RIPPER It all started when Motorcycle Missions gathered the group of veterans to discuss the direction they were going with the bike before wasting no time on disassembly. The bike was stripped down bolt for bolt, and the frame was modified to accommodate the new Shade Tree Fabrication fender and seat. A new reducedlength Paughco springer was installed, and the frame and swingarm were refinished with a fresh coat of gloss-black powdercoat and the engine repainted. The bike was outfitted with Arlen Ness 10-gauge wheels, rotors, air cleaner, and points cover, and the wheels donned a fresh set of MT90s courtesy of Pirelli. A 2-inch BDL open primary, Zipper’s Performance chain conversion kit, MagnaFlow Riot exhaust, Motogadget grips and mirrors courtesy of Revival Cycles, Brass Balls Keg risers, Motone gas caps, Performance Machine hand controls and front brake, and a Low Brow Customs WX split gas tank modernized the look. The custom leather seat is by Matt Hurtado of Working Man’s Customs, and the sleek metal tank strap displays the different units that each veteran belonged to. “We made it personalized to us and to represent the guys that helped build this bike,” Major John Lawton explained. “It’s a way to get together with other like-minded people and heal through motorcycles.” Motorcycle Missions uses their ride and wrench programs to help veterans and first responders mitigate their PTSD symptoms. They give the participants hands-on instruction from start to finish as a means of helping them cope with their PTSD and to help build long-lasting relationships around two wheels. They also offer motocross camps that teach them how to ride. Air Force veteran Josh Schull says it’s all about the camaraderie. “It’s been very helpful in a lot of ways,” he said. “Being with other veterans again and that camaraderie that we have… That’s something you don’t get anywhere else, and that’s really what I enjoy the most.” The new owner and lucky winner of the bike, Coast Guard veteran Jeff McCoy, says he plans to take the bike to different bike shows around the country to raise awareness about PTSD and veteran suicide. Special thanks to our build sponsors Voodoo Vintage and Cycle Refinery of Austin, Texas. To see more about what Motorcycle Missions does for veterans and first responders through its ride and wrench programs, and to donate, please visit motorcycle-missions.org, Instagram @motorcyclemissions, and Facebook: Motorcycle Missions. HB
52 / HOTBIKE.COM
