Take a long look again at this thing:
Notice the curve of the fenders- it would have been the obvious thing to follow the rim, but instead they tuck the back edge of the fenders (front as well as back) into the curve a bit. It gives a striking, balanced feel to both wheels, that customs rarely have. Most customs are spindly in the front, and stupidly fat at the back.
Now look at the gray sandblasted frame spars. Those things are as big as the the supports on the Golden Gate Bridge, and the different surface treatment subtly enhances that image of incredible strength. Sure, the tank hides most of it, but it's still there.
Take a look at the way chrome is used on the bike. It isn't indiscriminate. They chrome the headlight the girder forks, and then a flow of elements across the bottom- the head cover, the pipe, and the swingarm. This again emphasizes the power delivery of the bike, without resorting to any stupid 300 series rear tire to make a point.
It all subtle design cues, while at the same time being so imposing that it's hard to ignore.
I've only seen one on the road, and I have to admit that I stared at it for a very long time.
miles
