2002 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Custom - Back From The Dead

James Adian was planning on a coast-to-coast trip but needed a bike that he could travel in comfort on. Long distance riding was something James had always wanted to do, but time wasn't always on his side. A few years back he was involved in a bad motorcycle wreck and after rehabbing his beat up body and mind realized just how short life can be. With that he committed himself to building a bike that would suit his long trip as his other bike wasn't comfortable enough for the trek.

James had the design laid out in his head but needed a bike to accomplish the transformation. He bought a repossessed 2002 Ultra Classic Electra Glide that came with a clear title and straight frame. Immediately after getting the FLHTCUI home James began the tear down process. James then made a list of every feature and accessory he wanted as well as another list of places to order the parts. The guys at Hog Alley in Georgetown, Texas were instrumental in getting everything James wanted and back on the road. This was James' first foray into bike building and in the process became addicted to building bikes. He was pleased with how the bike was turning out and had he known how much enjoyment it brought him he would have started years ago.

In addition to getting all new sheet metal, from the fenders and gas tank to the Drag Specialties' side covers James went crazy when it was time for the motor. His other ride sports a stout 103ci engine and he didn't want to feel like he was riding a caterpillar on a big bike such as the Ultra, so he went for extra displacement. James started with a 120ci kit from Head Quarters that included hot rod heads and cams. When all was said and done the fuel injected monster mill pulled 125hp and 140 lb-ft of torque on the dyno. Harnessing all that power is reserved for a Baker six-speed transmission, clutch, and primary. Up front a six-piston Performance Machine caliper clamps a single PM 13-inch rotor attached to a PM wheel. On the rear is a single four-puck PM caliper and rotor with a matching Torque pulley.

Aside from the eye-catching paint on James' Glide one of the standout features is the taillight setup. James contacted John Hermeling from Cool Taillights and explained that he wanted to blind brain dead cagers to get attention when out on the road. John told James he had previously done a 10-inch taillight and it was really bright. James took that bit of information and told John to make one 16 to 18 inches tall; just to be on the safe side. James and his nephew drew up the lighting design and graphics and then John perfected the ideas and made the lights. James decided upon the cross design because he feels like God had his back during the tough times during and after his terrible accident. James said, "If it weren't for Him, I wouldn't be here."

We 're glad James pulled through the bad times and got to realize his dream bike. It's very evident that James has some skills and a love for building custom baggers. We have to wonder if this will be but the first bike we feature from the mind of James.