A German customization shop with three decades of experience, Thunderbike, has once again made headlines with its remarkable transformation of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Known for its intense work, Thunderbike frequently appears in autoevolution for its impressive builds. The shop creates a range of motorcycles, from the Heritage-based Shiny Star to race-inspired bikes based on the Breakout and other Harley platforms. However, Thunderbike has a particular affinity for the Chicano custom style, frequently showcasing striking examples of this unique modification.
Chicano, a term traditionally referring to Mexican-American individuals embracing their heritage, is used in the motorcycle world to describe bikes adorned with extravagant parts and eye-catching designs. This style features large body elements, such as oversized fenders and fishtail exhaust tips, as well as massive wheels. Chicano motorcycles are often finished with vivid paint jobs and intricate details, combined with a modified suspension system that lowers the bike close to the ground.
One of Thunderbike’s latest creations is the Harley-Davidson El Consejero. This custom bike, which translates to "The Counselor" in Spanish, demonstrates the full extent of Thunderbike’s craftsmanship. The Heritage model was extensively modified, resulting in a motorcycle that is barely recognizable from its original form. The El Consejero is clad in a striking blue color with airbrushed dark patches, and its fenders, side covers, fuel tank, and headlight cover are all tailored to fit the Chicano style.
The bike features large, fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) fenders designed to protect the massive wheels. The rear wheel measures 18 inches, while the front wheel is an impressive 23 inches in diameter. Both wheels are custom-made by Thunderbike and are part of the Digger series, with the front wheel alone priced at $2,300.
The El Consejero also sports high handlebars from the El Toxico series, which are mounted on risers and a triple tree with an additional six degrees of rake. The hydraulic clutch line is seamlessly integrated into the handlebars. At the rear, Thunderbike has installed a swingarm conversion and custom pulley, repositioned the license plate holder, and minimized the visibility of the disc brake.
The stance of the Heritage has been altered with an air ride suspension system, allowing the bike to achieve a low-slung look when stationary and a more practical height for riding. Despite the extensive modifications, the bike retains the original Heritage engine, a 114ci powerplant that delivers 94 hp and 119 ft-lb of torque. The engine's performance is enhanced by a modified exhaust system with fishtail tips, though its exact impact on performance remains unclear.
While a standard Harley-Davidson Heritage starts at $22,499, the Chicano conversion, exemplified by the El Consejero, adds $13,000 in parts alone, not including the cost of labor and the intricate paintwork.
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