cc. I found this Road Rod, and had to find out more about the bike. Here’s the owner’s description of his newest baby.
Pat wrote:” The bike is amazing and surpasses all of my previous expectations of what a motorcycle should do. I've been riding for 34 years off and on. I purchased my first V-Rod in 2004 and they have definitely been my passion ever since. Joining an online Forum called 1130cc.com has certainly added value to my ownership experience since. Living on the Prairies of Canada there's not a lot of V-Rod expertise and I've certainly learned and applied quite a bit since becoming an active member of the Forum. Hopefully since joining I've been able to give back to new V-Rod owners as much as I've received since joining.
This particular bike started out as an orange stock 2004 VRSCB which was sold by the local dealer and the new owner backed out of the sale. As a result of this the bike could not be resold as new and was for sale at the local dealership for quite some time. One day I took an advertisement from Cycle Visions to the owner of the dealership and a while later he ordered and converted the bike to a Road Rod but only took it part way. Once again the bike sat in his used room, neglected, with a bald back tire about an inch of dust on it and a dead battery, like a red headed step child. I repeatedly tried to buy the bike from him and after a few years he finally and begrudgingly relented and sold me the bike.
Right then and there the evolution started. I put new tires on it had it serviced, had the battery and the leaky oil sending replaced and haven't stopped tweaking since.
I like the V-Rods because they lean towards a drag racing style as a basic platform. I currently own six, which are different V-Rod models and configurations to suit different tastes. I have a SE Electra Gide and the V-Rod is a lot more fun to ride.
I also like riding the Road Rod because it's unique, especially up here in Canada, and I like to have something a little different to ride.
I like the V-Rod because it's versatile and hopefully will be the Harley Davidson of tomorrow.
Thanks, Pat.
The dash displays many of the creature comforts associated with today’s’ baggers. I would much rather listen to a radio than my I-pod ‘s earphones, but atleast I can still hear my earphones at 120 mph! With the big bore motor, I bet Pat can cruise at 140 mph+!
Below is a list of things that have been done over last fall and this past winter. Many thanks to Forum members (1130cc.com) for their help and the various services that they provide. I'd like to especially thank Jason Ross aka: JR, the Tech who did the work from the local H-D dealer and spares no attention to detail.
1430cc V&H motor with V&H heads, oversized valves and tranny upgrade etc. K&N Topless
58mm throttle bodies
1430cc map
5.7 gram injectors
Chrome engine covers
Heavycycles LED Stage 1 ” V ” tail light
Cycle Visions LED combined turn signa, brake light saddle bag lights
.Custom Dynamics anber LED front turn signals and running lights and brake light signal module
Pingel, electric, Easy shifter
Dyna programmable shift minder, currently set to shift on its own at 8500 RPM.
Cycle Visions heel and toe shifter.
1430 Pondo derby cover
Rick's Tank 5 gallon gas tank
Digital Guard Dawg Key ignition
RC Components Calypso front wheel with single caliper front brake.
Chrome solid rear wheel
New Metzler tires
Chrome brake calipers and handlebar master cylinders
Raptor programmable shift light
HD Slipper clutch
Gloss black swingarm
Gloss black lower fork legs with the RH caliper mount machined off and billet caps
Klock Werks dark tint windshield
Painted inner fairing ( black with a violet clear to match the paint on the bike ) ( Thanks to Wade from www.Tootallairbrush.com for the paint ) Wade also painted the HD radiator cover to match the paint on the bike.
Harmon Kardon H-D stereo with J&M speakers and handlebar controls.
Cycle Visions fairing / dash gauges including an electric compass
SE chrome side covers and SE push button seat latch
2009 CVO Road Glide headlight bezel. No more lexan cover over the headlights.
Overall, I’d say this bike is a stretch from the norm, yet something that a fairly crafty garage hand could accomplish. What with the popularity of baggers today, who’s to say we won’t see more of these Road Rods? As for the Factory, I am still interested to see what they unveil for 2010. While I do not believe the 2010 Road Rod will be a model available yet, I do believe we will see a water–cooled bagger in the next couple of years. I don’t know about you, but I personally look forward to seeing a bike that can go 140 mph, while still complying with factory warranties and staying comfortable all at the same time. Shit, it’s supposed to revolve around the ride anyways, right?
Until next time..
Revolution 1–The Wondermatic
By Bandit |
We at Bikernet pride ourselves on bringing many aspects of the biker lifestyle to the computer screen for our faithful readers. While we have tried to look for the uncommon street machine, we have always tried to bring you the latest and innovative designs. I personally love it when someone tries something new and makes a decent ride out of something that people normally would scoff at, saying, “That’ll never work.” Obviously, Jason Wonder is cut from the same thread.
Jason Wonder is the owner of Wonder Customs in Wichita Falls, Texas. His small shop has been garnering quite a bit of attention because of his attention to detail and penchant for fast motorcycle builds that run with sport bikes. Based on his introduction to bikes from his father’s flat track days, Jason has always leaned towards the faster, more agile bikes. While he will build any style bike a customer wants, his personal favorites are the bikes that really scream. This build has a Revolution motor and is based on the idea of a Ducati racer in a rigid frame.
Check this youtube clip to see this bad assed racer in action. Jason and his cameraman, Chad Crowley Productions, created a cool little montage to the first in a future line of bikes he plans on constructing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8CRMKWHnxw
Jason bought this Street Rod brand new and rode it less than 2000 miles before tearing her down. Being 6’5”, Jason has a hard time fitting on a stock bike. Much like our fearless leader, Bandit, he has modified every bike he could get his hands on since all with the hopes of finding the comfortable riding stance he is after. With the Rev-1, Jason said he can rip this bike up through Northeast Texas all day without a problem. Judging from the tall stance, I’d bet this bike can take some mean corners.
“It’s much faster than a stock V-rod. I think I cut away close to 200 lbs from the factory weight,” Jason explained to me. With the stock 11:1 compression, this 1130 cc machine can surly move with the best of them. Of course we asked about the pipes and Jason explains that it has run fine even with the shorter rear pipe. He has had it tested and the backpressure isn’t an issue.
“The rear pipe is about a foot long, short but no problems. I am running velocity stacks right now with a feed under the tank. Neither low or midrange is effected. This thing is alot faster than a stock bike through every gear.”
With the looks of a streetfighter coupled with the technology of a Revolution motor, I think Jason has definitely stepped outside the box on this build. Check back soon for more customs Wonder Customs in Texas. If any of his other builds turn out as sharp as this one, I am sure we will want to see it.
When I called and talked with Jason, he was busy cleaning the shop. It seems he was preparing for a highschool shop class to come and see his facility the next day. He wanted to reach out to the kids and show them that you don’t have to have a million dollars and a colleger degree in engineering to run a shop. He wants to show them he is still young and seems to be on his way to a successful shop. Newly married, I am sure he will have all the motivation necessary to make sure he is on the right track.
Jason, I raise my bottle of Bud Light Lime to ya. Best of luck and I can’t wait to see your next build. Until next time…
Bikernet.com Extreme Tech Chart
Regular Stuff
Owner: Jason Wonder
Bike Name: Rev-1
City/State: Wichita Falls, Texas
Builder: Wonder Customs
City/state: Wichita Falls, Texas
Company Info:
Web site: wondercustoms.blogspot.com
E-mail: wondercustoms@yahoo.com
Fabrication: Jason
Welding: Jason
Machining: Jason
Engine
Year:2006
Make: Harley Davidson
Model: VRSCR Revolution
Displacement: 1130cc
Carburetion: Fuel Injected
Air cleaner: Twin Velocity Stacks w. internal Filters
Exhaust: Full Titanium on the way!
Transmission
Gear configuration: Higher than stock
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Hydraulic
Frame
Year: 2009
Make: Wonder Customs
Style or Model: Rigid Racer
Rake: 40
Front End
Length: 2 under
Sheet metal
Tanks: Jason
Fenders: Jason
Paint
Sheet metal: Strobes Paint, WF Texas
Wheels
Front
Size: 21×3
Tire: 120 Metzeler
Rear
Size: 18×8.5
Tire: 240 Metzeler
Electrical
What’s Left
Seat: Wonder Customs
Specialty items:This is the first bike of the Rev series being built by Wonder Customs. The others will be treated to single sided swingarms, GP front ends, shorter stances, and also better handling characteristics.
Comments:Check out Rev-2 at the AMD World Championship show in August.
Crazy-Fast Cracker in Los Angeles
By Bandit |
There's something more to riding a chopper than any other motorcycle in the world. There are economical deviates who buy low cc metric bikes to get to work on a dime, save space, reduce air pollution and make a gallon last for a month, but not us. Custom motorcycles, bobbers, rats, choppers, and hot rod bikes represent romance, danger, anti-social activity, creative freedom, and criminal commotion. No wonder the establishment slams us with all the restrictive legislation they can dream, attempting to control our whiskey-drinking selves.
Tom Foster resides at the pinnacle of depravity. He only builds chrome criminals capable of out running 44 magnum bullets. His icons are Indian Larry, Jesse James, Johnny Chop, and the Ron Simms. He lives to build the toughest motorcycles on the planet and ride them out of East Los Angeles crime ridden Avenues district, through Echo Park, to find glitter on Sunset Boulevard until he reaches solace on the coast in Santa Monica, and then slices north through Malibu.
He lives to collect tattoos, work with Roland Sands and Mooneyes, and build bikes for celebs and guys who breathe adventure. When Tom came to the Bikernet Headquarters for tacos and a feature bike interview, he packed $20,000 in his baggy pocket for his run to Performance Machine.
“I only work with a handful of companies in the industry,” Tom said. “Performance Machine, BDL and Chopper Guys are at the top of the list.”
All the bikes he builds contain PM Wheels, brakes, and controls. All his primary drives are BDL. He likes components that work and fit every time.
This tight rider, “Captain Insano,” has been shipped to Japan for bike shows, published in a dozen mags, and featured on American Thunder TV. Most of the fab work was handled at Roland Sands Design facility, then final assembly took place in Tom's home (of 25 years) in the barrio of East Los Angeles, called the Avenues for the 3rd largest street gang in LA, recently featured on the History Channel's “Gangland” show. “It was hairy for some time, before the SWAT, ATF and FBI team cleared it out,” Tom said.
So, why the hell would Bikernet feature a bike that's garnered this level of previous exposure? The girls, natch, and the photography. Peter Linney captured the grizzly side of Los Angeles, downtown, at dusk with the lovely Destiny Monique. Plus Tom has a romantic story to tell regarding building bikes and his fiancée, “Claudia,” who is an attorney in a large downtown law firm.
Tom decided to build a tribute bike to his pal, Johnny Chop, after the last Discovery show.
“Johnny never mentioned his ailment,” Tom said. “He just loved building and riding bikes fast and ignored the rest. He lived the dream.”
“Yeah,” Johnny said to Tom, “I'm just a craftsman.”
That applies to Tom, too. He's existed on the mechanical side all his adult life as a Boeing mechanical engineer (defense systems) and a bike maniac on the side.
“I love the technology,” Tom said. I like forward thinking and now I'm living the dream, building bikes full time.”
While building Captain Insano he attended a Mexican wrestling match at a Lucha Va Voom barrio show in Downtown LA. Tom has a particular gangster look about his too-white self and while he strolled down the Mayan Theater isle, a hot Latina girl grabbed his shirt. “And it was on,” Tom said. “It's never slowed since, like my bikes.”
Tom doesn't own a shop. He builds bikes strictly on a private commission basis, and then rides his land sharks around the notorious 15 million storming citizens of Los Angeles. The Crazy-Fast-Cracker splitting lanes with other wild riders like Gio, who know the treachery, and are willing to flip-off the thundering traffic horde and go for it, until they reach the coast and the open Pacific Ocean splays wide for them, as if they've survived the battle and found nirvana.
So let's summarize. First, this is not an exclusive distinction only available to Los Angeles riders, who have a taste for danger. It's even tougher on the brothers in Chicago, New York City, and Detroit. The weather is a factor. Laws against lane-splitting add another degree of enticement and treachery. Older, poorly maintained roads are a factor. But when the moon is full, and the criminal chopper is tuned to perfection, whether the weather is clear, or there's a dense fog lingering over the asphalt lanes, the road calls and a brother rolls the dice once more. There's nothing like smashing along notorious roads, inches from death to reach her thigh, so soft it melts your heart. What the hell could be better? Some folks just don't get it.
Regular Stuff
Owner:Tom Foster
Bike Name:Captain Insane-O
City/State:L.A. CA
Builder:Tom Foster
City/state:East Los Ese
Company Info:Landsharkz Inc
Phone: 323-428-5830
Web site:crazyfastcracker.com
E-mail: crazyfastcracker@yahoo.com
Fabrication:Tom Foster
Manufacturing:Meth..
Welding:Dennis Sanchez ,Christian Cognigni
Machining:Tom Foster
EngineEnginuity 120″
Year:2007
Make:Engenuity
Model:Evo
Displacement:120″
Builder or Rebuilder:Engenuity
Cases:Engenuity
Case finish:Polished
Barrels:Engenuity
Bore:Big
Pistons:Engenuity
Barrel finish:Polished
Lower end:Engenuity
Stroke:4 5/8-inch
Rods:Engenuity
Heads:Engenuity
Head finish:Polished
Valves and springs:Engenuity
Pushrods:Engenuity
Cams:Engenuity
Lifters:Engenuity
Carburetion:Stage 3 Zippers prepped S&S
Air cleaner:Roland Sands Design
Exhaust:Matt Hotch
Mufflers:For cars
Transmission
Year:2007 Baker
Make:RSD/Baker
Gear configuration:5-speed
Final drive:Fucking Fast…
Primary:PM by BDL
Clutch:PM by BDL
Frame
Year:2007 Chopper Guys
Make:RSD rigid
Style or Model:Rigid
Stretch:A little..
Rake:36 degrees
Modifications:Tab here..Tab there….
Front End
Make:Storz
Model:Inverted mid glide
Year: 2007
Length:1″ under
Mods:Shaved legs
Sheet metal
Tanks:Modified Sporster
Fenders:West Coast Choppers
Oil tank:Modified Sucker Punch Sally
PaintHuntington Beach Body Works
Sheet metal:Tom Foster,Dennis Sanchez
Molding:Rich Evans
Base coat:House of Kolor
Graphics:Huntington Beach Bodyworks
Type:Lace,engine turned silver leaf
Frame:Chopper Guys
Molding:None
Base coat:Nickel Plated.Orange County Plating
Wheels
Front
Make:Performance Machine
Size:21″
Brake calipers:Performance Machine
Brake rotor(s):PM
Tire:Metzler
Rear
Make:Performance Machine
Size:18 x 8.5
Brake calipers:PM
Brake rotor:PM
Pulley:PM
Tire:Metzler
Controls
Foot controls:Performance Machine
Finish:brushed nickel
Master cylinder:PM
Brake lines:Goodridge
Handlebar controls:Performance Machine
Finish:brushed nickel
Clutch Cable:
Brake LinesGoodridge
Shifting:Hand by owner
Kickstand: Matt Hotch
Electrical
Ignition:Compu Fire
Ignition switch:Workz
Coils:Dyna
Regulator:Compu Fire
Charging:Me..
Wiring:Owner
Harness:On dog
Headlight:Headwinds
Taillight:Gary Griffen
Battery:Matt Hotch
What’s Left
Seat:James Crosby pan..Covered by Bitchin Rich
Mirror(s): None
Gas caps:Greg Westbury
Handlebars:Johnny Chop RIP….
Grips:Performance Machine
Pegs:PM
Oil filter:Scotts
Oil cooler:None
Oil lines:Clear
Fuel filter:J&P
Fuel Lines:Clear
Throttle:PM
Throttle cables:Exile internal
Fasteners:Chrome Hardware Supply..Diamond …
Credits:Thankz to Roland Sands,Peformance Machine, BDL,Chopper Guys,Bitchin Rich, Matt Hotch, Rich Evans, Mike Garrison, Bakers, and Storz for all their support…..Dedicated to Johnny Chop..Gone..But never forgotten…..
