“The Smokin’ Cone” is a jaw-dropping build by Spreadcheese Fab that’s as spicy as it sounds. This 1973 Harley-Davidson FX1200 is a true masterpiece that will leave you craving for more. Inspired by rubbery art, punching cones, and a lotta spice, James Sinclair hand-crafted this all-aluminum bodied beast without a real plan. But like any night on the devil’s lettuce/jazz cabbage/skunkweed/green goddess/alfalfa sprouts, things got wildly out of control in the best way possible.
A Build That Started with a Spark
The story behind “The Smokin’ Cone” is as intriguing as the bike itself. It all began with a simple idea: to create something unique from what was readily available. In the words of the builder, “I used this bike because it was the bike that I had… The build snowballed completely.”
Magic Mushrooms and Drag Bikes: A Unique Inspiration
Every great build has an inspiration, and for “The Smokin’ Cone,” it was a blend of magic mushrooms, drag bikes, and the artistic style of Russell Murchie. This unconventional mix of influences set the stage for a motorcycle that would defy expectations.
The Heart of the Build: The Rear Wheel
One glance at this Harley-Davidson FX1200, and your eyes will undoubtedly be drawn to the rear wheel. It’s not just a wheel; it’s the centerpiece of the entire build. A Weld Pro Star wheel with a front runner from an old drag car creates a striking visual and performance upgrade. To lower the bike even further to the ground, the swingarm was swapped out for a round-style version from an earlier model, meticulously reinforced and molded to perfection.
The Artistry of Aluminum Bodywork
One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of “The Smokin’ Cone” is the handcrafted aluminum bodywork. Shaping flat sheets of aluminum into the seductive curves you see on this bike is no small feat. The builder estimates investing over 200 hours in this art form, and the result is nothing short of breathtaking.
A Symphony of Modifications
This build is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. Every single piece on the motorcycle has been modified in some way or another. From custom foot pegs and peg mounts to unique exhausts, oil tanks, and even a removable chromed country bar in the frame, no detail was overlooked. The rocker C front wheel harmoniously matches the five-spoke rear wheel, while the five-spoke front rotor complements the wheel beautifully.
Hand Engraving: Where Art Meets Engineering
If you think the attention to detail stops at modifications, you’re in for a surprise. The builder spent an impressive 25 hours hand engraving various parts, including the ignition cone, kicker cover, top triple clamp, and neck of the frame. It’s where art meets engineering, and the result is a true masterpiece.
The Heartbeat of the Machine
Beneath the stunning exterior lies a powerhouse. The engine has been rebuilt with Wiseco high-compression pistons and 80-cube Evo flywheels and rods, a departure from the original 74-cube configuration. An Andrew’s AB grind cam keeps the valves in perfect rhythm, while a Daytona Twin Tec electronic ignition ensures reliability. To top it off, a steering damper upfront provides stability during those thrilling rides.
A Blazing Beast
“The Smokin’ Cone” by Spreadcheese Fab oozes passion and creativity, and the endless possibilities of custom builds. From end-to-end, this bike is ablaze with intricate detailing and hours of effort. With its unique inspiration, meticulous craftsmanship, and a touch of artistic flair, this spicy cone shovel is a feast for the senses and a roaring presence in the custom motorcycle world.