Prepare to be utterly captivated! This isn't just a motorcycle; it's a breathtaking work of art on two wheels, a testament to the incredible talent of a true craftsman. When words fail to adequately describe something this stunning, you know you're looking at something special.
Meet Hideki Hoshikawa, a name that might not be on everyone's lips, but one that commands immense respect within Japan's vibrant custom motorcycle community. Working in solitude at his Asterisk Custom Works, Hideki has poured his unparalleled skill into transforming a 1978 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead into a machine so profound, it's been affectionately nicknamed Bennu. This project, his first major undertaking in six years, is more than just a build; it's a symbolic rebirth, echoing the ancient Egyptian bird Bennu, a powerful symbol of creation and renewal.
From the very outset, the metamorphosis orchestrated by Asterisk was nothing short of revolutionary. The original bike was meticulously stripped down, with nearly all its factory components being set aside. The frame itself underwent a significant reconstruction, featuring a reinforced single downtube backbone designed to perfectly complement the custom vision. Even the steering neck was expertly reshaped to harmonize with this new, robust structure.
But here's where the classic aesthetic truly takes hold... At the rear, the conventional suspension was entirely replaced with a rigid hardtail setup. This choice dramatically amplifies the bike's timeless charm, giving it that unmistakable vintage silhouette. Up front, a vintage-style leaf spring fork from W&W Cycles cradles a commanding 22-inch wheel, which is artfully paired with a period-accurate Kustom Tech drum brake. The rear mirrors this classic theme with a 19-inch hoop and another precise Kustom Tech drum brake. Both wheels are meticulously laced with stainless-steel spokes and fitted with retro-look tires, completing the bike's authentic old-school stance.
And for the heart of this beast? A freshly acquired S&S Cycle 74-cubic-inch (1,200 cc) V-twin powerplant. Interestingly, Hideki hadn't originally planned an engine swap. However, upon closer inspection of the original motor, which had been heavily modified for racing, he made the decisive choice to opt for the robust S&S unit. This new engine is adorned with custom rocker covers, breathes effortlessly through an S&S Super E carburetor, and draws air through a beautifully crafted bespoke velocity stack.
Now, let's talk about the exhaust – it's a true showstopper! This hand-crafted system features a two-into-one header that elegantly runs down the left side, loops gracefully beneath the seat, and culminates in a masterfully constructed muffler. Honestly, the silencer itself is a piece of art. The project's creator has paid just as much attention to the bike's aesthetics. The focal point is undoubtedly the custom two-piece tank, ingeniously designed with one section for fuel and the other for oil. These two components are seamlessly joined by a polished aluminum panel that cleverly integrates the ignition and a compact Motogadget Motoscope Tiny speedo. Gleaming chrome filler caps add a touch of brilliance, and the sleek bobber saddle nestled behind them is upholstered in black leather, intricately embossed with subtle wing motifs.
And here's a clever touch most might overlook... A repurposed front fender now ingeniously serves as Bennu’s rear mudguard, mounted with custom stainless steel struts. Hideki has also meticulously refined the cockpit, equipping it with minimalist handlebars, an internal throttle for a cleaner look, discreet switches, and a precision-engineered billet brake lever. For that extra dose of vintage flair, the clutch operation is handled by foot, utilizing a jockey shifter.
Illumination is expertly managed by a Crime Scene Choppers grilled headlight at the front and a compact LED taillight discreetly tucked above the license plate. The entire machine is finished in a lustrous dark blue, enhanced with delicate gold pinstriping and further accented with the rich tones of brass, chrome, and polished metal throughout. Bennu is, without a doubt, a masterclass in the art of custom motorcycle design.
Asterisk Custom Works has delivered not just a motorcycle, but a powerful statement. It makes one truly hope that Hideki’s next masterpiece won't be another half-decade in the making!
What do you think about this incredible transformation? Does the rigid hardtail design speak to you, or do you prefer bikes with modern suspension? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below – we'd love to hear your take!
