All motorcycle builders love cars, and car customizers love bikes. And we all work on our own rides. Some even work professionally on both at the same time. But what are the personal 4-wheel rides of the custom builders you know? I know quite a few of them and today I give you the answer for Arlen Ness. Contrary to popular belief, his 1st claim to fame was not a motorcycle, but a customized mercury 51 published in his high school paper. Arlen dreamed of a Ferrari Testarossa (if I remember well, after his first trip to Italy). But he preferred a black 1977 Ferrari 308 GTB in an all steel body customized to look a lot like…a Testarossa. Then, a 1959 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud that Arlen bought 38 years ago to celebrate his first sucesses. He says that at the time, he spent more on it than on his first house! Add a silver metallic 1987 Porsche 911 Turbo tricked out with racing goodies. Then, a Dodge Viper driven to work during a certain time by Cory, sold by him and bought back later by Arlen. Then, a dropped and chopped 1956 Ford F150 that he sold, bought back on Ebay and going now through restoration. One of his favorite toys? He hesitates between his red 1995 Lamborghini Diablo VT and his custom 1932 Ford Roadster. By the way, a collection, like a custom motorcycle or car, is never finished…
They are all beautiful models, but I am a little bit surprised by his selection. Would have thought more hot rods in the stable.
I take any of them.
A class act.
That’s the sort of public image the MC industry needs.
Not the embarrassing, dysfunctional clowns.
IMHO, anyway
-nicker-
Arlen is a great role model for our industry and by all respect Cory has talents too growing his business into what it is today. Our industry needs more people like Arlen to promote it in a positive fashion.
Next month, i intend to visit Arlen Ness store in Dublin. Are these cars exhibited at his store or do they stay in his garage?
Pat,
Arlen is just up the road. Last time i was by there he had only bikes.
However, he has an upper floor full of old custom scooters and some vintage bikes that are really worth seeing!
Don’t miss it!
-nicker-
So a rich old guy has a bunch of toys… boring!