Fate can really suck sometimes. One day you're on top of the word living it up to the fullest, and in a blink of a an eye it's all gone. Charles "Mask" Lewis suffered such a destiny. He was best known as the face and co-founder of Tapout apparel, but at the peak of his career he was tragically killed in a car accident.
When AKA Custom decided to build a high profile bike to showcase its talents, a tribute bike to the fallen friend seemed fitting. Owner Jason Peterson explained why he chose such a unique individual: This bike is an officially licensed Tapout project and was built as a tribute to Charles "Mask" Lewis. Sadly, a drunk driver killed Charles on March 11, 2009. He was an inspiration to many and will be sadly missed, but never forgotten. He reminded us every day that we all have the ability to succeed, and for that we wanted to immortalize his image." With such a well-known face being memorialized, the paint would have to be flawless. To make it as realistic as possible, AKA recruited Killer Kreationz for its superior airbrush abilities. The rest of the bike followed the bad boy business look that included a single-sided swingarm, wire spoke wheels and a host of other billet accessories.
The finished look is a fitting tribute to a man that helped to create an industry and influence an entire generation of fighters. To add a final ray of light and to keep his memory alive, the bike is scheduled to be raffled off with the proceeds going to charity in Lewis's name.
Win This Bike!
Make-A-Wish is the nation's largest wish-granting organization. Since 1980, the foundation has given hope, strength and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions. Money raised from the Tapout 'Busa will be donated in the name of Charles "Mask" Lewis. Tickets are available at akacustomcycles.com and tapout.com for $10 each.
2009 Suzuki HayabusaFront End: Ride Wright "Fat Daddy" wheel, Metzler XXL Marathon tire, Galfer front rotors
Rear End: Ride Wright "Fat Daddy" wheel, Metzler XXL Marathon 240 tire, Gregg's Customs Sidearm, rear rotor, sprocket and center wheel cap
Motor: VooDoo exhaust, K&N oil and air filters, Power Commander V
Paint: Fred Sicoli at Killer Kreations (
killerkreations.biz )
Bodywork: Hotbodies Racing oversized air scoops and undertail
Accessories: Killer Kreations candy headlight and turn signals, Roland Sands triple tree, Ransom handlebars, gauge bezel, levers, Vortex rearsets, lowering links, RIS Designs stator and clutch covers, STM grips, P&L Upholstery custom seats, Myrtle West kickstand, Galfer brake lines and pads
Builder: AKA Custom Cycles (
akacustomcycles.com )