One of the few Japanese custom shops with an English-language translation website is Hide Motorcycle, also known as Hidemo. Since 2001, Hide has specialised in Harley custom motorcycles, and its latest venture is a range of Sportster conversions. (So new, in fact, that the product page is one of the few that have not yet been translated.) The machine above is Hide’s ‘Traditional Style’ bike, with new wheels, bodywork and engine ancillaries—plus that stunning restyled muffler. It’s a showcase for Hide’s mission to build bikes that are “rare, warm, natural and interesting”, reflecting old-style racing culture. Like most Japanese builders, there are a lot of ‘peanut’ tanks and ape bars in the Hide catalogue. But there are also a lot of customs that’ll have very strong appeal to western eyes, and many Hide bikes have won awards in the top Japanese and Western custom motorcycle shows. If you ever find yourself in Japan, factor in a visit to Hide’s factory in Kawasaki—it’s within easy reach of both Tokyo and Yokohama. [See more images of the Hide custom Sportster in the album on the Bike EXIF Facebook page.]

Canon EOS Rebel XSi/450D | 1/250s | f/5.6 | ISO 100 | Focal length 55mm