By Dana Phio  Courtesy DAXSTREET

Stephan, a Hamburg based rider, discovered his passion for motorcycles later in life. At 34, he obtained his license and purchased a Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight, his first  motorcycle. His love for American V-twins from Milwaukee led him to customize his ride, starting with smaller mods and gradually progressing to more ambitious projects.

After selling his Forty-Eight, Stephan acquired a Softail Slim, which served as a platform for further experimentation. He transformed the Softail into a stylish bobber, marking the beginning of his KustomCave Speedshop venture. Seeking a more classic riding experience, Stephan stumbled upon a 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA.

KustomCave Reimagines 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA into Bobber with Custom Components and Striking Vintage Aesthetic (Horst Roesler)

The wartime survivor underwent a complete transformation into a custom bobber. The hardtail frame was sandblasted and powder coated black, and Stephan tackled other components like the drum brakes, springer forks, and engine covers. The front wheel was replaced with a smaller unit, and both wheels were fitted with retro-style tires.

Most of the original bodywork was removed, but the fuel tank was retained and restored. The KustomCave Harley Davidson WLA is a stunning example of motorcycle customization. Its stripped down bobber aesthetic, combined with custom paintwork and upgraded components, creates a truly unique and eye catching machine.

The vintage style headlight and low rise handlebar complement the custom made rear fender, while the premium brown leather seat pan adds a touch of luxury. Under the hood, the engine has been meticulously rebuilt with high quality components.

A Mikuni carburetor and Fairbanks Morse magneto ignition ensure optimal performance, while the blacked out custom exhaust enhances the bike’s sound and style. The effect is a sleek and powerful motorcycle that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.