An immaculate, highly documented custom urban scrambler built by the renowned Side Rock Cycles (Pete Hodson). Based on a 1995 donor chassis and showing just 3,005 miles since the completion of the build in 2017, “Dirtbag” was officially selected and exhibited at the May 2017 London Bike Shed Show, combining iconic airhead character with heavily upgraded modern mechanical internals and complete digital integration.
Commissioned and meticulously crafted by Side Rock Cycles, “Dirtbag” was built to showcase the absolute pinnacle of bespoke airhead engineering. It was officially selected and exhibited at the London Bike Shed Show, where its striking look and mechanical detail drew massive attention.
The 1995 donor frame was completely stripped, de-tabbed of all redundant factory brackets, blasted, and finished in a gorgeous, glossy vivid cobalt pearl blue. The custom fuel tank features an exceptional deep-lacquered finish with a subtle, ghosted ‘fish scale’ airbrush design and twin cobalt blue pinstripes. The fish scale design continues to the hand made, bespoke seat. The stance is completed by a set of predominantly satin black wheels highlighted with matching blue accents.
This engine has been completely modernised, gas-flowed, and built for aggressive, reliable power:
• Twin-plug cylinder head conversion with brand-new valve guides and professional porting
• High-compression pistons for incredibly punchy, immediate power delivery
• Brand-new, larger 34mm Mikuni carburettors feeding through high-flow RAM air filters
• Ceramic-coated custom exhaust system with a deep, authoritative bark
The entire mechanical drivetrain has been thoroughly refreshed and optimized for both acceleration and distance cruising:
• Brand-new clutch and upgraded timing chain
• Fully refreshed gearbox equipped with a premium Siebenrock higher-ratio 5th gear for more relaxed, smooth highway cruising
• Brand-new seals and springs fitted throughout the assembly
Premium Running Gear & Suspension
• Suspension: Upgraded with an adjustable YSS rear shock to anchor the Monolever rear end perfectly
• Braking: Drastically improved stopping power via EBC floating discs paired with brand-new performance pads
The electrical infrastructure has been fully dragged into the modern era using world-renowned Motogadget & Acewell components integrated into a hidden, minimalist custom wiring loom:
• Motogadget m-unit digital control brain
• Ultra-clean handlebars featuring discrete Motogadget push-button switches
• Mileage: 3,005 miles (covered since the full custom build was completed)
• MOT: Fully tested and legal with a long MOT valid until July 2027
• Delivery: Delivery can be arranged nationwide or internationally for a separate negotiated charge (or I can work alongside Bike Shed’s partner courier services).
This is a rare opportunity to own a verified, magazine-grade piece of UK custom show history that is mechanically fresh underneath. Ready for the street, Sunday rides, or to hold pride of place in your collection.
Key Specifications for Listing Fields:
• Builder: Side Rock Cycles
• Donor Year: 1995
• Mileage: 3,005 miles (since build)
• Base Vehicle: BMW R80 Monolever
• Style: Scrambler / Urban Tracker
• Engine Size: 800cc (High-Output Twin-Plug)
• MOT Expiry: July 2027
• Price: £11,995.00
Original listing with Side Rock Cycles & Bike Shed Listings
• http://www.siderockcycles.com/bikes/dirtbag/index.html
• https://www.facebook.com/minimalistcustommotorcycles/posts/dirtbag-and-winspit-warrior-on-display-at-the-bike-shed-show-london-last-weekend/1366308843458052/
• https://www.facebook.com/minimalistcustommotorcycles/posts/decided-that-dirtbag-one-of-my-personal-rides-needs-to-be-sold-to-make-way-for-o/621010479813588/