How the build came about?

MIDGET11: I wanted an old school bobber using modern technology. I also wanted to make sure it turned out to be a rideable bike. No trailer queens here! Too many bike these days get polished more than they get ridden.

Was it an easy project?

BEOSC: It was fairly challenging considering that this was our first non-H-D style build and we had to marry SAE and metric parts on it at almost every single turn. We did not have any drawings for the motor mount location points, so we literally hoisted that big-ass, heavy engine/tranny combo in and out of the jig several times by hand to design and fit-up the mounts. Kevin had decided to use a lot of the original Trump parts (metric) with H-D aftermarket stuff, so nothing - I mean nothing - would bolt up directly without machining something either a spacer, a fastener, or just re-drilling and tapping.

What was it like to work with BEOSC?

MIDGET11: Big Daddy is the man! My initial search for a Triumph frame builder was less than satisfying. No returned calls, no returned e-mail, no interest, no mso's, etc. I found BEOSC @ www.bitterendchoppers.com online thanks to a search engine. I contacted them via e-mail about my plans for a Triumph frame, keep in mind this was an all-new concept. In the beginning BD wasn't sure if I was for real! But after returning my E-mail and after a couple of phone calls I knew I had found the right builder. He provided me with step by step updates-always returning phone calls promptly-great photo updates[check out the gallery]-fantastic input and a great talent. He has an amazing gift for listening to my ideas and bringing them to life. It had to be smooth. It had to have curves. And it had to be clean. I could not be happier with the way this bike has turned out. We started with a frame build and it turned into a complete roller. The final assembly for for me was a blast!

Do you feel you got enough artistic freedom or did Kevin know exactly what he wanted?

BEOSC: He was pretty clear about what he wanted, but once I earned his trust he gave us a lot of lattitude, which we really appreciated. I thought his original concept was a little cornball at first and it took me a while to warm up to it. But, in retrospect, the concept was rock solid and even visionary. He wanted all curves, clean-ness, and smoothness everywhere. I usually like to build 'em as low-down and back-alley dirty as I can, so we had to negotiate certain ideas.

How did you get your inspiration?

MIDGET11: My first memories of motorcycling are gripping the apehangers of my dads 62 Bonneville. I was riding before I was walking. Altho I have been fortunate to own several type of motorcycles-dirt bikes-dual purpose-sport bikes-a few HD's-even a Big Dog- that Triumph keeps coming back. I've always loved the simple bobber look. Indian Larry-Exile-Insane Custom Cycle and of course Bitter End have all influenced this build. We are living in the greatest era ever for bike building. These great builders are just a mouse click away. Its so easy to get their products and tech support. No matter what your skill level, you can now be involved in a true custom build from A-Z. And this website gives a first time builder[read assembler] like myself a fantastic way to share my build and pick up some great input.

How do you feel about the finished product?

BEOSC: Even though I haven't even seen the finished bike in real life (we live 6+ hours apart), I am very proud of it. I am usually not into pretty bikes, but this one has got me good. I guess especially because it shows a whole other dimension to what we can do. I am very impressed with the way Kevin took all of our machining and fabrication to the next level with his final assembly, parts selection, and finishing work. Kevin has promised that I will get to ride it someday and I can't wait.

How about a parts list?

MIDGET11: This is the best part! We used as much of the original 2003 Triumph T100 Bonneville as possible in an effort to keep the build cost down-engine/trans-ignition-wiring harness-coils-exhaust headers-gas tank-wheels-brakes-fork tubes-and axles. I then sold leftover-triple trees-frame rails-headlight-turn signals-stoplight-fenders-chrome bits and more. We used PM controls-V factor 16'' apes-XOXOPRODX forward controls-Avon tires-Exile throttle-Vincent repro stoplamp[w BD custom mount] The headlight is a sealed beam from Arlen Ness-BD also fitted up a custom tag bracket-HD agm battery w BD custom strap-Chica seat-Johnny Goodson @ Insane Custom Cycle provided the triple trees and his metalwork on the original Triumph gas tank is off the hook!-I also love the monza style gas cap I found @ www.bellacorse.com a great place for after market Triumph parts-The custom faux oil tank is used to hide the electrics,coils,fuse block even the ignition switch [look closely at the dipstick-its the key!] Every part on this bike flows together. Smooooth! Big Daddy custom fitted everything you see here. Its an incredible work of art that begs to be ridden! And ride it I do!