What's a guy to do when he gets smashed by a car while riding along on his pedal bike, just minding his own business? Why, pour all that insurance money into a new motorcycle build, of course. That's exactly what Rich did, and with the help of some very worthy co-conspirators, he ended up with one badass Sporty.

The most telling thing about a custom motorcycle is always its "stance," and this one nailed it. With clip-ons, a tiny fender and no frivolous doo-dads, this all-business machine is as fast-looking and compact as can be.

Owner name, location: Rich Knight, Costa Mesa, CA

Engine, year and make, model, modifications: 2003 "100th Anniversary" Sportster 883, now a 1200. No head or cam work done so that HP and torque remains at lower RPM. 

Frame: Paughco frame

Fork: Sporty fork cut way short

Tire/wheel size and style: 16"/19" big Firestones

Favorite thing about this bike: It's low and fast, fun to late brake and skid to stops

Next modification will be: Get fork to work a little better... railroad crossings at 60 mph have been "interesting," to say the least

Other mods, accessories, cool parts, etc: Custom fabbed bits are rear fender struts & fender, plate holder, oil tank, pipes, sectioned gas tank, air cover, brass riser covers, clip-on bars, brass front hub cover, modded 10" front rotor & caliper

Backstory: I bought this 'sickle with insurance money after being creamed by a car on a bicycle. I have a gimp leg and back now so kick starting a real bike (Triumph, Shovelhead, Panhead) etc) is out of the question. So instead I end up getting this bike built. With its push button start, quiet lube-less belt drive, no oil leaks and reliability, I really feel like I'm cheating by riding it. My thanks go out to all those out there keeping the vintage bikes on the road! 

Thanks to: 

Brian Adams at Sub Culture Cycles; Jeremiah at Love Cycles; Rudy at Foundry Moto (all three collaborated to build the bike while working together at Foundry a couple years back) 

Ralph at Mesa Cycles in Costa Mesa, CA

Click the photo above for a big image that you can use as a desktop background.

Photos: BFJosh