It’s doesn’t need a tail lamp, and its knobby tires will probably never be put to fight slush, because that ground clearance simply won’t allow. But that’s not the point of these Martini Sporters, as the duo is fondly called by their creators, UK based Shaw Speed & Custom. They are works of art, things of beauty where form triumphs over function.
The base is set with showroom-spec Harley-Davidson XL883, the motors of which were straightaway given the Screamin Eagle upgrades which include new heads, barrels and pistons. They were topped off with new Sportster rocker covers and RSD (Roland Sands Design) Derby covers. The air breathers were also replaced by custom built, camcoat treated pipes.
The “retro cool, scramble-cum-moto style” theme is a throwback to the 1970s. Elements include a custom tank that has been carried over from the shop’s earlier builds; modified a tad to sit on the new chassis, a V-Rod sourced headlight, and RSD handlebars with some machining of the top fork yoke.
Instrumentation has also been minimised, with a small retro style motogadget speedo, sporting an orange needle scanning a white background. The frame has also been slightly modified, while the small, wide and kicked up rear fender is manufactured in house.
The stock wheels were replaced with a pair built in house with Harley-Davidson profile rims, with the rear having to accommodate the wider 180mm section rear tire. The belts also replaced with chains which have been popular with Speed Shop clients in the Sportster market.
Suspension comprises of Ohlins rear dampers,alongside front forks with legs finished in gold to match and fitted with Ohlins internals. The low-lying engine guards come off the XR family, but have been modified and made to fit the XL chassis.
The paint scheme,in evocate Martini livery, is the icing on the cake. It is done up by Image Design Custom the Speed Shops, in recognition of the Martini brand celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2013. One bike is in pearl white with gold, the other in a satin silver.
These bikes take their cues and styling from the 750CC flat trackers of the 60s. they look awesome