Photography by Cordero Studios
Collection Gift Guide: Chop-Chop
December 1, 2004
COVINGTON'S CYCLE CITY
Pushing boundaries even in the custom world,
commissioning a “ground up” bike represents the pinnacle of motorcycle customization. It requires a meticulous blend of skills, engineering, and imagination, all orchestrated to create a rolling work of art.
Jerry Covington–a master craftsman and respected builder–embraces each
client’s vision with the credo that an outstanding motorcycle must be a great
performer that also has character and soul.
To accomplish that end, Covington relies on a nearly fanatical attention to detail; he sees even the smallest modification as an opportunity to balance
style with practical concerns such as ride and reliability. The exceptional example shown here proves that a radical posture does not have to inhibit handling abilities; perfected rake and trail along with precise geometric calculations provide a bike that will track well and supply a confident ride. Starting
with the fundamentals, its frame was handbuilt to exact customer dimensions and incorporates a state-of-the-art air ride suspension. Flawless clearance and tolerance issues were refined as Legend’s top-shelf system adapts to the
bike’s every move and vibration; with a flip of a switch it can be raised for
comfort or lowered to reduce seat height.; function voidFunc() { } voidFunc();)
The bike’s centerpiece is a dynamic, balanced, and blueprinted billet 113 cu
in Patrick Racing engine. Induction is through 45 mm Mikuni carburetors, a
clever combination and a good choice for plenty of power to turn the stocky 280 rear tire. Weight mass is centralized in the frame with a right-side-drive, Baker 6-speed that significantly contributes to light, balanced handling. The sleek front end is a one-piece billet Goldammer G Force, polished to a mirror
finish, complementing unique handlebars that were made to order for this bike. Wiring runs internally through the bars, and artistic Covington style conceals brake lines. (Click image to enlarge); function voidFunc() { } voidFunc();)
Extraordinarily crafted, each aspect of the Covington is done right, whether
it be fender undercoating or steel inserts to prevent paint-on-paint crime.
Exhaust pipes manufactured in-house were designed expressly for this build. The
4-gallon gas tank came to life through an intense labor process in which flat sheets
of metal were pounded into bold, graceful contours. Top-of-the-line Performance Machine brakes were used front and rear. Covington manufactured the
Gladiator wheels and rotor in-house, adding another level of cool. Hand-sewn by Danny
Gray, an ostrich seat fits perfectly as if it were molded into the bike, another one-off feature that underscores the bike’s inherent style. (Click image to enlarge)
As each project unfolds, Covington remains in continual communication with
the client for ongoing feedback. It is an innovative approach, but not unexpected from a shop with such high standards for components and craftsmanship.
Attitude is nothing if you can’t back it up, and the dramatic lines on this
bike, combined with functional performance, create an awe-inspiring motorcycle. Sometimes objects are cooler than they appear. Prices for custom Covingtons
start at $75,000.
Covington’s Cycle City
580.256.2939
www.covingtonscyclecity.com
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