I caught a glimpse of Pharell’s kustom motorcycle in Rides magazine. The article explained that Pharell wanted the bike to inspire, not WOW. His thinking best summarizes my disapointment with most modern kustom cars: they’re built to announce to everyone around you that you’ve “made it.” It’s about a garish display of wealth. When you flip through these baller magazines, you see the same thing over and over. Just another car from another new rich guy trying to look like the other rich guys. Utterly boring.

Pharell’s bike, on the other hand, is a fresh take on a vintage bike. Not another tough guy chopper. All executed with thoughtful, subtle details. Well done!