This Cool Harley Build Pays Tribute To the Air Force

The perfect tribute to a long-lasting relationship.

By Brett Foote - December 21, 2022
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Appropriate Tribute
1 / 7
American Entity
2 / 7
Obvious Influence
3 / 7
Visual Overhaul
4 / 7
Stock Powerplant
5 / 7
Other Upgrades
6 / 7
Foreign Influence
7 / 7

Appropriate Tribute

The military and Harley-Davidson have long enjoyed a cozy relationship in a number of ways. Harley bikes have played an important role in a number of conflicts around the world, while veterans tend to gravitate toward them both during and after their time in the service. As such, this cool build from Nine Hill Motorcycles is an appropriate tribute to that long-running relationship.

Photos: Nine Hill Motorcycles

American Entity

This particular build started life as a 2008 Harley Softail Rocker, which has since received a total military-inspired makeover and the nickname "Air Force." Interestingly, Nine Hill isn't located in the U.S., however - rather, it hails from Poland, but the folks that run it have long been fascinated with that particular branch of our military.

Photos: Nine Hill Motorcycles

Obvious Influence

Thanks to its matte military green paint job and the familiar logo on the tank, the influence behind this build is pretty obvious. But if that isn't enough, there's also a cool period painting on the rear fender that pays homage to war birds from the past, too.

Photos: Nine Hill Motorcycles

Visual Overhaul

While the Rocker is a pretty rare sight in the world of custom Harleys - it was only produced for three years, after all - this one is a far cry from stock. Aside from its military-inspired visual clues, other additions include a full body kit that totally transforms the way this Rocker looks.

Photos: Nine Hill Motorcycles

Stock Powerplant

The original power plant was essentially left alone, save for the addition of some dress up parts and a new air filter - but it looks fantastic thanks to some incredibly detailing, at least. Regardless, this bike is more about looking good than blowing away the competition at the drag strip.

Photos: Nine Hill Motorcycles

Other Upgrades

Roland Sands provided a host of additional upgrades for this Rocker build, including its controls, the aforementioned air filter, brakes, and pulleys. Pretty much everything else - including the fenders and headlight - were treated to some custom upgrades, along with an extended fork and upgraded swing arm to handle the massive 260 mm rear tire.

Photos: Nine Hill Motorcycles

Foreign Influence

The end result of all that labor is one of the more unique Harley Rocker builds we've ever come across, but it isn't anything outlandish by any measure. Rather, this build is a clean and respectful salute to one particular branch of our nation's military, albeit one that hails from a different part of the world altogether.

Photos: Nine Hill Motorcycles

>>Join in the conversation about this Harley build right here in Harley-Davidson Forums.

For help with your do-it-yourself maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.

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