WR74 Jetster
Sold but still on display at...
Jetster's Backstory
November 2022
WR74 Jetster
Custom Harley WR74ci
1200cc
SOLD
Jetster’s tale takes place following the fall of Dien Bien Phu in 1954 when the 1st US Special Forces Group begins to infiltrate Indochina.
Our story then begins in 1958 when USS Midway returns to the Bay Area Alameda Naval Base. Back in civvy street, some guys decide to imitate their 40’s predecessors and start to radically customise Harley’s WR’s that were then cheap and aplenty…
Forward 60 years… One of these iconic racers is spookily offered to us on a pro bono basis so long as we undertake to restore it to its former glory. As usual, it will then transpire; easier said than done…
As the original WR frame was consumed by rust, we sourced a good replica from Fenland Choppers, thereon extensively worked on by John Parry of Cobra Frames to enable a myriad of vintage body parts to fit snuggly. We then gave the scoot a modern twist by fitting a string of very hi tech parts from Kustom Tech, Beringer Brakes et al, and fitted an EMD 74ci motor for rideability.
The project was curated by HD historian extraordinaire, Ian Borrowman who, aided by engineering guru, Keith Baldwin, fabricated, assembled and took the project to fruition.
Outstanding credit is also due to Tom, Steve and Mandy of Image Custom Design who were able to commendably replicate the style and skill that the great Jeff McCann (RiP) introduced to custom bike painting in the 80’s in close association with the then fledgling Master of our Universe, HRH Arlen Ness, Duke of Oakland & San Leandro.
Technical Specs
General
Design & Build:
Ian Borrowman & Jeff Duval.
Engine
WR74ci (1200cc) replica engine by Ian Borrowman & EMD’s Nicolas Pigeyre.
Hi level 2-1 custom exhaust by engineering guru Keith Baldwin also responsible for very many cool
one off parts.
Transmission
EVO 5 Speed.
Chassis
As original WR frame was consumed by rust, a replica was sourced from Fenland Choppers and thereon extensively reworked by John Parry of Cobra Frames.
Suspension & Steering
Samwell repro Springer Big Twin. Stock length and rake.
Original (very!...) Hard Tail.
Wheels & Brakes
16 x 3.4 chrome Excel rims with TTS stainless spokes.
Brass nipples & Chrome Harley hubs shod with 500x16 Avon SM Mk2 tyres both ends.
Beringer 2AP11 Calipers from its now iconic Classic Range.
Instrumentation
Headlight stock vintage Springer - Taillight Crime Scene Choppers.
Speedhut 4 ½” GPS Speedo!
Bodywork & Seating
Fuel tank Amen style reworked to suit. Rear fender, oil tank & electric box Fenland Choppers
Saddle is genuine WR article.
Ergonomics
Complete brass vintage Kustom Tech hand controls, fabric tape style grips & pegs.
WLA modified handlebars.
Custom Paint
Outstanding credit is also due to Tom, Steve and Mandy of Image Custom Design, Camberley, who were able to commendably replicate the style and skill that the great Jeff McCann (RiP) introduced to custom bike painting in the 90’s.