Whole Lotta Love: Led Zeppelin-inspired Chopper Heads to Auction
Built way back in 2001, this custom build is still turning heads in 2019.
This wild custom bike isn’t a Harley-Davidson, but it’s got V-twin power–and its name, Zoso, is a reference to one of the greatest rock bands of all time, Led Zeppelin. So, we think you’ll forgive us for this one.
Built in 2001, this Mecum Auctions-bound metallic orange and gold bike came at the height of the custom chopper craze. However, in some ways, it’s still very futuristic-looking.
The bike has almost a hardtail look to it from the right side. That is, until you realize that the rear wheel and fender are floating, seemingly detached from the frame.
From the left side, we can see the superbike-style single-sided swingarm. Another superbike touch is the Ohlins monoshock rear suspension. The shock absorber is seemingly suspended over the transmission case.
Another place where the Zoso may have drawn superbike inspiration is its shape. Each line and curve seems like it was sculpted in a wind tunnel. Instead of looking fast, though, it simply looks beautiful.
That’s not to say that this showpiece isn’t a high-performance machine, though. It’s powered by an 88 cubic inch V-twin engine with Screamin’ Eagle cams and a 42mm Mikuni carburetor. The dramatically-shaped exhaust pipe follows the lines of the motorcycle, integrating itself into the styling, as well as being a functional part.
Up front, the frame was similarly reworked for the sake of style. Here, two spherical bearings replace the steering head for a cleaner look.
This motorcycle is like a piece of rolling artwork. Still, it’s completely DOT legal, and fully equipped for street riding. It’s even got a seat pillon and passenger pegs.
The Zoso was built back in 2001 by Teddy Kimer of Teddies Hotbikes of St. Petersburg, Florida. In 2003 and 2004, it won numerous awards, including “America’s Most Beautiful Bike” and the 2003 Grand National Roadster Show.
It can still turn heads, too. This year, it was awarded Grand Champion of the Full Throttle Magazine Bike Builder Invitational. Now, it’s ready for a new home. The Zoso will be sold at Mecum Auctions’ Harrisburg 2019 sale, which runs from July 31 through August 6 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Photos: Mecum Auctions
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