Trade Profile: Harry’s Custom Bikework

“I came out from Germany because there is much more space here, riding weather all year in Australia, and not as many rules and regulations as over there in Germany,” said Harry.

Harry has been working on Harley-Davidsons for more than 20 years, some with H-D dealerships, some with custom shops, but mostly by himself. “Because I have to work for a living I would rather do something I really enjoy,” said Harry. He runs a one-man-show fixing and modifying Harley-Davidsons. He reckons he does not get rich from it but it makes a living. “If I want to get rich I would run a whorehouse.”

Harry likes to do quality work and use quality parts, which are very important to him. Most of the work he does himself so he knows it is up to his expectations. “Some of the work, like painting, etc, I send out to other places, but I have used them for years and they do quality work.”

Harry frequently goes overseas to visit suppliers and trade shows to find out about new products on the market long before they are in Australia. “My shop is not a big retail outlet. I have parts in stock and I can sell them cheaper because I do not have much overheads. I can also get my hands on many unusual parts for a customer as I am a direct importer of Drag Specialties, Jammer Cycle Products, W&W Cycles, Paughco, Custom and Obsolete Motorcycle Accessories, and many European made parts. I am in contact with most wholesalers in Australia so it does not take to long to get parts in.”

The bikes Harry works on in his workshop are the ones people ride. “I think that’s what a bike should be used for, not only to show off and wank over.”

Harry’s shop has all the latest equipment to do your modifications and custom work, so look him up if you’ve got any special projects you want help with.

Harry is open Monday to Friday because he wants to have a life as well as catching up with people on runs and parties. If you can’t drop off your bike in that time, ring him and he can arrange something.

Harry rides a cool-looking rigid Harley-Davidson Shovel with 20-inch apes and this bike he has owned for many years, so he reckons he will not ever get rid of it, or sell it.