Best Custom Motorcycle Builders

 

There are several highly regarded custom motorcycle builders in the USA, each known for their unique styles and exceptional craftsmanship. Here are a few notable names you might find interesting:

1. Eddie Trotta (Thunder Cycle Designs): Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Eddie Trotta is renowned for his custom choppers and motorcycles. His bikes are known for their sleek, aggressive designs and attention to detail.

2. Jesse James (West Coast Choppers): Jesse James gained fame through his television show and is known for his innovative and edgy motorcycle designs. Based in Austin, Texas, West Coast Choppers has produced some iconic custom bikes.

3. Paul Teutul Sr. (Orange County Choppers): Made famous by the television show “American Chopper,” Paul Teutul Sr. and his team at Orange County Choppers create unique, often themed custom motorcycles that have become popular worldwide.

4. Roland Sands: A former professional motorcycle racer turned custom builder, Roland Sands designs and builds high-performance custom bikes blending vintage style with modern technology. Based in Los Alamitos, California.

5. Arlen Ness Motorcycles: Arlen Ness was a pioneer in the custom motorcycle scene, known for his innovative designs and custom parts. Although Arlen Ness passed away in 2019, his legacy continues through his family and the brand.

6. Indian Larry Motorcycles: Although no longer active (since Indian Larry passed away in 2004), Indian Larry was a highly respected custom motorcycle builder based in New York City. His motorcycles were characterized by their classic styling and meticulous craftsmanship.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other talented custom motorcycle builders across the USA. The best one for you might depend on the specific style and type of motorcycle you’re interested in. Each builder typically has a distinct aesthetic and approach to custom bike building.

Here are further details including addresses or locations for some of the top custom motorcycle builders in the USA:

1. Eddie Trotta (Thunder Cycle Designs)

   • Location: 3731 SW 47th Ave, Davie, FL 33314, USA
   • Website: Thunder Cycle Designs

2. Jesse James (West Coast Choppers)

   • Location: Austin, Texas (Exact workshop address may not be publicly available due to privacy)

3. Paul Teutul Sr. (Orange County Choppers)

   • Location: 14 Crossroads Ct, Newburgh, NY 12550, USA
   • Website: Orange County Choppers

4. Roland Sands

   • Location: 10571 Los Alamitos Blvd, Los Alamitos, CA 90720, USA
   • Website: Roland Sands Design

5. Arlen Ness Motorcycles

   • Location: 6050 Dublin Blvd, Dublin, CA 94568, USA
   • Website: Arlen Ness Motorcycles

6. Indian Larry Motorcycles

   • Indian Larry Motorcycles was based in Brooklyn, New York. While Indian Larry is no longer with us, his legacy continues through his influence on the custom motorcycle community.

Please note that some of these locations may be workshops or showrooms, and it’s a good idea to contact them directly or check their websites for specific information about visiting or commissioning a custom motorcycle.

Keep in mind that the custom motorcycle industry is dynamic, and some builders may have shifted locations or expanded their operations. For the most up-to-date information, visiting their official websites or reaching out to them directly would be the best approach. Additionally, consider following their social media accounts for the latest updates on their projects and activities.

Exploring the Artistry of Custom Motorcycle Builders in the USA

In the world of motorcycles, there exists a breed of artisans whose canvas is chrome, steel, and rubber. These are the custom motorcycle builders—individuals and workshops renowned for their ability to transform ordinary bikes into extraordinary works of rolling art. Across the United States, several builders have risen to prominence, each leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of custom motorcycle culture. Let’s delve into the world of these master craftsmen and their creations.

Eddie Trotta – Thunder Cycle Designs

Eddie Trotta, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is synonymous with cutting-edge custom choppers. Founder of Thunder Cycle Designs, Eddie’s creations are a blend of aggressive styling and meticulous craftsmanship. Each Thunder Cycle bike is a testament to Eddie’s bold vision, featuring sleek lines, custom-forged components, and powerful engines. From his signature Thunder Bob to stunning one-off creations, Eddie Trotta’s bikes exude raw power and attention to detail.

Visit Thunder Cycle Designs at:
3731 SW 47th Ave, Davie, FL 33314, USA

Jesse James – West Coast Choppers

Jesse James is a name that needs no introduction in the world of custom motorcycles. Based in Austin, Texas, Jesse founded West Coast Choppers, a workshop that became synonymous with innovative designs and unparalleled craftsmanship. Jesse’s bikes often feature a blend of old-school aesthetics with modern performance enhancements. From his iconic “El Diablo” to custom creations for celebrities, Jesse James continues to push the boundaries of custom motorcycle design.

Paul Teutul Sr. – Orange County Choppers

The Teutul family’s Orange County Choppers gained global fame through the hit TV show “American Chopper.” Founded by Paul Teutul Sr. in Newburgh, New York, OCC is known for its themed bikes and larger-than-life creations. Paul Sr.’s bikes are often characterized by intricate detailing, custom paint jobs, and unique themes. Whether it’s a patriotic tribute or a corporate commission, Orange County Choppers delivers on both form and function.

Visit Orange County Choppers at:
14 Crossroads Ct, Newburgh, NY 12550, USA

Roland Sands

Roland Sands is a former professional motorcycle racer turned custom bike builder based in Los Alamitos, California. His creations seamlessly blend vintage aesthetics with modern performance. Roland’s bikes often feature lightweight materials, high-performance engines, and a minimalist design ethos. Whether it’s a café racer, tracker, or bobber, Roland Sands Design produces bikes that are as exhilarating to ride as they are stunning to behold.

Visit Roland Sands Design at:
10571 Los Alamitos Blvd, Los Alamitos, CA 90720, USA

Arlen Ness Motorcycles

Arlen Ness was a true pioneer in the custom motorcycle scene. Based in Dublin, California, Arlen’s workshop continues to produce bikes that embody innovation and style. Arlen Ness Motorcycles are known for their custom parts and accessories, allowing enthusiasts to create their own unique rides. From chromed-out cruisers to sleek baggers, Arlen Ness bikes are a testament to his legacy as a visionary builder.

Visit Arlen Ness Motorcycles at:
6050 Dublin Blvd, Dublin, CA 94568, USA

Indian Larry Motorcycles

Although Indian Larry (Larry Desmedt) is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through Indian Larry Motorcycles in Brooklyn, New York. Indian Larry was known for his old-school choppers and meticulous craftsmanship. His bikes often featured hand-formed metalwork, sculptural frames, and striking paint schemes. Indian Larry’s influence on the custom motorcycle community continues to inspire builders around the world.

The Art of Custom Motorcycle Building

What sets these custom motorcycle builders apart is not just their technical expertise but their ability to infuse passion and creativity into every build. Each builder has a distinct style and approach, ranging from traditional choppers to avant-garde creations. Custom motorcycle building is more than just engineering; it’s an art form that celebrates individuality and self-expression.

The allure of a custom bike lies in its exclusivity—each one is a reflection of its owner’s personality and tastes. Whether it’s a sleek café racer, a rugged bobber, or a radical chopper, a custom motorcycle is a statement of rebellion and freedom on two wheels.