They say ‘whenever a thing is done for the first time, it releases a little demon.’ For Death Machines of London, the little demon in their hearts and minds has reappeared, as the studio has just released their second custom-creation – ‘Up Yours Copper’.
Following in the successful tracks of their debut build, the Moto Guzzi Airtail, the London-based garage has released the latest concept resurrected from the remains of a 2007 Triumph Thruxton 900.
‘Up Yours Copper’, as the name suggests, is a pioneering piece of design from the burgeoning British garage who seek to redefine motorbike design as we know it. By first redeveloping the Moto Guzzi – notoriously the most challenging and iconic bike to take on – and secondly, through the mischievous, devilish and precise details of their latest bike.
The little demon has seemingly impacted on the name – ‘Up Yours Copper’ – but beyond the jovial name tag, the bike is a thoroughly impressive machine in its own right. For instance, the frame; finished in a deep coat of Beluga Black, was de-lugged, weld cleaned and extensively modified with an entirely new rear. The aesthetic makeover also extends into a full custom exhaust system that is perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the entire bike. Complete with ceramic coated pipes, a carbon fibre muffler, red light cluster and copper-plated nozzle, the exhaust elevates the bike to new, elegant heights.
But as mentioned before, the bike is built on details; and it is those small, considered details that lurk beneath, that make this vehicle so special. Beyond the Avon Trail Rider tyres and 1940 Supermarine Spitfire-inspired electrics, the bike features the classic quote: “Faster, faster, until the thrill of speed overcomes the speed of death", etched on the brass-engraved filter of the bike’s fuel tank.
As you would expect, the bike lives up to the cajoling quote as alongside the custom designed injection caps and Harley-style rims, the bike has benefitted from an extensive engine restoration, including the remodelling and uprating of the fuel pump system and injectors.
Take a closer look at the bike in the image gallery below and for further information, be sure to check out the Death Machines of London website.
Images courtesy of Death Machines of London and David Clerihew.
