To truly stand out, one must summon the courage to be unapologetically unique. For our latest “Chop Speak” collaboration with Progressive Insurance, we’re joined by J. Shia of Madhouse Motors. In her Boston-based workshop, J. Shia excels in the meticulous art of restoring and maintaining vintage bicycles to their former glory. Despite having downtime on her hands, she often finds herself struggling to corral her creative impulses and keep them from getting away.
The ’57 Royal Enfield Indian motorcycle, uniquely hers, made its debut at the 2019 Handbuilt Bike Show, where it garnered attention and attracted a crowd throughout the entire weekend.
The ‘Satan’s Advocate’ originated from a neglected 700cc Royal Enfield Indian motorcycle, an uncommon model that warrants attention. Following Indian Motorcycles’ closure in 1953, the brand’s assets were acquired by Brockhouse Home Engineering, a prominent UK-based motorcycle manufacturer. To meet the growing demand for Indian-branded motorcycles, manufacturers began rebranding Royal Enfield models under local labels. To maintain consistency with Indian’s tradition of attributing American-inspired monikers, the company dubbed their motorcycles “Apache” and “Trailblazer”, both of which were 700cc twins, including this model.
Following several years of refining buyer requirements, With determination, Shia decided to build another bike, drawing inspiration from her trusty Enfield and using it as a foundation. A motorcycle that defied conventional norms in its design, mirroring the boldness of her individual style. This is the story behind my unique encounter that shaped me into who I am today…
“I founded Madhouse Motors in Boston, Massachusetts, where our team specializes in vintage restoration, routine maintenance, fabrications, and the occasional custom build.” The vintage motorcycle is a 1957 Royal Enfield Indian, boasting a unique foot-controlled throttle and a distinctive inner tank gearshift. It was the innovative concept of designing a series of unconventional bicycles that truly piqued my interest. Like a dysfunctional family’s never-ending drama, the state of the world plays out in all its messy glory.
The BSA A65 I previously owned, which started with a pull start, had finished before the one I’m currently working on. As my predecessor’s iteration approached, I found myself pondering innovative ways to challenge the conventional boundaries of bicycle design and performance. After considering various styles, I’ve revised your text as follows:
“I opted for a foot throttle, which completely changes the dynamics of my bike – its performance and character now revolve around mastering this new control method.”
While initially glancing at the bike from a distance or even examining photographs, several minute details tend to go unnoticed. Innovative quirks that we sprinkled in, akin to the egg slicer with a built-in LED light that adds a touch of whimsy. We employed a superseded shoe-changing device for the footrests and salvaged a vintage lathe’s tank shifter. The headlight is an antiquated police siren that we’ve salvaged and reworked, while the seats are sourced from a vintage little red wagon. Here are the sorts of minute details that were tossed in solely for whimsical delight.
I’m impressed by my ability to complete the bicycle in just eight months. I took a substantial pause to grant myself some time to recharge and slow the pace of my progress. After the Revival Cycles Hand-Constructed Presentation, I’m still undecided about the future of this piece. I’d rather present the entire series simultaneously. Participating in a Hand Constructed Present alongside numerous exceptional craftsmen proved to be an unparalleled experience. It’s unbelievably humbling.”
Together with all the necessary components, J. Shia LaBeouf discussed his unique Royal Enfield motorcycle, which boasts an array of bespoke features and modifications. The rear section has been lengthened and connected via a pair of centrally located shock absorbers, securing the vehicle’s stability and performance. The revised entrance finish was carefully curtailed to accentuate its sleek stance, while the bespoke exhaust design exuded a sense of premium quality. J. To eliminate all doubt, Shia reconstructed the engine’s core components – including the prime finish and transmission – ensuring that any lingering uncertainties about its rideability were thoroughly addressed.
In the unique realm of bespoke motorcycles, Shia’s Royal Enfield Indian motorcycle firmly belongs to the Classic category. It seems unlikely that she would require a different strategy.
Underwritten by Progressive Insurance, captivating images by Gretchen Devine and Stephen Canino.
