Xel Customs Builds the Anti-Bagger Bagger
Most baggers these days are incredibly over-the-top, but this 2015 Road Glide eschews flame throwers and crazy paint for a subtle but awesome look.
1. The "Anti-Bagger" Bagger
It's fair to question if we've simply gone too far with baggers these days. While we admire the theatrics of an air-bagged, flame throwing Harley with a dozen speakers and crazy custom paint, sometimes we just like to see simple elegance. Thankfully, we've got builders like Xel Customs around to help cut through the noise and remind us of what a simple, well-done bagger looks like. Look no further than this tastefully constructed 2015 Road Glide as proof of that.
2. The Art of Subtlety
Xel was founded by a guy named Lex Rivera, who himself worked at various other shops over the years before branching out on his own. But instead of slapping together wild, cookie-cutter rides like many builders, his tastes lean more toward the clean and subtle side of things. Rivera wants people to notice his creations, but not because they're shouting at you for attention.
3. A Minimalist Approach
Look no further than the powerplant on this Harley for a perfect example of Rivera's minimalist approach. You won't find any fancy dress up bits or even a custom exhaust here. In fact, the entire engine itself is stock. And since virtually 100% of Harley buyers these days immediately swap out the exhaust after bringing their new ride home, you could call Rivera a trendsetter just for leaving it alone.
4. Can You Spot the Differences?
Obviously, Rivera didn't just leave everything stock and call this a custom build. The wheels and tires are the most obvious change but don't expect to see the requisite big wheel with a skinny tire up front. Instead, this Road Glide has a fat 180mm tire on both ends. One thing is done share with most bagger builds is a full air ride setup, but that's about it.
5. She's Got the Look
Visual changes are subtle as well, but they're there. A new set of fenders gives the ride a cleaner look. Drag Specialties bags sport custom speaker lids. And Rivera swapped out the handlebars and all the controls. It's just enough of a difference to make this bagger stand out from the crowd, as well as a stock Road Glide. And it's proof that sometimes, less is certainly more.
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