Garage Builder: Alex Forsythe

British Customs: When did you start riding?
Alex Forsythe: Probably around 8 years old

BC: What was your first bike?
AF: An early 70s Honda Trail 70 minibike

BC: What is your background/interest in motorcycle customization? Family hobby, self-taught, trained pro, etc?
AF: My family had a cabin in Big Bear for many years when I was a kid. We were constantly tinkering with these late 60s, early 70s trail bikes. They always had issues with the cold and everything so getting them to run was a fun challenge. I still have 2 69’ Honda trail 90’s in matching yellow. That led to always wanting to work on bikes and have fun making them my own. I eventually got a 74’ Honda CB550 that I put some work into, it made me learn quite a bit more about the engine. Other than that its mostly just for fun, making the bike my own style.

BC: What is your inspiration when wrenching on or designing your bike?

AF: I’m pretty heavily influenced by vintage style. My record shop focuses on 70’s stereo equipment, something about the design from that era is so much more appealing. When I decided to get the Triumph it was largely because they still have the same classic look from the 70’s. I think the first thing I did to it was throw the brown BC slammer seat on there knowing that would give it more of a ‘classic’ look. Like an old Porsche or something. I constantly get the “what year is your Triumph” question, its pretty funny to answer with 2014.

BC: What things outside of motorcycling inspire you?

AF: Music is my big one. My life pretty much revolves around it, and I guess I’d be a pretty crappy record shop owner if it didn’t. Also love home and space design. Merchandising my shop and making it look new and fresh in different ways is really enjoyable. I love when a customer comes in and gets inspired to maybe make some changes in their home design because of what I’ve done in the shop. I’ve had a few clients trust me to put together a vintage audio system and work it into their home design. The end product is so satisfying.

BC: What are your goals in the coming year?
AF: Bigger rides! Currently planning a San Francisco ride along the coast and a ride across Spain.

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