2005 Harley Road King

What was your intended objective when you started the build?

As a veteran I wanted a bike that made a statement. I wanted a bike that said “Thank You” to all veterans. I wanted a bike that made people stop and reflect on our country, our Flag, our freedoms and the veterans that make it all possible

What motivated you to start your project?

I build and/or restore bikes as a hobby. I decided I wanted to build a “Patriotic” themed bike.

What was the most unique and creative thing you did to the bike?

I have seen a lot of beautiful bikes in my travels. Many are much more detailed than my bike, but I feel it “holds it own” due to the unique paint scheme and the creativeness of the artist.

What are you most proud of?

The overall bike is my design. The object of the design was to appear as if a flag was draped over the bike. The artist gave me the design I was trying to achieve.

What do other people say about your motorcycle?

What others say about the bike is what makes the bike and the project all worth while. I have total strangers approach me initially commenting on the bike, but the conversation will quickly shift to a personal story. It might be over a love one in the military or someone they know that served. At times, it will be a fallen hero. I am always so honored to have them share their story. I will stand and talk as long as they want. No matter what time schedule I am on, my time becomes theirs as long as they wish to share their story. I am fully aware it is because of the bike. The bike acts as a bridge between myself and a total stranger. The bike becomes  the glue for making a friendships. “What do other people say about my motorcycle”? The real question is – “What is it about the motorcycle, that compels people to share a moment of their life?” Whatever it is, I hope the bike never looses it. The reaction has been so positive I formed Project Patriot Bikes and I exhibit the bikes at veteran appreciate events and other patriotic venues.

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Submitted by: Terry D

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Specifics

Make, Model & Year: 2005 Harley Road King
Fondly known as: Flag Bike
Time spent: More than I planned :)
Motorcycle cost: More than my wife knows
Money spent: A lot more than I want her to know :)
Engine: Stock Harley 88ci
Intake: EFI
Exhaust: Vance and Hines
Transmission: 5Sp
Frame: Stock
Suspension: Rear has been lowered 1 inch and the front lowered 1.5 inch
Wheels, tires and brakes: Rear is a stock — Front is a 21″ spoke
Finish – Paint: The finish on the bike is all air brushed. John Hoover of Hoover AirBrush is the mastermind. I can’t say enough of his work. He has completed 2 bikes for me and is presently painting a 3rd — All Patriotic” themed
Accessories: All the tin (fiberglass) is aftermarket from the fairing to the rear finder.

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