Two Custom Harleys, One Talented Designer

1. Orange Obsession

Judging by the looks of things, you might think that legendary custom motorcycle builder Harold Pontarelli is obsessed with the color orange. But that's about the only thing these two incredible bikes, recently featured in a throwback Hot Bikes feature, share in common. The two were built six months apart, and Pontarelli's intention was never to paint them the same color. It just, well, kinda happened.

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2. Agent Orange

The first bike, dubbed "Agent Orange," is essentially a traditional chopper. But before this build, Pontarelli had developed a reputation for low-slung motorcycles, so the high riding chopper is a bit of a departure from that tradition. Agent Orange rides on a Softail suspension, relying on a long frame and fork tubes instead of a big rake. The chopper also features a 10-inch stretch in the front frame members and 12-inch longer Sullivan fork tubes.

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3. The "Other" Orange Bike

Unlike Agent Orange, Pontarelli doesn't have some cool name for his other creation. But that doesn't mean it isn't every bit as stunning to look at. But unlike Agent Orange, Pontarelli built this bike for a customer - not himself. And this one is much more in line with the look we've come to expect from the builder - low and classy, with a timeless and traditional design.

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4. Beautiful, yet Functional

The look of the "other" orange bike is reminiscent of something from the 30s or 40s, with swoopy fenders and classic design cues. But the owner also requested that it be functional, so polished parts were installed where chrome might normally be used. The fat tired ride sure has enough power to make you want to ride it daily, thanks to a 113-inch S&S mill sitting in the frame.

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5. El-liminator

Interestingly enough, the pair of orange rides weren't Pontarelli's last, either. In 2006, he built this incredible bike, dubbed the "El-liminator," as part of the Discovery Channel's now-defunct Biker Build-Off. Needless to say, the stunning custom bike won the competition and put yet another feather in Pontarelli's cap. Maybe he should stick to the color orange, after all.

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