4 for 5

This falls under the heading, WHY?

Why do people build shit like this? image from Knucklebuster1939 blog

1970 Harley NOK (New Old Kustom)

I saw this bike when it was originally for sale (just before Big Scott bought it), at the Long Beach Swap. It especially caught my eye because I own a restored '70. It was on a trailer as found, covered with the dust and patina of time and for the most part, looked little used. It was very puzzling until I checked the speedometer.


That's one wild dresser! It's amazing how chrome and paint can transform a stock configured bike.

I talked to the seller about it. He told me about it's history and how it was built for a show (something like Autorama, or World of Wheels? my memory), in San Diego in late 69? For such a nice relic, it was being offered at a bargain price. Later I saw a photo of it on a blog somewhere.


Scott cleaned it up and changed the seat. It had a funky but similar brown seat when unearthed.

Then Big Scott of Cycle Zombies emailed me.

Howdy Chris,
After seeing Stretch's blog (nostalgia on wheels), and seeing the pics of all the dressers, I read your comment that you just posted a bunch. Well I just sold a 1970 FLH custom that was built by the owner of El Cajon Harley, Chuck Holinda. Anyway, he took a brand new bike in late 1969 (first year alternator motor), tore it down completely and chromed it all! Then he molded the tank, frame etc. with raised molded flames! Really cool! By the way only has 3 miles on it! Here is a few pics that you might want to add to your blog. Thanks, Big Scott czombieblog.com

The shocking truth! This explained the bike's unused appearance.


Everything mechanical was given a dip of the bright stuff!

Since my memory was foggy I emailed Scott for the show infomation.

Scott replied, "I don't have a lot of info on the shows it was in. There was one show in '71 where it took 3rd place. Randy Smith and Bob Clark of Street Chopper were both judges but, thats all I know".

Molded flames to raise the judges eyes.

Scott added, "The bike cleaned up amazing, a little bit of chrome flaking off the aluminum heads and covers. Anyway, post what you want"

Later, I ran into Scott at the Long Beach swap and he told me how after flushing the tanks and some proper prep it fired right up and ran like new. It was then traded for a nice original '58. It's current owner has stripped and is storing the bags, changed the seat, put apes on it, and now rides the hell out it!

Photos: Big Scott. Re-imaged/Photoshoped: CK.

Gasoline Gallery's CA Screaming 4 or...

... one big post.

Every May, for the last four years, Gasoline Gallery in El Segundo Ca. holds it's annual Art and Hot Rod show. The block in front of the gallery is closed off to traffic for a informal drive (or ride), in show. I was on my shovel so it was easy to get past the road barriers and was lucky to find a spot in the middle of the block just across from from the gallery.


The street scene I encountered once parked.


Not a Harley! First order of business was to check out this Rikuo. Coming soon, a post solely dedicated to this bike.


Next stop, the gallery. My mission, get in , shoot some art, and get out alive. Here's what I was up against.


Hey buddy, your blocking the art! It appeared they had more art packed in than ever.


I myself have toyed with the notion of doing some art in the style of '60's biker film posters. Art by James Owens.


This one quickly caught my eye, and for a minute, wouldn't let go. Art by Jet Wrench.


Something for everybody?...


... or one to match the sofa?


This incredible stipple art (tiny ink dots), was a bargin. Is this why he's called Krazy Dottie?


Another by Krazy Dottie. How he can let these go at this price? It's not surprising someone fetched it right up.


I really dig Makoto's graphic style


This guy's getting fame.


Interesting style/technique.


There's always a Weesner or two on hand.


I really liked this concept of doing stripes as sculpture. I apologize for the blurred photo and lack of credit. It's tough shooting in a crowded gallery.


Hey, where's the C. Kallas art?


One "Flaky" Deuce


TLT, Tight Little Turnip.


Suede Red, the new Flat Black


Cool sissy bar. Ala Mid Century modern art.


They let Harley's in?


If it's ALL BLACK, it must be a Bobber. Don't even go there!


The Britt's are taking over!


The line up kept changing.


The Adam's family dropped in.


This beast caused a small ruckus pulling in. Sort of looks like a sedan version of my Monsterod T-shirt art.


A few artist were set up to hock their goods.


Folks, please don't bump the table!


Sorry but, the plain crappy lettering really detracts from this nice rod.


Can't afford a old board tracker?... build a replica from a bicycle .


Straight axles Rule!


The Nova's nifty novelty shifter knob. Say that fast!


Cherry in more ways than one.


They only let this one in because of it's green tire.


It's always interesting to see the choices guys make.


I'm speechless.


Nice bike hauler.


The cargo.


I saved the nicest "Limey" for last... sorry, I couldn't help myself.

Until the next post, Later!