If the world of mass-produced stock motorcycles bores you; if you’re craving more chrome or carbon or artistic paint schemes offered in the regular manufacturer’s lineup; if you simply want to ride a motorcycle that you won’t see anyone else riding, and long for something completely unique, then perhaps the Born Free Motorcycle Show (BF7) is your jam. Tucked away in the Orange County Hills, the event took over Oak Canyon Ranch for the weekend of June 27 and 28. For the second year in a row, the 2015 Born Free Motorcycle Show has expanded from one day to two, giving custom chopper enthusiasts more time to pore over the hundreds of exceptional one-off machines.
What is Born Free? Watch this classic episode of On Two Wheels from the Motorcyclist YouTube channel, featuring Born Free co-founder Grant Peterson.
Twenty-five invited builders each brought a custom creation, as did hundreds of other fabricators. Engines range from Harley, Honda, Indian, Triumph, BSA and other manufacturers, with a strong lean towards vintage models. Custom welded frames and fabricated details and bodywork are king, featuring materials like carbon fiber, bronze, Lucite, and wood. One bike featured insects incorporated into its shifter and tank, while another sported a real fur racing “stripe” stretching from tank to tail. Finishes varied from brushed (or machined) metal to glittery rainbow striped paint to chrome etched in filigree.
After perusing the field of imaginative two-wheeled (and three-wheeled) designs, spectators can purchase parts at the AMCA regional swap meet, or from vendors such as Chopper Dave, Pangea Speed, Vance & Hines, and many others to kickstart their own custom build. Plenty of moto-themed goods can be purchased, from helmets to leathers to boots, bags, and jewelry. And if by chance you get overwhelmed with choppers, bobbers, diggers and lowriders, the people watching is worth the $10 admission all in itself.
