Ever wondered what would happen if you dropped your pride and joy off to be fully pimped and then tried to skip out on the bill? After a certain period of time, the bike can be repossessed in a lien sale, and that's precisely how AIP Racing in Van Nuys, California, acquired its 2002 Honda RC51.
Chris Jones explained how the custom shop bike came about: "I acquired the bike from a deadbeat customer. I had put all kinds of money into the bike and the owner never came through. I sat on the bike for two years before I did anything. That's why it's a 2002."
Rather than put the bike up for auction, AIP decided to finish the build according to the original plans. The "racing" part of AIP Racing wouldn't allow them to build a rough-riding trailer queen, though. Instead, AIP wanted to show its customers that having a custom bike shouldn't put limits on where it can be ridden. "Our idea was to keep it a realistic motorcycle. That's why we didn't put a big tire on it or anything like that. You can still go do a track if you want," explained Jones.
The bike is currently for sale at the shop. Just make sure you have enough money to pay for it before you call.
2002 Honda RC51
Front End: Chrome front forks and stock wheel
Rear End: Chrome rear shock and stock wheel, driven chain and sprockets
Motor: AIP Racing, balanced and blueprinted, cams, block-off plates, soft-touch rev-limit removed, flapper removed, airbox modifications, K&N air filter, Dynojet Power Commander III, Micron exhaust
Paint: AIP Racing, Rene's Customs and Chris Jones
Polish/Chrome: AIP
Bodywork: Euro Tails undertail draft pan
Accessories: Lockhart Phillips hardware, Cyron 105 LED kit with remote
Owner: AIP Racing
Builder: AIP Racing (www.aipracing.com)