Custom 1996 Sportster From Led Sled Is a Bare-Bones Beauty
Barebones is the name of the game for this wicked, dare-to-be different Sportster build.
Standing Out
The vast majority of custom Harley-Davidson motorcycles out there in the world are dressed to the nines, wearing loads of chrome, custom paint, and a whole catalog of parts. But this 1996 Sportster build from Led Sled Customs, recently featured at Hot Bike, is quite the opposite. The shop's owner, Pat Patterson, built this bare-bones ride for his wife, Jen, and it's certainly a standout for its simplicity, which is a big departure from what we typically see in the custom bike world.
Photos: Hot Bike
Custom Bits
Truthfully, there isn't much Sportster left here other than the 883 motor, as just about everything else is completely custom. That includes the handmade frame and springer fork, which is a work of art by itself. Other custom fabbed bits include the rocker boxes, air cleaner, exhaust, rear fender, and gas tank, to name a few.
Photos: Hot Bike
One of a Kind
Patterson also made the bike's handlebars, grips, foot controls, pegs, headlight, taillight, license plate mount, and seat, leaving very little to third-party manufacturers. But if you want to create a truly unique bike these days, that's precisely how you do it.
Photos: Hot Bike
Bare Bodywork
The bare bodywork looks like it's showing signs of wear from a distance. But looking at it up close, it becomes evident that this look was done intentionally. After welding it all together masterfully, Patterson left much of the metal bare to show off his handiwork, then used a combination of plating, powder coating, and polishing to dress it up.
Photos: Hot Bike
Upgraded Powerplant
The 883 cubic-inch mill has been treated to Andrews cams and a carb from CV, as well as that aforementioned custom exhaust. It sends power to the rear wheel via a six-speed Baker gearbox and a chain drive, and given how light this rig is, we imagine that it goes pretty well.
Photos: Hot Bike
Love Letter
The closer you look at this rolling piece of art, the more details you'll see, which is a testament to Patterson's vision, not to mention his affinity for his wife and business partner. His Sportster redo is the ultimate love letter from one Harley enthusiast to another.
Photos: Hot Bike
