
Every now and then a bike pops up that completely flouts the established vernacular of custom building. This is one of them. It was built by
Revival Cycles, a shop run by three committed motorcycle enthusiasts in Austin, Texas. Founder Alan Stulberg tells the story: �Four years ago, Bill Twitchell was gifted a pile of parts that resembled a BMW R75/5. It belonged to one of his friends, who realized he was never likely to never get the bike together again, and decided to let it move on to a new life.� The inspiration for the build was the iconic
BMW R32 and its exposed, business-like mechanicals. �The R32 represented a simpler time in BMW�s history,� says Alan. The parts that turned up at Revival were in rough shape�the motor literally had dirt inside it�but the workshop persevered. They decided that a BMW chopper was the way to go, starting with the coffin-shaped stainless tank and a stack of C-channel steel. Neat details are the LED strip taillights built into the frame, the dirtbike pegs, the tractor seat (�surprisingly comfortable on long road trips�), the reverse hand levers and the nail-puller/brake pedal that belonged to Bill�s great grandfather. The bike has evolved over time: it�s been ridden to both coasts of the US, and used as a daily rider for years. �The extra brake cable lovingly strapped to the front of the bike is proof that this chopper is ready for most anything,� says Alan. Bill reportedly refuses to wash this bike, but sometimes treats it to a wipe down with an oily rag. So, no trailer queen here then.
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