Before You Build...

Would you absolutely have to have Dunlop K-80/81 "tyres" for that authentic riding experience, or would you install cheap Chinese imitations? Would you use a tire constructed of space-age compounds that gives you the performance edge, or one designed to outlast its competitors? Most people choose a specific style for their custom bike, but it is also important to choose a quality level. I know what you�re thinking, �I would only use top of the line parts for my motorcycle!� But the measure of quality far surpasses name brand or price.

Consider mountain bike components: a brand of components-say Shimano, for example, will typically offer three levels of quality, all composed the same, but perhaps using lighter materials in the higher end parts. The high end parts also tend to have better fit and finish, so they integrate more seamlessly into the performance of your bike. Typically, riders upgrade all related components at once, keeping the bike unified in design, function and value. However, this does not necessarily apply to motorcycles.

How often do you see a motorcycle that someone has gone out and purchased the �chrome kit� and �upgraded� several components at the same time to get that "custom" look? How many times has that really impressed you? It�s been a long time since I have been dazzled by the latest chrome doodad.

My philosophy is different. I prefer to avoid sensory overload, so I don�t chrome everything. And since so many factory and custom parts are automatically chrome nowadays, I like to de-chrome items you�d usually take for granted, like handlebars, trim or exhaust. This allows me to emphasize the parts I want to feature. The most important aspect of customizing is not quantity (of chrome, brand name parts, gadgets, etc.) but quality-quality of workmanship obviously, but also your qualities. Your personal touch is what truly makes it custom.