Physically imposing yet introverted, reclusive yet fun-loving, Duane Ballard conforms to none of the typical "chopper guy" stereotypes. Family men with tattoos on a fourth of their six-foot-three frames are common as Michael Jackson tributes these days, but Duane's reliance upon and dedication to his family is unique in this age of UFC-charged thuggery. A 20-plus year committment to alcohol-free living and a healthy obsession with '60s and '70s sci-fi only adds fuel to Duane's twisted yet heartwarming fire. 

Name: Duane Ballard

Age: 43

Business: Duane Ballard Custom Leather

Town: Lake Elsinore, CA

Coworkers: My wife Lisa

Riding buddies: Alex, Kutty, Swazi Mike and the Biltwell crew

First time on two wheels: Too young to remember. My father always rode

First hand-built motorcycle: My first ground-up build was my white CB750 Funkenstein

Earliest two-wheeled adventure: Trip with my father and his buddies to northern Arizona

Most recent two-wheeled adventure: Salton Sea—400 miles in 24 hours with overnight camping in the dirt

Current stable of bikes and projects: CB750 Funkenstein; in the middle of another custom CB750 that should be finished this summer