There’s nothing more thrilling than seeing a stock bike be transformed into something entirely new. Meet the Blue FXR, a 1992 Harley-Davidson FXR that defies convention and pays homage to the ’90s hot rod Harley style. While its owner may refer to it simply as the “Blue FXR,” this bike is anything but ordinary.
A Blank Canvas with a Rich History
The starting point for this remarkable build was a bare frame from a parted-out Harley, which had met its end with a blown motor. This frame, shipped on a pallet from Queensland, served as the foundation for the Blue FXR’s transformation. The vision began to take shape with the acquisition of a brand new 110ci CVO motor, followed by a robust transmission. From there, the pieces of the puzzle were gathered to create the bike that existed in the builder’s mind.
From Concept to Reality: A ’90s Hot Rod Harley
This wasn’t just another motorcycle build; it was a labor of love and a desire to showcase something that stood out from the crowd. The inspiration for the Blue FXR was clear – a ’90s style hot rod Harley that incorporated ’90s performance parts, a big motor, flake paint, chrome accents, and an undeniably staunch stance. It was a deliberate departure from the current trends in the FXR/Dyna scene, aiming to capture the spirit of a bygone era.
Masterful Paintwork and Inverted Front End
One of the standout features of the Blue FXR is its striking paintwork, executed by the skilled hands of Naz in Canberra. The blue and gunmetal scheme seamlessly carries throughout the bike, showcasing PPG paint and dazzling Paint Huffer 50/50 flake.
Visually, the inverted front end was a must for this build. Darren at DNA Custom Cycles played a pivotal role in achieving this look, utilizing late ’90s R1 forks and triples. The result is a front end that exudes both style and performance.
Innovations Beneath the Surface
The Blue FXR isn’t just about looks; it’s about pushing boundaries beneath the surface too. The rear swingarm received custom bracing, along with a bespoke caliper hanger and brake rod setup. Even the brake line was internally wired through the bracing, showcasing an attention to detail that sets this bike apart.
Additionally, a few New Old Stock Arlen Ness parts from the ’90s were unearthed for the build, including rear fender struts and a license plate holder that had been tucked away in enthusiasts’ stashes for decades.
A Steep Learning Curve and a Wealth of Upgrades
This build marked a significant milestone for the owner, being their first full bike built from scratch. Completed during the COVID pandemic, it was a journey of learning and discovery. Challenges included the twin-cam conversion, adapting and aligning parts, and converting the later-model EFI motor to a carb while sorting out the ignition wiring and sensors.
Every component received an upgrade during the rebuild, resulting in a high-performance masterpiece. Key highlights include a CVO 110ci engine with 255 cams, a Mikuni HSR45 carburetor, a TwinTec Ignition system, and a Delkron transmission case paired with a Barnett Scorpion Clutch.
A Modern Classic Reborn
The Blue FXR represents more than a motorcycle; it’s a fusion of history, style, and innovation. With R1 forks, Works Performance rear shocks, Galfer rotors, and HEL lines, it boasts modern performance while paying homage to the golden era of hot rod Harleys. The Motogadget M-Unit and Motoscope Pro dash handle the bike’s electronic side with precision.
The Blue FXR stands as a testament to the creativity, determination, and passion of its builder. It’s a motorcycle that breaks free from conventions and embraces a bygone era with open arms. With every twist of the throttle, it tells a story of the past and a vision of the future, reminding us that the beauty of custom motorcycles lies in their ability to defy expectations and leave an indelible mark on the road.