Think of iconic Harley-Davidsons, and the Evolution-powered Sportster will spring close to the top of the list. Though popular for multiple reasons, one key aspect that sets them apart is their simple build. This makes customization a breezy affair, which is why builders around the world continue to use them as their canvas, even after the MoCo discontinued these last year.
A fitting proof of this comes from Texas-based Colt Wrangler Motorcycles. Popular for its top-of-the-line sheet metal work, the shop recently transformed an old-school Sportster into a unique stripped-down beast. It marks the perfect match-up of American craftsmanship and American engineering, which is so good, the build even won an American award. Let’s dive in.
The Custom Harley-Davidson Sportster Flexes Hand-Fabricated Components All-Around
In its stock form, a 1999 Harley-Davidson Sportster paints the picture of a no-frills cruiser, courtesy of its simple elements like spoke wheels, a teardrop tank, and long fenders. But none of that remains here, as this custom example embodies a street-tracker. To achieve this, Colt has replaced the stock bodywork with hand-fabricated components built in-house. Gone is the curvy fuel tank and in comes an edgy, indented unit that flows down to a bespoke motocross-like rear end.
Meanwhile, the seat pan houses a flat leather saddle. Once aboard it, you’ll also appreciate the custom flat-track-inspired handlebar, new toothed foot levers, and the knurled clutch lever. There’s no instrument cluster to tell you the necessary information, however.
Besides this, you’ll find ample attention to detail here. For instance, all exposed wires have been relocated inside the chassis while the battery moves from its original place to under the swingarm. The latter has helped free up space under the seat to create a nice see-through aesthetic.
A closer look also reveals a deep bronze finish on the double-downtube chassis, alongside a gleaming gold finish on the chain, brake caliper, sprocket screws, and rear master cylinder under the footrest. All this creates a likable contrast with the plain aluminum tank and seat pan which Colt left as is since he doesn’t want to cover his handiwork. Pretty svelte if you ask us!
The Custom Harley-Davidson Sportster Also Has Overhauled Mechanicals
No matter how good the design, it has to be backed by matching mechanicals. And Colt has done just that. Up top, the stock chassis gusset makes way for a new tubular steel neck, paired with new engine mounts. This helps fit a custom oil tank, right in front of the engine, between the chassis downtubes. You also get a set of lathed telescopic forks that house a 19-inch seven-spoke alloy wheel (inspired by vintage Harley-Davidson models) in between.
At the opposite end, the custom Sportster sheds its OEM box-type swingarm in favor of a top-shelf Trac Dynamics unit. This paves the way for custom, gas-charged shock absorbers and a 19-inch wheel (same as the front). In addition, Cole has replaced the stock rear brake with a Brembo master-cylinder-caliper combo from a Ducati, complete with steel-braided lines and a Lyndall rotor. Wondering why such extravagance? Well, that’s because there are no front brakes on this Sportster, so the maker wanted to make sure the rear stood up to the job.
Like all else, the Sportster has notable upgrades to the powerhouse as well. The crown jewel here is a hand-welded exhaust system with custom headers and slash-cut tips. It joins hands with a new carb setup and velocity stacks to maximize performance from the not-so-spirited Evolution 1,200cc V-twin. Now, this won’t do wonders to the 60-odd horsepower, but given the stripped-down avatar, we expect the custom Sportster to be considerably faster. Not to mention, the raised stance (courtesy of the 19-inch wheels) will inspire more confidence for all kinds of fun.
Can You Buy This Custom Harley-Davidson Sportster?
Colt Wrangler Motorcycles hasn’t shed light on the matter. But we do know the motorcycle recently won the best build award at Roland Sands’ Dream Build-Off in the over 1,200cc category. So it won’t be a surprise if Colt wants to keep the Harley close to his heart. Still, we suggest you get in touch with the shop to get a quote. Or just make an offer Colt can’t refuse and try your luck. After all, if you somehow get this, all eyes will be on you at all times.
A Brief History Lesson About The Harley-Davidson Sportster
Introduced in 1957, Harley-Davidson’s Sportster is one of the most iconic monikers in the two-wheeler world. It has been on continuous sale for over 65 years, currently comprising the Nightster 975 and the Sportster S in the lineup. Though these take the Sportster legacy forward into modern times, the real credit for the Sportster’s popularity still goes to the old ‘XL’ models. Available in either an 883cc or a 1,200cc trim, these promised a complete American cruiser experience, alongside an unmatched thump, without the complexities of modern motorcycles. They were affordable too, which only made their case better. For more details, here are five things we’d miss about the Evo-powered Sportsters.