Article #13, 19 May 2011 by Harné Heuvelman

When young rebels started to customise their bikes in the 1950's, they started a whole new motorcycle culture focusing entirely on the thrill of motorcycling. We love the machines they created and use the 'café racer' as an inspiration to design and build custom motorcycles based on classic and modern Ducati technology.

The 1950’s were the age of youngsters ‘rebelling without a cause’ as was greatly depicted by James Dean in 1955. There was a huge amount of cheap used motorcycles available these days, as normal transportation was moving in the direction of the car. For these young rebels, the motorcycle became the way to get mobile, upsetting their parents in the process. How could this be better?

Well, there sure were ways to make it even better. Inspired by motorcycle racers the new bike owners started tearing every unnecessary part off their bikes, replacing some with racing handlebars, extra loud exhausts and short mudguards. The racers for the road were created and a motorcycle culture based on speed and freedom was coming along.

Nowadays the motorcycle is widely used for getting the wind in your helmet and the bugs in your teeth. But the café racers of the 1950’s started this culture, making their own bikes and racing them around the city. The bike was the extension of the rebelling personality, the girl became second. 

The Ducati engines have a very distinct look and feel to them and can serve as a very good basis for a custom motorcycle. We can incorporate all your wishes starting with a standard Ducati frame or with a blank piece of paper.

We start with the basics. How do you plan to use the bike? What’s important to you? Is it speed? Comfort? Show? What is the inspiration? Is it a racing bike? An off-roader? Or do you have other specific ideas? The process of preparation takes quite a while as we have to discuss every single details of your future custom bike. But we assure you that this process is fun in itself!

Next is the actual building of you bike. We have the skills and tools available to create the bike of your dreams. We normally have several engines and frames available from stock, so we can make a quick start on your Ducati custom. You will be kept posted on a regular basis and receive a photo book of the complete process once it’s finished.

Do you have plans for a Ducati custom? Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any question you might have. Contact us for advice by filling in the form below.