When it comes to custom motorcycle builds, Powerbrick Performance never fails to impress and challenge our expectations. Their latest creation, a heavily modified Harley-Davidson Low Rider S, is a testament to their engineering prowess and bold vision.
What makes this build particularly fascinating is the extreme departure from the original cruiser design. In my opinion, the transformation is a bold statement, showcasing the team's ability to completely reinvent a bike's character.
The Low Rider S, with its powerful Milwaukee-Eight engine, is an unlikely candidate for a cafe racer conversion. Yet, Powerbrick has successfully stripped away its cruiser identity, creating a machine that embraces a whole new personality.
Redefining the Chassis
One of the most striking aspects is the complete rewrite of the bike's chassis geometry. By replacing the low-slung rear section with a custom subframe, they elevated the rear, creating a sleek, traditional cafe racer profile. This not only changes the bike's aesthetics but also the rider's posture, encouraging a more aggressive riding position.
The custom seat, with its clever access to the rear shock absorber, is a brilliant touch, allowing for easy adjustments on the go. This attention to detail and functionality is a hallmark of Powerbrick's builds.
Visual Impact
The rear end of this Harley is a masterpiece. The single-sided swingarm, crafted from billet aluminum, extends the wheelbase, giving the bike a distinctive, elongated look. Combined with the ultra-lightweight Rotobox carbon fiber wheels, it creates a visual contrast that is both striking and functional.
What many people don't realize is that these design choices aren't just for show. The negative space introduced at the back reduces visual weight, improving the bike's overall balance and handling.
Radical Front End
The front end transformation is equally impressive. The stock forks and bulky clamps are replaced with track-ready Öhlins inverted forks, lowering the bike's profile and emphasizing its aggressive stance. The minimalist dash and elite-level controls further enhance the rider's experience, offering a clean and focused cockpit.
Supercharged Power
But the real star of this build is the supercharged Milwaukee-Eight engine. Powerbrick has taken the already formidable V-twin and pushed its performance to new heights. The Rotrex C38 supercharger, with its intricate plumbing and custom covers, is a work of art in itself.
While the supercharger is capable of supporting 300 horsepower, Powerbrick is tuning it conservatively at 250 horsepower, effectively doubling the Low Rider's original output. This conservative approach ensures the bike remains manageable, despite its increased power.
A Supporting Role
Interestingly, the exhaust system, which often takes center stage on custom builds, almost feels like an afterthought here. This is a testament to the overall transformation of the bike, where every component has been carefully considered and integrated into the whole.
Timeless Aesthetics
The colorway, a signature Powerbrick silver and racing red, adds a subtle yet powerful touch. It's a timeless aesthetic that enhances the bike's overall appeal, making it a standout piece even when stationary.
This build's success and quick sale at the Bike Shed London Show prove that Powerbrick's vision for American muscle is not just radical but globally appealing.
In conclusion, Powerbrick's Harley-Davidson Low Rider S cafe racer is a masterpiece of engineering and design. It challenges our perceptions of what a custom build can be and showcases the incredible potential of American iron. This build is a must-see for any motorcycle enthusiast, offering a unique and inspiring take on the classic cafe racer genre.
