Going Apes Softail Springer

The idea was to take a standard Softail Springer and make it look even more old school.

THIS BIKE started as a standard ’91 Softail Springer. We pulled it off the road and fitted a 300 rear-end, swingarm, etc, and six-speed right-side-drive (which you have to do with the wide rear-end).

We tried to keep it as original and old school as we could, so there is no stretch, no rake, in the frame. That’s also why we went with the twisted spoke wheels — there were no mag wheels back then.

We also changed the headlight to achieve the old school look.

The motor has all S&S internals, Pro One lifter blocks, Pro One pushrod covers, ceramic coated pistons. The exhaust system is from the States.

The handlebars, which are 26-inches high, were special ordered. It also required extended clutch and throttle cables.

The paintwork was done by Anthony Carona Bodyworks at Sefton Park. The airbrushing was done by Santino at Art Throb.

All the fabrication was done by Darryl at Farnon Fabrications in Cabramatta. He did all the modifications to the rear guard — fitting the LEDs and recessed number plate — tanks, all the bodywork. He also came up with the idea of welding the rear guard to the swingarm.

Also, Dave at Mild to Wild in Prestons was involved with the project from the start.

Most of the parts on the bike were supplied by Ultimo Australia.

I have ridden the bike about 6000 km now, and although it looks uncomfortable to ride, it’s sensational when you’re moving.