Imperial House's Gypsy Soul Slab Side Shovelhead
You've probably seen Imperial House Shawn's paint work whether you are aware of it or not. The prolific and talented painter has been laying lines and spewing candy on helmets, signs, panels and tanks for years. When it came time to build his own bike, he pulled out all the stops and the end result is just as slick and creative as one would expect.
Engine: 64 Pan Bottom, 66 Shovel Top
Trans: 49 Rachet top 4 speed
Frame: 48ish Wishbone
Tank: OG Paughco Alien
Seat: DS Originals (good shit)
Fender: Smooth Wassell chromed
Forks: Late model Narrow Glide shaved just right
Tires: Pirelli 19's
Handlebars: Preunit goodness
Built by Imperial House. Paint by Imperial House. Proven by Imperial House.
I started with the typical historical rake job on the frame, that I had to de-rake and finshed up the frame with some various molding to clean it up. Had the engine rebuilt by a buddy; Dan "Bacon" Carr. Went through the tranny to freshen her up. CNC Machined the front hub, and sent it to Buchanan's for the lacing. Shaved the front lowers completely by hand, as I wanted to save the Brake stay mount. Bent up the Stainless rod and welded on the Stainless Ball Bearings, to create the sissy bar. (It took a while, but, I like the way it turned out.) CNC Machined the custom tail light mount, complete with Imperial House Logo. Talked with another buddy; Dane Schroeder of DS-Originals; and after giving him the design, he nailed the seat. Finished it all up with a Black base covered with just a hint of Blue Pearl to give it that Midnight Blue look. Followed it up with some baby blue pearl that I married with just a touch of acetylene soot to keep things fresh. Capped it off with the Gypsy Silhouettes (each side is different) and some Ivory stripes.
Hope you dig it!
-Shawn