SPEEDSTER

While the Ehinger Kraftrad “Speedster” appears to be the most traditional and least Alt.Custom of our group, in some regards it’s the most high-tech machine in the Custom Revolution exhibition. Uwe Ehinger is no ordinary customizer, and his design methods match or exceed factory practice.

“I develop and build motorcycle parts and motorcycles, starting with 3D simulations of a running engine – complete with stress analyses, just like the car industry. I’ve digitized all Harley parts from 1903 to the present; that’s over 62,000 parts 3D-modeled! When I build an engine, it’s already been worked out in 3D. In the end I’m 95% certain the design will work well. I used to create animation for films, and also studied particle physics and engineering, and I’ve worked with Audi and Porsche, etc.”

The high-tech part of the “Speedster” came in crafting the engine, using 1937 UL crankcases and modified Knucklehead top ends. These parts don’t really mix, and their wonky pushrod angles tell the story, but Ehinger’s computer simulation proved it could be done. He considers engines the heart of his creations, and chose the UL motor for its four cams, the same as Harley racers.

This Speedster was also featured on CycleWorld.

Follow the Builder: Ehinger Kraftrad