Garage Builder: Marc Goldbaum

British Customs: When did you start riding?

Marc Goldbaum: I’ve been on and off my friends’ motorcycles for years. Growing up in Southern California, my friends were always going out dirt biking. I would tag along and try to learn a thing or two. I got serious about riding in 2015 when I decided it was time for a bike of my own; something to work on/customize/build/tinker with.

BC: What was your first bike?

MG: My current motorcycle is my first. I never had too much extra cash growing up so when I finally did, I bought a Triumph.

BC: What is your background/interest in motorcycle customization? Family hobby, self-taught, trained pro, etc?

MG: Other than my friends working on their bikes, I had my Grandpa and Uncle as inspiration. Being located in San Diego, they always found themselves down in Baja, California for the dune races, Baja 500/Baja 1000. Triumph was always their brand of choice, taking home quite a few trophies along the way. Since my Grandpa passed before I could really get to know him, buying and riding a Triumph was kinda of my way of connecting with him along with reminiscing in the stories of his racing past times.

When it comes to motors, I’ve always had a fascination. Even though I was born in ’88, the machines of the 60’s always held my attention. From American Muscle to Euro Import, I really did love it all. That passion for classics is what drove me to my first car, 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass S. Truth be told, I wanted a Chevelle but couldn’t afford it. This was close, and still a great car. I guess my addiction to customizing, wrenching, and learning more about motors sprung up after buying the Cutlass. Other than one automotive class in high school, I’m self taught.

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

MG: The bare minimalist style of the bike evolved from my taste in motorcycles. I’ve always been a big fan of naked bikes, brats, bobbers, and pretty much everything else that shows the engine working but also has the slick 60-70’s vibe. This styling obsession is actually how I started my vintage inspired leather company, Gold Tree Pacific. I desperately needed some storage for the bike but nothing that I could find had the style that I wanted. After speaking with other enthusiasts I found that they had the same problem. Thus, a company was born out of an obsession.

BC: What things outside of motorcycling inspire you?

MG: Anything that mixes design and utility I have a strong appreciation for.

BC: What are your goals in the coming year?

MG: I’m always working on my bike, that probably won’t change. I have a few parts sitting in my closet right now that I still need to put on so finishing that up is a goal of mine. Finally launching Gold Tree Pacific is a goal of mine as well, it has been over a year in the making. I hope to share my style with others who see the bikes we ride in same light I do.