Custom Shovelhead Meshes Function and Form
‘The Wrench’ Shovelhead build hearkens back to a time when machines were, well, mechanical.
In the old days, the world of machinery was much different. People didn’t care about silly things like styling and design – only function. Machines were built to perform a certain task, and that’s all that mattered. And things like motorcycles were simple, functional, and easy to work on. Over the years, form and modern technology have largely taken over. Which is exactly why Slovenian builder MG Customs dreamed up this incredible throwback Shovelhead build.
Dubbed “The Wrench,” this 1980 Harley Shovelhead now looks more like something out of a steampunk film than a modern motorcycle. And that’s all by design. The crew at MG wanted to make something that paid tribute to the bygone era when motorcycles and their owners enjoyed a more intimate relationship. The same people that owned and rode them also worked on them, sharing a special bond that went far beyond just riding.
That means you won’t find any unnecessary shrouds or covers here – only exposed mechanicals. That includes the 1200cc Shovelhead, exposed jockey shifter linkage, and other inner workings. And yet, the fit and finish are second to none. And despite the bike’s obvious nod to the past, there are some modern touches mixed in as well. Just look at that beautifully constructed exhaust and custom paint and graphics.
In the old days, the relationship between man and machine was much like one between two people. It took constant maintenance and careful thought. If you did something the bike didn’t like, it would let you know. Often in less than pleasant ways. But instead of giving up or finding a new hobby, you went right back and made it work. And this incredible build captures that bygone era perfectly.
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