Not everyone can do the bling thing without it looking forced or cheesy, but then Steve Broyles has been at this business since way back in 1969 so he’s seen just about anything and everything and by now, knows what works and what doesn’t. Actually Steve and his son also named Steve (probably just easier calling them in for dinner with one name) are responsible for this Ultimate Builder Freestyle Class winning custom. Got to give credit to a Sr. and Jr. (actually Steve II) that can just get along.

All I know is that I’m glad I didn’t have to polish that 93” S&S Shovel as the polishing goes way the hell down into the fins even. The juxtaposition of the vintage-style black cylinders keeps it from being overdone while the trademark Stevensons Cycle split rocker boxes keeps it modern and more interesting to gaze at. The Broyles always come up with something just a bit different mechanically and in this case it’s the Stevensons/Evil Engineering primary with a lower starter belt drive that puts the starter behind the BAKER Torque Box tranny. Just a nice touch that you have to look for to appreciate.

Stevensons, as usual, doesn’t run for the nearest catalogue when they build a bike and makes just about everything in-house from the frame to the tin work. One of their signature items really stands out and that’s their oval glass-side oil tank. It’s available in a round unit as a standard offering so if you’re looking for something totally cool and different, check it out. I’m sure if you asked them nicely and had the cash to back it up, they’re totally capable and could make one in any shape your little heart desired.

Special props has to go to Darren Williams of Liquid Illusions Art in St. Louis, Missouri, for an absolute knockout of a paint job. Normally I’m not a showy type of guy and prefer the subtle look, but Darren’s blue metal flake paintwork appears to be self-illuminated. The gold leaf compliments the many hand-made brass accents Steve has added throughout the bike. Oh it’s showy, but then this is a show bike and winning shows is what it does. Cruising the Internet, it seems like the GL Special has almost won enough show dough to pay for itself. Now all that’s left is to see if it can ring the register again at the AMD Show in Sturgis this summer.

For more information on Stevensons Cycle, tap away www.stevensonscycle.com on your keyboard and go for a tour of all their formidable volume of work.