1927 Harley Davidson JD Custom Takes Artistry in Iron Award

Chris Richardson Takes Two
by Jason Giacchino

Even if Discovery Channel and the other cable networks have backed off on the custom motorcycle coverage, don’t for a minute think the scene isn’t alive and well.  Case in point: This year’s Las Vegas Bike Fest that ran from September 29th to August 2nd.  Among the plethora of events, the 8th annual Artistry in Iron Master Builder’s Bike Show caught our attention; an invite only affair consisting of 20 of the hottest custom builders showing off their latest creations to be judged by their peers.

The American Cycle Magazine sponsored event awarded $10,000 for the grand prize, as well as a custom-designed trophy during the VIP award ceremony held for the Artistry in Iron participants. Chris Richardson of Alhambra, California’s LA Speed Shop bagged the prestigious Artistry in Iron Master Builder title for the second year in a row.

“The detail and creativity exhibited on Richardson’s bike impressed all the participants judging the competition,” said Mindi Cherry, Event Manager of Las Vegas BikeFest.  “These are the best of the best builders in the world so the review process is extremely competitive.”

Attendees had the opportunity to admire the Artistry in Iron custom bikes while on display for the public on Friday, Sept. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 1.

“Every year, this contest surpasses my wildest expectations.  The artistry demonstrated by the builders is like nothing I have ever seen,” said Richardson.  “It is truly an honor to be selected as a winner by my peers and I am completely humbled to be compared to this group of talented professionals.”

In addition to the cash prize and trophy, Richardson will receive an invitation to participate at the ninth annual Artistry in Iron competition during the 12th Annual Las Vegas BikeFest Sept. 27-30, 2012.

Richardson claims he was practically born into the garage, having come from a father with a car habit and a grandfather with a train habit before him.  Moving from Schwinns, to go-karts to mini bikes, Chris was restoring a 1961 Chevy Bel Air hardtop at age 15.  His foray into motorcycles kicked off with a 1966 Harley Davidson shovelhead project and he hasn’t looked back since.

The bike he built for this year’s competition began with an original 1927 Harley Davidson JD frame with 1927 dimes integrated into the bike’s backbone.  A replica 1947 Knucklehead engine was installed and the dual gas tanks and springer front-end were handcrafted by Chris himself.  Headcase Kustom Art provided the paint job and Riff Raff leather contributed the custom seat.

Every bike Chris builds reflects his out-of-the-box thinking and his amazing attention to detail.  Chris has earned the respect of his customers and peers as a quality guy who does quality work.

Richardson has seen his bikes featured on the covers of Easyriders, Iron Horse, Dice and Powerglide magazines, among others.  After earning countless awards at motorcycle shows, his latest achievement only further solidifies an already-impressive reputation.  Despite his pattern of success, Richardson reports having been stunned when he was announced the Grand Prize winner for 2011.

The entire process can be viewed photographically via LA Speed’s blog.

1927 JD frame + 1947 Knucklehead Engine =  Shout off in the Forums!