Unforgettable Custom Motorcycles to Experience at the Handbuilt Show in Texas
Enthusiasts of artistic rebellion on two wheels are in for a treat at the Handbuilt Show in Austin, Texas. This celebrated gathering, renowned for its daring and uniquely crafted machines, brings together innovators and custom builders from around the globe. With over 150 custom motorcycles on display, each one a manifestation of unbridled creativity, the event serves as an electrifying platform for those who dare to dream beyond conventional design. Witnessing these custom masterpieces in person is a transformative experience for any motorcycle aficionado. Come and delve into a world where innovation meets passion.
The Handbuilt Show is an annual celebration of custom motorcycles and the creative minds behind them. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable showcase of truly unique custom bikes and the best craftsmanship from across the globe. From sleek café racers to vintage-inspired choppers, the 2025 show in Austin, Texas, will display more than 150 exceptional motorcycles. Get ready to meet the builders, discover their inspirations, and dive into the fascinating world of hand-built machines.
Aurora by Antonio Schefle
This custom café racer, dubbed Aurora, showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of Antonio Schefle. Relocated to Houston from Spain, Schefle is known for his attention to detail and passion for reimagining BMW motorcycles. Featuring a 1993 1,000 cc BMW Airhead engine paired with modern performance enhancements, Aurora can reach speeds of up to 130 mph. Its design highlights a classic BMW R100 frame adapted with components like an R90 fuel tank and stylish Kevlar and fiberglass fairing. Aurora is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends vintage charm and contemporary power.
The Krauser Domani by Michael Krauser
A three-wheeled marvel, the Krauser Domani is the brainchild of BMW sidecar racing champion Michael Krauser. Known for his successes in the National German Championships and a motorcycle luggage brand, Krauser’s Domani is a true testament to innovation. Utilizing BMW mechanics and a center-hub steering frame from Louis Christen Racing, this unique machine boasts a fiberglass body and an intercooled turbocharged engine capable of a 140 mph top speed. Its distinct blend of history and modern engineering make it a standout at the show.
Jimmy Messina’s SR1
The SR1 carries the legacy of the late Jimmy Messina, a young innovator behind its creation. This naked street bike combines an American 1,200 cc V-twin engine with a custom arched-backbone frame. Emphasizing café racer styling, the SR1 features CNC-machined components and aeronautical-grade aluminum. A tribute to Jimmy’s pioneering spirit, the SR1 promises to inspire future generations of motorcycle enthusiasts.
Project Legacy One by Khanh Vu
Khanh Vu’s futuristic Project Legacy One is an ambitious venture stemming from his senior-thesis project at the University of Houston. Drawing inspiration from science fiction genres like Tron and cyberpunk, Vu designed a functional 3-D-printed electric motorcycle that prioritizes safety and enhanced rider experience. With integrated cameras for improved visibility and LED lighting, this motorcycle represents a blend of aesthetic appeal and practical design. It’s a symbol of innovation and creativity, capturing the spirit of the modern motorcycle enthusiast.
Dalton Devore’s 1973 CR750
An homage to one of Honda’s iconic racing motorcycles, Dalton Devore’s 1973 CR750 emerged after years of dedication and part scavenging. With mostly original components, this build mirrors the aesthetics and specifications of the factory race bikes. Equipped with a heavily upgraded 750 cc engine that reaches 115 hp, Devore’s CR750 stands as a testament to both motorsport history and personal commitment.
Gordon Olliff’s Rango
Gordon Olliff’s Rango is a hand-fabricated chopper that pays tribute to the art of transformation. Starting with a 1986 Harley-Davidson FXR, Rango now features a redesigned frame with pistachio green accents and a Harley-Davidson Big-Twin engine. Every detail was crafted over eight months, culminating in a minimalist, steampunk-industrial style. Olliff’s creation features a novel vertical headlamp and a clutter-free aesthetic, embodying the dedication and vision of a true custom motorcycle designer.
Get ready for an exhilarating three-day showcase of innovation and artistry at the Handbuilt Motorcycle Show in Austin, Texas. From reimagined classics to futuristic designs, this event features over 150 one-of-a-kind motorcycles, celebrating craftsmanship and creativity in the world of custom builds. Join fellow enthusiasts as we explore unique rides that push the boundaries of design and performance.
The Essence of the Handbuilt Show
The Handbuilt Show is a grand celebration of motorcycles as a medium for artistic expression. Founded by Alan Stulberg of Revival Cycles and sponsored by BMW Motorrad, this year’s event showcases a diverse array of custom builds. The show attracts over 25,000 attendees, transforming the Austin American-Statesman venue into a hub of creativity and innovation.
Aurora: The Spanish Reimagination
Aurora by Antonio Schefle epitomizes a stunning blend of classic and modern engineering. Featuring a 1993 BMW Airhead engine, this café racer boasts a contemporary design with performance enhancements that ensure a blazing top speed of 130 mph. Aurora’s appeal lies in its meticulous craftsmanship, including a custom frame, Porsche-inspired seat, and sleek Kevlar and fiberglass elements.
Krauser Domani: A Legacy of Champions
The Krauser Domani is a testament to Michael Krauser’s expertise, carrying the legacy of a champion racer. Constructed with the frame and chassis by Louis Christen Racing, this three-wheeler sports an intercooled turbo engine, achieving speeds of up to 140 mph. With its distinctive fiberglass body, the Domani embodies the pioneering spirit of BMW’s “Flying Brick” lineage.
SR1: A Tribute to Vision
The SR1 by Jimmy Messina represents a profound vision of modern V-twin café racers. Built around a Buell X1 motor, this bike showcases the innovative design of a late visionary. Crafted with aeronautical-grade aluminum, it serves as a powerful tribute and a template for future customizable and lightweight roadsters.
Project Legacy One: Safety Meets Futurism
Created by Khanh Vu, Project Legacy One merges innovation and safety. Drawing inspiration from cyberpunk and Tron, this electric motorcycle is equipped with advanced features such as cameras for enhanced visibility and integrated LED lighting. Developed as part of an Industrial Design thesis, it encapsulates the future of safer motorcycle designs.
1973 CR750: The Honda Legend
Dalton Devore’s 1973 CR750 pays homage to Honda’s illustrious racing heritage. Featuring original parts and a powerful 750 cc engine, this bike has undergone a five-year transformation to meet motorsport specifications. An iconic design, it showcases Honda’s legacy with an upgraded performance to stand out in races.
Rango: Chopper Masterpiece
Rango, created by Gordon Olliff, is a masterpiece of chopper craftsmanship. With a Harley-Davidson Big-Twin engine and unique aesthetic touches like a pistachio-green frame and custom metalwork, Rango embodies a striking steampunk-industrial look. This bike is unparalleled in its dedication to detail and artistic vision.
