For those living in the US, it’s quite surprising to learn that Shaw Speed And Custom , the custom wing of UK based Shaw Harley-Davidson, has built over 80 modified Harley-Davidson bikes since opening its doors only five years ago. And I am not talking about fast “decorative bolt-on” jobs, but full customized Harleys requiring those factory bikes to be stripped down to bare frame. Creations always based on the donor Harley frame, engine and transmission, very often receiving geometry and performance enhancements. Because of tough EU regulations regarding customs, retaining a Harley title is extremely important for most clients, pushing many builders to center their business on modifying factory motorcycles. Hence, the number of european bike shows with a large “modified Harley” class.

The Shaw Speed crew in charge of customizing this used 2010 Sportster Forty Eight took inspiration from Steve McQueen’s 1964 Triumph TR6 motorcycle and 1971 Husqvarna 400 Cross. Creative lead was to produce a stylistic fusion of both models, not forgetting to “stamp” the result with a 278, McQueen’s racing number. The XL was stripped of all its parts and hardware, all welds and mounting points were shaved, unnecessary brackets cut off, then a caddy was fabricated to be installed under the engine to hold both ECM & regulator. A mockup of the electrical system was performed to know where to drill the frame for a full internal wiring system during final assembly.

The drum brakes are a very appealing part of this off-road, retro style Sportster Cross. Shaw Speed & Custom used Honda brakes, in front 1964 Honda 250 four race bike, and in the rear a drum brake from a 1967 Honda 500 Four. Aluminum wheels were laced with stainless spokes and dressed with 180 mm Continental Twinduro tires. Fine detailing include a speedo housed in an aluminum housing mounted to the steering stem bolt. The forks rotated 180 degrees to later accept the drum front brake. One-off engine guards. Vintage 7/8” motocross bars. Magura levers and original vintage grips. RSD covers to match the timer and derby cover. Burley pegs. Ohlins rear shocks. Beehive style air breather. Gas tank is genuine Harley-Davidson on which sit a cool Italian made gas cap (brand unknown). Notice that to keep the bike competition like (at least on these pictures, before getting a more street dress), there is no headlight or indicators, only a taillight. Paint job by Image Design Custom. Full tech sheet is below. Shaw Speed And Customs.

Bike XL1200X Sportster 48 (Pre owned) 2010 model

Frame Stock HD

Forks Stock HD modified

Swingarm Stock HD

Engine Stock HD 1200cc

Transmission Stock HD

Drive converted chain and sprocket conversion

Fuel tank HD

Seat SS&C

Number boards and frame covers etc SS&C

Handlebars Aftermarket

Grips Aftermarket

Brake/clutch levers Magura

Brake Drums Honda

Rims Aluminium

Tyres Continental Twinduro

Rear fender SS&C

Front fender SS&C

Air Breather aftermarket

Sprocket cover RSD

Derby Cover RSD

Timer cover RSD

Rocker Covers Stock HD polished

Exhaust Zero exhaust systems

Fueler Scream Eagle HD

Cables SS&C

Rear Suspension Ohlins

Front Internals Aftermarket

Fuel Cap Rizoma

Custom Paint Image Design Custom UK

Frame Powder coated