Fred Hill

Freedom Fighters Award

Fred Kodlin: Pushing the Boundaries of Custom Motorcycle Design

Fred Kodlin is no stranger to pushing the envelope when it comes to custom motorcycle building. Renowned for his radical designs, cutting-edge products, and commitment to high-quality manufacturing, Kodlin has spent a lifetime perfecting his craft, constantly pushing the boundaries of what a motorcycle can be.

Growing up in Germany, Fred’s love for anything powered by gasoline was evident from an early age. By the time he was 13, he was already riding motorcycles, racecars, and boats, but it was on two wheels that his passion truly ignited. At just 16, Fred built his first custom piece—a Bonanza handlebar for his Zuendapp Supersport. This project laid the foundation for his lifelong obsession with creating unique, custom rides.

After completing an apprenticeship as a welder, Fred took a job with a heating company. Although the work provided financial stability, his true passion lay in the custom world of motorcycles. He envisioned creating bikes that were different, unlike anything else on the streets. Determined to follow his dreams, Fred pursued a master’s degree in Vehicle Construction and Blacksmithing, paving the way for the eventual founding of Kodlin Motorcycles in 1984.

In its early years, Kodlin Motorcycles was a small operation, but everything changed with the introduction of Harley-Davidson’s Evo engine. As Harley’s popularity surged in Europe, Fred saw an opportunity. He began importing hundreds of bikes from the U.S. and customizing them with his signature style before selling them to European customers. As his reputation grew, so did his ambition. He started crafting ground-up custom bikes, debuting his work at legendary bike shows like Rats Hole and Boardwalk in Daytona Beach, FL. Competing against the best builders in the world, Fred consistently won top honors, earning the respect of his American peers and solidifying his place in the international custom motorcycle community.

Kodlin’s designs were unlike anything anyone had ever seen. From Evo engines with two front cylinders to hubless wheels and hidden brake systems, Fred was constantly innovating, introducing fabrications that were as functional as they were groundbreaking. These unique creations, inspired by both American and European influences, made Kodlin Motorcycles instantly recognizable for their bold form and seamless functionality.

More than 36 years later, Kodlin Motorcycles is synonymous with excellence and innovation. Under Fred’s leadership, the brand continues to be at the forefront of the custom motorcycle world, and Fred himself is involved in every aspect of the business—from initial designs to final fabrication. Even after all these years, Fred’s skills in the metal shop are unmatched, and his passion for motorcycle building burns as brightly as ever.

In 2020, Fred expanded his operation to the U.S., realizing another lifelong dream with the establishment of Kodlin USA in Morgan Hill, California. This new chapter allowed Fred to bring his vision even closer to American motorcycle enthusiasts, while continuing to push the limits of design and craftsmanship.

Fred’s success has brought him many accolades over the years, including numerous "Best of Show" trophies and the admiration of riders around the globe. However, one of his proudest accomplishments is the emergence of his son, Len Kodlin, as a creative force within the Kodlin Motorcycles team. Together, father and son continue to push the limits of motorcycle design, ensuring that the Kodlin legacy will carry on for generations to come.

For Fred, the U.S.—and particularly the Black Hills of South Dakota—has always held a special place in his heart. He’s been attending Sturgis Bike Week since the late '80s, and in 2004, he joined the ranks of the Hamsters, an elite group of custom bike builders. In 2024, Fred reached an incredible milestone: his induction into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame. For Fred, this honor is the culmination of decades of hard work, innovation, and passion for the craft of custom motorcycle building. To be recognized alongside the legends of the industry is a dream come true, and a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Fred Kodlin’s story is one of creativity, determination, and a love for motorcycles that knows no bounds. His legacy is not just the award-winning bikes he has built but the inspiration he provides to future generations of builders, riders, and dreamers who dare to go against the grain.