Retro-style Bobber Custom
If you were at last year's Melbourne Motorcycle Expo, you may recall this issue's Bike of the Month. In amongst some of the outlandish and impractical show bikes, this retro-styled bobber creation from Johnny's Hog Shop was a breath of fresh air - a cool custom bike that you can actually ride all day, and do it in comfort thanks to full suspension.
Completed just prior to the Expo, this individual creation has been serving as a show bike in Johnny's workshop for the past few months, but the time has now come for it to move on. The Bobber inspiration behind this bike is pretty obvious, but Johnny told us this particular one off actually sprung out of a DNA Specialty softail rolling chassis and an EVO engine rebuilt from a number of EVO parts left over from other projects. The engine is largely stock, including CV carb, but has been treated to ported cylinder heads, with a Compu-Fire single fire ignition and Andrews cam for that 'new skool' touch while the rumble comes courtesy of Hi Lo slash cut pipes. The EVO hooks up to a 5 speed Ultima gearbox, through a 3" BDL open primary to the belt drive rear.
The addition of a reliable Thunder Fire starter motor continues the modern technology, while the springer front end on a 36 degree rake - standard fitment for this style DNA chassis - keeps it looking "old skool". Pegs and controls are also DNA. As mentioned at the top of this article, this Bobber does feature a softail rear, but it certainly doesn't detract from the bike's retro looks or overall appeal. It also means you can ride this beauty all day without having to see your chiropractor afterwards!
The rear end is large - 180 - but still in keeping with the Bobber look. Alloy 60 spoke rims - 21x2.25 front and 180x18 rear - continue the retro theme, and both are shod with new Metzeler rubber. Brakes are four piston alloy type (similar to aftermarket Harley-Davidson) on vented discs front and rear, so this bike has plenty of stopping power.
The bars on this bike are one of its more distinctive features, and Johnny has obviously put a bit of thought into them. The Z-type 12" mini apes on top of DNA Specialty 4" flat top risers stand out, thanks to their gloss black finish. Would the bars look better in chrome to pick up on the rest of the front end? We'll let the new owner decide that one!
Modern grips and switchgear, Ness-style mirrors and a full electronic dash, including speedo, rev counter and warning lights are a nod to modernity, while the aftermarket headlight and Le Pera sprung solo seat keep the retro fires burning. Other aftermarket bits include the MidWest Cycle Supply maltese cross air cleaner and retro-style horn cover, along with independent OEM rear light and indicators. The rear guard is a Zodiac item, which along with the genuine H-D Sportster XL tank, has been painted in 'Denim Blue' with a white pearl stripe that Locky from Johnny's Hog Shop describes as a Corvette Gran Sport stripe!
Constructed for the latter day 'Easy Rider', this unique EVO-powered machine will cruise tirelessly all day - or bar hop, not that we condone that sort of thing!!
As we were compiling this article, the Engineers Certificate had just been completed (while it was a showroom drawcard, it wasn't required), and Johnny's will also include 12 months rego in the sale price of $28,500.
You can spend a hell of a lot more than this on a retro-style bobber, and still only get a rigid that's a pain in the arse - literally! - to ride. For under thirty grand, Johnny reckons this bike is a much better deal for your back pocket - as well as your back!
'Retro-style Bobber Custom'
Johnny's Hog Shop
Source: JUST BIKES, June 2009
