Bandit pieced the bike back together, putting a DNA Springer front end on it and adding an extra wide 16-inch front tire. He removed the front fender, added apes and Vance & Hines Longshots, and reworked the electrical system, among other things. He then started in on a wickedly beautiful orange and yellow flame paint job. “I really like that paint,” he said, “but it was probably my last paint project, because everyone in my shop complained so much about the fumes. Now I use contractors.”

But the paint was beautiful, the rebuild was beautiful, and Bandit fell in love. Kyle had been so traumatized by the old couple crushing his bike that he asked Bandit if he wanted to buy it, and he jumped at the chance. Kyle was still in love with his Heritage though, and seeing Bandit with his new and improved bike was a little like seeing your ex-girlfriend with a new man. He asked to buy the bike back, and Bandit let her go.

If you love a Harley, set it free. If you really love it, your mechanic may just sell it back to you.