Prepare to be amazed by a true masterpiece on two wheels! This Harley Shovelhead Bobber, crafted by the talented Hideki Hoshikawa, is a stunning creation that defies description. With a skill set that rivals the best, Hoshikawa has breathed new life into a 1978 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead, creating a one-of-a-kind custom bike named Bennu.
Hoshikawa, a master builder from Japan's custom motorcycle scene, embarked on a journey to transform this classic bike into something extraordinary. In a meticulous process, he stripped away almost all the original parts, leaving only the essence of the machine. The frame was then reborn with a single downtube backbone, reinforced to support his artistic vision. And that's just the beginning of this remarkable story.
But here's where it gets controversial—the stock suspension was replaced with a rigid hardtail setup, a bold choice that accentuates the bike's vintage appeal. And the front end? It's a vintage lover's dream, featuring a leaf spring fork from W&W Cycles, a 22-inch wheel, and a Kustom Tech drum brake, all reminiscent of a bygone era. The rear follows suit with a 19-inch wheel and another Kustom Tech drum, ensuring a harmonious old-school look.
Under the hood, or rather, beneath the seat, lies the heart of this beast—a powerful S&S Cycle 74-cubic-inch V-twin engine. Originally not intended for an engine swap, Hoshikawa's decision to replace the heavily modified racing engine with the S&S unit was a stroke of genius. Custom rocker covers, an S&S Super E carburetor, and a bespoke velocity stack ensure optimal performance and a unique aesthetic.
The exhaust system is a true work of art, with a handcrafted two-into-one header that gracefully flows down the left side, under the seat, and ends in a meticulously crafted muffler. And the attention to detail doesn't stop there. The bike's centerpiece is a custom two-piece tank, one side for fuel and the other for oil, connected by a polished aluminum panel housing the ignition and speedometer. It's a functional work of art.
The cockpit has been refined with minimalist handlebars, an internal throttle, and a sleek billet brake lever, while the clutch and jockey shifter add a touch of vintage flair. Lighting is provided by a Crime Scene Choppers headlight and a subtle LED taillight, ensuring both style and safety.
Finished in a deep, lustrous blue with gold pinstriping and brass accents, the Bennu is a testament to Hoshikawa's craftsmanship. Asterisk Custom Works has delivered a powerful statement with this build, leaving us eager for their next creation. And this is the part most people miss—the wait for Hideki's next masterpiece might just be worth every second.
What do you think about this custom Shovelhead Bobber? Do you appreciate the blend of vintage style and modern craftsmanship? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to share your thoughts on the controversial hardtail suspension setup!
