Unique, Artistic, Powerful, Custom-Built Cruiser
Ah, there’s nothing quite like the hum of a well-tuned engine, the gleam of polished chrome, and the whiff of petrol. The thrill of exploring the open road on a two-wheeled steed is something that transcends any specific time or place, a universal call to adventure that those like Norman Reedus understand all too well. The man's a seasoned rider, a collector, a wanderer on the path less taken.
His newest mount, a work of Yaniv Even at Powerplant Motorcycles, is a testament to Reedus' taste. It began life as an Indian Sport Chief, a solid machine by any measure, but what's come out of the legendary LA shop is something else entirely. Like a phoenix, it's been reborn, and boy, does it command attention.
The build showcases some remarkable features. The fuel cell, modified, narrowed, and raised, sports custom 3″ louvers and an MX-style tank vent breather. It's like a piece of industrial art nestled in the frame. The two-up-friendly Cobra-style saddle, with its step design for passengers, moulds into the custom bobbed rear fender like it was born there. A neat backrest doubles as the license plate holder and taillight bracket, a touch of practical flair that I can't help but appreciate.
The heart of this beast? A mighty 116ci Thunder Stroke V-Twin engine, now sporting a classy blacked-out finish with polished cooling fins. A custom-fabricated stainless steel exhaust roars into a RedThunder cone, the growl of freedom itself. And the livery, oh the livery. A vintage-inspired flamed design that would make even the most stoic rider grin.
What I love about this motorcycle is its spirit. It’s not just another exhibit in Reedus’ collection, nor a mere piece of custom eye-candy destined to languish in some plush garage. No, this bike was built to taste the wind, to dance on the tarmac. It is a rider's bike, and Reedus, with his well-known love for the road, is sure to give it the journey it deserves.
It's the first in a series of “Forged” builds commissioned by Indian, and if this is any indication of what's to come, well, I can't wait to see the next ones. So, hats off to Reedus and Powerplant. In this world of mass production and fleeting novelty, it's a joy to see craftsmanship, passion, and the spirit of adventure alive and well. Here's to the open road and the story this bike will write on it.
Ah, the dance of positives and negatives, the balancing act we all undertake when considering a new machine. So let's delve into the pros and cons of this unique Indian Sport Chief Chopper custom built for Norman Reedus.
Pros:
- Uniqueness: The chopper is a one-off, a distinct model crafted with individual care and attention. It sets itself apart with its singular design and specific modifications.
- Craftsmanship: The bike is the product of meticulous workmanship, with every detail, from the custom-fabricated stainless steel exhaust to the polished cooling fins, clearly designed and executed with a high degree of skill.
- Performance: The upgraded 116ci Thunder Stroke V-Twin engine and the Brembo brakes indicate that this bike is meant for more than just looks; it's designed to deliver powerful performance on the road.
- Aesthetics: The bespoke vintage-inspired flamed livery, custom louvers and the blacked-out finish give this bike a distinct and visually appealing look.
- Riding Experience: With Reedus being a passionate rider, the chopper was built not just for show, but for riding. The two-up-friendly Cobra-style saddle implies it's also designed for a comfortable riding experience for two.
Cons:
- Exclusivity: While being a one-off provides uniqueness, it also means that if any damage happens or any part needs replacement, finding the suitable part or expert who can handle it might be more challenging and potentially expensive.
- Cost: Custom-built bikes like this typically come with a hefty price tag due to the workmanship, materials, and uniqueness involved. While the actual cost isn't specified, it's safe to assume that this motorcycle won't be cheap.
- Maintenance: The bespoke nature of the bike could also translate into higher maintenance requirements. Specialized knowledge might be needed for servicing and upkeep, which could be more costly and time-consuming.
- Comfort for Long Rides: Despite the thought that went into designing the Cobra-style saddle, choppers, in general, are not renowned for their comfort over long rides. The bike's form-over-function approach may lead to discomfort during extended use.
- Practicality: Choppers are often considered more of a lifestyle or a showpiece than a practical means of transportation. The modified elements may affect the bike's usability in everyday situations.
In the end, the decision hinges on the rider's priorities. For those who value uniqueness, performance, and craftsmanship, and are willing to overlook practicality and potential maintenance concerns, this Indian Sport Chief Chopper is quite the catch. However, for someone looking for a more utilitarian, low-maintenance bike, this may not be the most suitable choice.
