Fun, Not Fast

The popularity of custom and retro bikes has exploded. Here’s why and how you can be part of it

- Carlos Robbins

Love them or hate them, but fashion-focused bikes are here to stay. Why? Because, like it or not, we’re living in the post-performance era, where speed is trumped by style. For many, it’s not about how quickly you reach your destination, but the size of your grin getting there. And let’s face it, speeding these days just lands you in jail.

For emerging buyers of this belief, it’s about enjoying your bike, personalised by you. That’s right, custom bikes — as in the new wave of bobbers, choppers, cafe racers, scramblers, brats and trackers — and all are as individual as their creators.

The popularity of today’s custom bike scene has exploded across the globe and there’s very much a culture and industry supporting it and thriving from it. Think the likes of Deus ex Machina, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, yes, the rise of the hipster, and the proliferation and relevance of bloggers and social media. Then there’s the renaissance effect for many long-time riders who’ve developed a desire for less go-fast and more feel-good. Just look at ARR’s own Brian Rix, for example. His regular ride might be a BMW R 1200 GSA that’s quick, capable and comfortable, but he loves riding and tinkering with his old R75 airhead, which he’s turned into a neat cafe racer. Ask him about it and watch him grin like a Cheshire cat.

It’s about enjoying the ride, isn’t it? Let’s take a closer look.

RETRO BIKES