Belonging to Harley-Davidson's formidable Softail lineage, the Street Bob currently stands as one of the most enticing choices for newcomers to the realm of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Branded as "stripped down for the street" by its manufacturer, this bike offers affordability, ease of handling, and a strong likelihood of winning riders over from the get-go.
However, not all riders who saddle up on the Street Bob find its stock appearance to their liking. Yet, this discontent often births remarkable custom endeavors like the one embodied by the Rapid Raptor.
Crafted by the skilled hands of German custom workshop Thunderbike for an undisclosed client, the Rapid Raptor, while not among the shop's most radical transformations, merits close inspection for its elevation of the Street Bob's allure to fresh heights.
Embodying Thunderbike's hallmark blend of maneuverability and classic aesthetics, the Rapid Raptor boasts subtle yet impactful alterations that significantly augment its visual appeal.
From the ground up, alterations are evident, starting with larger aftermarket wheels—now 18 inches at the rear and 21 inches upfront, replacing the original 16- and 19-inch counterparts, respectively. These wheels, clad in Metzeler rubber, nestle snugly beneath bespoke fenders, one fiberglass at the front and one steel at the rear.
Furthermore, the bike's stance has been lowered by 30 mm, courtesy of a custom lowering kit, accompanied by the addition of forward-mounted footrests to accommodate a revised riding position.
A plethora of bespoke components embellishes the bike, from various covers adorning its flanks and components (including the timer, derby, axle, airbox, and brake caliper) to the custom handlebar and grips.
As per Thunderbike's modus operandi, the Street Bob's engine remains unaltered, housing the stock Milwaukee-Eight 114 powerplant. However, it benefits from enhanced breathing capabilities via a Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde exhaust system.
While the exact cost of the build remains undisclosed, the value of the additional components (excluding the exhaust system) totals approximately 10,000 euros ($10,700). When factoring in labor costs, paintwork, and the $16,999 price tag of a stock Street Bob, one can gain insight into the investment required for such a transformation.