Planning your participation in a Custom Bike Competition Asia Tour? This guide breaks down everything a Harley rider needs to know, from understanding the event to preparing your custom ride. Get ready to showcase your masterpiece and explore Asia with fellow enthusiasts! Covered are tips on customization, logistics, and making the most of this unique experience.
Hey there, fellow riders! Barry K. Richmond here. So, you’ve got a custom Harley that’s your pride and joy, and you’re eyeing that epic Custom Bike Competition Asia Tour? That’s fantastic! We all love seeing those unique machines come to life, and a tour like this is a brilliant chance to share your passion. But perhaps you’re wondering where to even begin with preparing your bike and yourself for such an adventure. It’s totally normal to feel a bit daunted, but that’s why I’m here! We’ll go through everything step-by-step, making it simple and stress-free. Ready to get your custom beauty tour-ready? Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Custom Bike Competition Asia Tour
The Custom Bike Competition Asia Tour is more than just a contest; it’s a celebration of motorcycle craftsmanship and rider culture across various Asian countries. These tours typically involve a series of events where custom-built motorcycles are showcased and judged based on originality, craftsmanship, style, and sometimes, performance. For Harley riders, these events are a prime opportunity to display the unique flair and meticulous work that goes into personalizing these iconic machines.
What sets these tours apart is the blend of competition and touring. Participants often ride their custom bikes between venues, covering significant distances. This means your bike needs to not only look incredible but also be roadworthy and reliable. It’s a true test of both your building skills and your riding machine’s capabilities. Think of it as an extended, high-profile road trip with fellow bike lovers and builders.
Why Ride a Harley in an Asian Competition?
Harley-Davidson motorcycles have a global reputation for their distinctive style, powerful engines, and the strong sense of community they foster. This makes them a natural fit for custom bike competitions. When you bring a custom Harley to an Asian tour, you’re bringing a piece of automotive history and a canvas that resonates with many riders worldwide.
The raw power, the unmistakable rumble, and the endless possibilities for customization mean a Harley-Davidson can stand out in any crowd. Whether you’ve gone for a classic bobber, a roaring chopper, a sleek cafe racer, or something entirely unique, your Harley likely embodies a specific vision. Participating in an Asia Tour allows you to share that vision with a diverse international audience, potentially inspiring others and gaining valuable feedback. Plus, the camaraderie among Harley riders is legendary, and you’ll find that spirit carries through on these tours.
Preparing Your Custom Harley for the Tour
This is where the rubber meets the road, literally! Getting your custom Harley ready involves a thorough check-up and specific preparations. It’s not just about the looks; it’s about ensuring your ride can handle the miles and the scrutiny.
1. The Essential Mechanical Check
Even if your bike is a showstopper, it needs to be a dependable ride. A pre-tour mechanical check is non-negotiable.
Engine and Drivetrain: Check for oil leaks, listen for unusual noises, and ensure smooth gear changes. A full service isn’t a bad idea if it’s due.
Brakes: Absolutely crucial. Inspect brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels. Ensure they are responsive and effective.
Tires: Examine tire tread depth and check for any cuts or wear. Proper tire pressure is key for handling and safety. For long tours, consider tires known for durability.
Suspension: Make sure your suspension is balanced and functions correctly. Worn suspension can affect handling, especially on varied Asian road conditions.
Electrical System: Test all lights, indicators, horn, and any custom electrical additions. Loose wires or faulty components can cause major headaches on the road.
Remember, you can find a wealth of information on specific Harley-Davidson maintenance on official resources like the Harley-Davidson Owner’s Maintenance section, though always refer to your specific model’s manual for detailed procedures.
2. Customization Critiques and Refinements
This is your chance to shine, but also to ensure your custom touches are competition-ready and tour-proof.
Originality and Craftsmanship: Judges will look for unique designs and high-quality workmanship. Are your welds clean? Is the paint job flawless? Are there any custom parts that truly stand out?
Functionality: If you’ve made significant modifications, ensure they don’t compromise safety or legality. Lights need to be visible, mirrors functional, and exhausts within noise regulations where applicable.
Comfort for the Ride: While aesthetics are vital, remember you’ll be riding this bike. Is the riding position sustainable for long hours? Is the seat comfortable? Are your controls easily accessible?
Durability of Custom Parts: Will that intricate custom fender hold up to road vibrations and minor bumps? Double-check that all custom elements are securely fastened and built to last.
3. Documentation is Key
You’ll likely need paperwork for your bike and for yourself:
Registration and Insurance: Ensure these are up-to-date and valid for international travel, if required by the tour organizers.
Custom Build Details: Have a clear description of your bike, its unique features, and the inspiration behind it. Many competitions provide forms for this.
Photos and Videos: Capture high-quality images and videos of your bike from various angles before the tour. This is great for promotion and for competition entries.
4. Packing Smart for the Tour
Beyond your personal gear, consider what your bike might need:
Basic Tool Kit: A small, essential tool kit to handle minor roadside fixes. Include wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and tire repair supplies.
Spare Parts: Consider common wear items like a spark plug, a clutch cable, or even a small amount of chain lube if applicable to your model.
Cleaning Supplies: Travel-sized polish and cloths to keep your custom masterpiece looking its best between stages.
Navigating the Competition Aspects
Participation in a custom bike competition involves more than just showing up. Understanding the judging process and categories can help you strategize.
Judging Criteria Explained
Competition organizers usually publish the judging criteria beforehand. Common factors include:
Design and Aesthetics: This covers the overall look, color schemes, lines, and visual appeal.
Craftsmanship and Quality of Work: Judges examine the precision of fabrication, welding, painting, upholstery, and the integration of custom parts.
Innovation and Originality: How unique is the concept? Are there groundbreaking custom elements or a fresh take on a classic style?
Theme Adherence (if applicable): Some competitions might have specific themes.
Technical Execution: Ensuring that custom modifications are safely and functionally integrated.
Rider Comfort and Practicality: Especially for toured competitions, how rideable is the custom bike?
It’s wise to check the specific rules and judging guidelines for the Asia Tour you’re targeting. Different events might place different emphasis on these criteria.
Competition Categories You Might Encounter
Custom bike competitions often have various categories to ensure fair competition among similarly styled builds. For Harley riders, you might see categories like:
Best Bobber/Chopper: Focusing on stripped-down or stretched-out designs.
Best Cafe Racer/Scrambler: For bikes with sporty or off-road styling.
Best Full Custom/Pro-Builder: For highly elaborate, professionally built machines.
Best Vintage Custom: For older Harleys given a custom twist.
People’s Choice Award: Voted by the audience, often a fan favorite for a visually impactful bike.
Knowing the categories helps you understand where your Harley might best fit and what aspects judges will be looking for in that specific class.
The “Asia Tour” Element: Riding and Logistics
This is what makes events like the Custom Bike Competition Asia Tour truly special – the journey itself.
Route Planning and Road Conditions
Asian roads can vary dramatically, from smooth highways to challenging, winding paths and bustling city streets. Researching the planned route is essential.
Highway vs. Local Roads: Understand the mix. Highways require stability and speed capability, while local roads demand agility and good suspension.
Surface Quality: Be prepared for potholes, uneven surfaces, and varying weather conditions. This reinforces the need for robust tires and a well-functioning suspension.
Navigation: Ensure you have reliable GPS or navigation tools. Download offline maps as a backup.
Fuel Availability: Research fuel stops along the route, especially for less common fuel types or stations in remote areas.
For reliable information on international motorcycle travel and road conditions, resources like the World Biker Asia travel guides can offer valuable insights into regional nuances.
Accommodation and Support
The tour organizers typically arrange accommodation, but it’s good to know what to expect.
Bike Security: Where will your custom Harley be parked overnight? Is there secure storage?
Mechanical Support: Will there be support vehicles or mechanics available for breakdowns? Knowing this beforehand can ease your mind.
Group Riding: Understand the escort system and the rules for group riding to ensure safety and order.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Respecting local cultures is paramount when touring in Asia.
Dress Code: Outside of riding gear, be mindful of local dress codes when visiting temples or cultural sites.
Communication: Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way.
Respect for Others: Be courteous to local drivers, pedestrians, and fellow competitors.
Cost Considerations for the Tour
Participating in such an event involves an investment. Being aware of the costs helps with budgeting.
Entry Fees and Event Costs
Competition Entry Fee: This is standard for most organized competitions.
Tour Participation Fee: This often covers logistics like accommodation, support vehicles, and sometimes meals.
Inspection/Certification Fees: Some countries may have fees for temporary vehicle importation or inspections.
Travel and Living Expenses
Transportation to Starting Point: Flights or shipping for yourself and potentially your bike to the tour’s start location.
Food and Drink: Budget for meals, especially if not fully covered by the tour package.
Personal Shopping and Souvenirs: For any personal interests along the way.
Contingency Fund: Always wise to have extra cash for unexpected issues or spontaneous opportunities.
Bike-Specific Costs
Pre-Tour Modifications/Repairs: Costs associated with getting your Harley competition and tour-ready.
Spare Parts and Tools: Purchasing items needed for the journey.
Insurance for the Bike: Specialized insurance for touring abroad might be necessary.
Here’s a rough breakdown of typical costs. These are estimates and can vary wildly based on the specific tour and your choices.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Competition Entry Fee | $100 – $500 | Varies by prestige and scale of the event. |
| Tour Participation Fee | $500 – $5,000+ | Covers accommodation, support, and route guidance. Highly variable. |
| Pre-Tour Bike Prep | $200 – $2,000+ | Depends on extent of customization and necessary maintenance. |
| Travel to Start Point | $300 – $1,500+ | Flights, shipping for bike, depending on origin and destination. |
| On-Tour Expenses (Food, etc.) | $50 – $150 per day | If not fully included in tour package. |
| Contingency/Miscellaneous | $500 – $1,000+ | For unforeseen events and personal spending. |
Top Custom Bike Trends for Asia Tours
While classic customization is always appreciated, keeping an eye on contemporary trends can help your build stand out.
Sustainable Materials: Increasingly, builders are exploring eco-friendly materials in their builds, from recycled metals to biofuels.
Smart Technology Integration: Subtle integration of GPS trackers, advanced lighting systems, or even rider-assist features can add a modern edge.
Retro-Futurism: Blending classic Harley lines with futuristic elements, often seen in sleek, aerodynamic fairings and unique lighting.
Artistic Paintwork: Beyond simple colors, complex airbrushing, intricate pinstriping, and unique textures are gaining traction.
* Minimalist Design: Focusing on shedding unnecessary weight and components to reveal the raw beauty of the engine and frame.
These trends aren’t rules, but inspiration. The most important element is your personal vision for your custom Harley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need special international riding permits for an Asia Tour?
A1: It heavily depends on the specific countries the tour passes through. Many tours have arrangements, but you should always check with the organizers and consult your country’s government travel advisories or the destination countries’ embassy for requirements like International Driving Permits (IDP) or specific visa needs. Many international touring resources, like the International Association of Travel Agency Networks, can provide general guiding principles, though specific motorcycle regulations will be with the tour organizers and local authorities.
Q2: How do I transport my custom Harley-Davidson to the starting point if it’s overseas?
A2: This usually involves specialized motorcycle shipping services. They can crate your bike or transport it in specially designed containers. Costs can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the distance and service. Research reputable international motorcycle shippers well in advance.
Q3: What kind of spare parts are most important to carry for a custom Harley on an Asian tour?
A3: Focus on parts specific to your custom modifications and common wear items. This could include spare cables (clutch, throttle), a spark plug, fuses, light bulbs, and a basic tire repair kit (plugs, CO2 cartridges, or a small pump). Also, carry any specialized tools specific to your custom build.
Q4: Will my custom Harley meet local road regulations in each country?
A4: This can be a grey area. Most competition tours aim to avoid issues, but it’s your responsibility to ensure your bike is as compliant as possible. Modifications like exhaust noise levels, headlight brightness, or mirror placement can differ across countries. Consult the tour organizers and research regulations for your specific route.
Q5: How much maintenance can I realistically do myself on the road during the tour?
A5: For basic maintenance, like checking tire pressure, topping up fluids, cleaning the bike, or tightening loose bolts, you can do a lot. However, for more complex issues, relying on the tour’s support team or local mechanics is advisable. Always carry your bike’s service manual if possible.
Q6: What should I do if my custom bike breaks down during the tour?
A6: First, ensure you and your bike are in a safe location away from traffic. Contact the tour organizers immediately – they usually have support vehicles and a plan for breakdowns. If you have basic mechanical knowledge, you can assess the issue while waiting for help, but avoid attempting major repairs unless you’re confident and have the necessary tools and parts.
Q7: Is travel insurance for myself as important as bike insurance for the tour?
A7: Yes, absolutely. Comprehensive travel insurance for yourself is crucial. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. Ensure your policy also covers your motorcycle during the tour, especially if it’s on public roads and you’re with a tour group.
Conclusion: Your Custom Adventure Awaits!
Embarking on a Custom Bike Competition Asia Tour aboard your Harley-Davidson is an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to put your custom creation to the ultimate test, not just in the eyes of judges, but on the open roads of Asia. You’ll meet incredible people, experience diverse cultures, and collect stories that will last a lifetime.
Preparation is key, from ensuring your custom Harley is mechanically sound and immaculately presented, to packing smart and understanding the logistics of international travel. Embrace the journey, enjoy the camaraderie, and ride with pride. This tour isn’t just about winning a competition; it’s about being part of a global movement of passionate riders and builders. So, get your tools ready, polish that chrome, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime! Safe travels and happy riding!