The world of custom motorcycles never ceases to amaze, and Powerbrick Performance has once again pushed the boundaries with their latest creation. Taking a 2025 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S, a bike known for its West Coast cruiser style, and transforming it into a supercharged cafe racer is a bold move, to say the least.
What makes this build truly remarkable is the complete departure from the original design. Timothy Somers and his team at Powerbrick have a knack for reducing motorcycles to their essence, as seen with their BMW K1100RS streetfighter. But this time, they've ventured into uncharted territory by tackling American iron.
The Low Rider S, with its Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, is a beast of a bike, delivering an impressive 114 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. However, it's typically associated with a laid-back cruiser aesthetic. Powerbrick's challenge was to break free from this stereotype and create a high-performance cafe racer.
The key to this transformation lies in the chassis geometry. By replacing the factory rear section with a custom CNCPT subframe, they've lifted the rear, creating a classic cafe racer silhouette. This isn't just a cosmetic change; it's a fundamental shift in ergonomics, positioning the rider in a forward-leaning, aggressive stance. The attention to detail is remarkable, with the custom Alcantara and leather seat providing a subtle yet functional design element for shock adjustment.
The rear end is a work of art, featuring a breathtaking single-sided swingarm crafted from billet aluminum. This not only extends the wheelbase but also adds a sense of elegance and negative space to the traditionally bulky Harley design. The lightweight Rotobox carbon fiber wheels further enhance the bike's visual appeal and performance, ensuring it can handle corners with precision.
The front end has undergone an equally dramatic change, swapping the conventional forks for Öhlins inverted units, paired with CNCPT triple trees and clip-on handlebars. This setup not only improves handling but also contributes to the bike's aggressive posture. The minimalist Koso digital dash and high-end Brembo components elevate the overall riding experience, offering both style and substance.
However, the real showstopper is the supercharger. Powerbrick has equipped the Milwaukee-Eight motor with a Rotrex C38 system, a daunting task that involved extensive engineering. The custom covers and polycarbonate windows showcase the upgraded internals, while the intricate plumbing ensures the supercharger's efficiency. With a conservative tune targeting 250 horsepower, this bike is a powerhouse, doubling the original output.
While the exhaust system might be overshadowed by the supercharger, it's a work of art in its own right. The custom stainless steel drag-pipe-style exhaust pipes add to the bike's raw, aggressive character.
In my opinion, what sets this build apart is the seamless blend of performance and aesthetics. Powerbrick's signature silver and racing red colorway not only looks stunning but also hints at the bike's speed, even when stationary. The fact that this unique creation was snapped up by a private collector before the Bike Shed London Show ended is a testament to its global appeal and the studio's innovative vision.
This bike challenges our preconceptions of what a Harley-Davidson can be. It's a fusion of American muscle and European cafe racer culture, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in custom motorcycle engineering. Personally, I find it exhilarating to witness such a radical transformation, and I can't wait to see what Powerbrick comes up with next.
