For a Fred Kodlin custom bike, the BRD features surprisingly few Fred Kodlin parts, especially at a time when Fred promotes several completely new part lines for Twin Cam motorcycles. Beside the fairing and the 26-inch front fender, the fork tubes and front indicator brackets are now available, as are the Thriller billet grips. But Fred's workshop rolls out new custom bikes every week, most of which are heavily equipped with new Thriller and Mesh-style parts. So why not take some advice (and parts) from old friends like Paul Yaffe, Ted Sands, and Arlen Ness? Ness probably has the widest range of bagger parts available because in the USA, H-D-based touring bikes are a much bigger market than in Europe. Deep-cut floorboards and passenger pegs offer grip and comfort for the long haul, and the Ness tailend is almost mandatory. Controls are Performance Machine and the rear suspension Legend Air.
Fred did a great job of cleaning up the bike with taillights and indicators integrated into the saddlebags, smoothing out all the lines and details and securing the artistic skills of one of Germany's rising stars of airbrush art: Marcel Sinnwell. The basic paintjob is reminiscent of Fred's new parts designs. Marcel Sinnwell then took over for the detailed matte grey/black, tattoo-style artwork and added extensive pinstriping. Marcel has recently inked the art on Custom Chrome's '10 Custom FXD with Kodlin parts. The amount of detail is stunning and there is always something new to be found on the fairing, tank, and rear sections.
The name BRD is a bit of a compliment and competition for Fred's Hamster friend, Paul Yaffe, who also helped on the project with advice. "Since Paul named some of his parts range Bagger Nation, I decided to name my own Bagger accordingly," explains Fred with a grin. "BRD stands for Bagger Republic Deutschland!"
The bike was finished for presentation at the Custom Chrome Europe dealershow in March 2010 but will see extensive action and miles on European and American roads. Both Magic Bike Ruedesheim in the scenic Rhine Valley and Harley-Butts at the Spanish Llorett del Mar will see the bagger prowling along. Sturgis' 70th anniversary is on the list as well as the must-see European Bike Week at Lake Faak. "But the main purpose of the bike will be riding!" says Fred. And that's really nothing new.