Massow Concept Cycles

Jaguar: The Leaper built

Night Shadow Frame: Steel tubular one off rigid perimeter frame designed and fabricated at Polar Cycles.

Mechanicals primarily sourced from eBay, 1997 Buell S3 Thunderbolt outfitted with a Sportster-based V-Twin 1200cc engine. The components were refurbished as necessary before being installed in a one-off custom oil in frame hardtail, frame constructed from Steel Tubing and complemented by a passel of bespoke parts.

Working with professional computer illustrators to create the visual image, Barend then worked alongside a sculptor to make a mould and fabricate a glass-fibre fairing to curvaceously cover the mechanical side of matters.

Although the initial idea was to have the coachwork formed from chrome-plated copper, this notion was later dropped as a weight-saving measure. It was then a case of detailing the unique machine through embellishment of the distinctive Buell rolling stock (17-inch rims mounting Avon 120/70 ZR rubber up front and 170/60 aft) and fitment of custom seat cover in stingray hide, custom exhausts, custom foot and hand controls, wiring loom, multi-coloured neon lighting, etc.

The intimidating jungle cat's head cleverly incorporates a headlamp along with a quartet of magnetic mandibles that can be readily removed should circumstances dictate.

Copious coats of glossy black lacquer paint provide a classy finish to the 3-year project.