At first, the idea of mixing custom bikes, tattoos, piercings, body painting, rock 'n roll, beer and sexy hosts might seem ludicrous and tasteless. However, when you really think about it, the result can be surprising. We could even talk about a unique sub-culture: personalizing body and/or bike as a radical way to express your difference. Ultimately, it's a declaration of independence! At the 2009 Classic Bike & Tattoo Show, which took place in Laval last weekend, such declarations were proclaimed with pain, sensuality and, of course, alcohol. And let's not forget the hardcore riffs serving as the ritualistic soundtrack.


Piercings and tattoos are not your cup of tea? Fair enough, but you still have to recognize the graphical artistry involved. As for bikes, there are two trends that shape the world of tuning: plenty of cash but little imagination or plenty of imagination but little cash. Both were on display during the 3-day event.

Like Jesse James and the Teutuls from Orange County, dozens of enthusiasts had brought their own radically-styled choppers with a ridiculously-wide rear tire. These machines put your legs nearly horizontal and your upper body stretched forward to grip the handlebars (in relative sportbike fashion). This ultra-arched, C-shaped riding position is awfully restrictive and totally uncomfortable... unless you're a slim, body-bending alien. Needless to say this type of bike puts form over function!

Yet, somewhere amid this chrome extravaganza, there were a few gems, including a remarkable pair of classic Bob Tails as well as a Harley-Davidson Sportster engine mounted on a supermoto frame. How cool and delinquent!

For the 10th edition of the Classic Bike & Tattoo Show, organizer Pascal Richard had thought of everything: over 50 tattoo artists, non-stop animation by the folks at "Québec Érotique" magazine, seminars, demo rides, fashion shows, performances by Steve Hill's rock band on Friday night and Martin Deschamps on Saturday night, etc. The highlight of the event was definitely the Canadian Custom Bike Championship.

See you next year for the 11th edition!




Photo Credit : Luc Brière