Paul Yaffe
Paul Yaffe: The Master of Custom Motorcycles and Community Champion
In the world of custom motorcycles, few names resonate as powerfully as Paul Yaffe. A California native with an unyielding passion for motorcycles, Yaffe has not only shaped the landscape of custom bike design but has also made significant contributions to his community. His journey from a skateboard-riding youth to an industry leader is a story of creativity, innovation, and giving back.
A Passion Ignited
Growing up in California, Paul Yaffe spent his youth enthralled by the world of motorcycles. He could often be found skateboarding to local events, eager to soak in the sights of custom Harleys and mingle with riders. This early fascination with bikes led him to work at a local Harley-Davidson dealership, ensuring he stayed close to the machines he loved.
To further his knowledge, Paul attended the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, where he graduated at the top of his class. His commitment to motorcycles was unwavering, and in 1991, he partnered with two friends to co-found American Legend Motorcycle Company. The following year, they launched “Beyond Bolt-on,” a parts manufacturing and distribution arm. However, in 1994, Paul made the bold decision to buy out his partners and rebrand the company as Paul Yaffe Originals, consolidating his vision under a single name.
A Legacy of Innovation
With nearly 30 years of experience in designing custom motorcycles, Paul Yaffe has established himself as an industry leader and a true innovator. In 2006, he expanded his ventures by launching Paul Yaffe’s Bagger Nation, a company dedicated to providing custom parts and services for transforming Harley-Davidson touring bikes into custom baggers without compromising ride quality or reliability.
Each year, Paul is commissioned to create about 40 custom projects, pouring an impressive 700 hours of meticulous craftsmanship into each one. These builds feature dozens of one-of-a-kind parts and original sheet metal, showcasing his engineering prowess and artistic vision. The innovations developed through these custom projects have been instrumental in shaping the production parts that are now distributed worldwide.
A Star in the Spotlight
Paul’s work has garnered attention far beyond the motorcycle community. His custom bikes have been featured in hundreds of magazines, both in the United States and internationally. Paul has also made memorable appearances on television, including the Discovery Channel’s “Biker Build-Off” in 2003 and again in 2006. Currently, he stars in the History Channel’s “Biker Battleground Phoenix,” a ten-episode series highlighting the vibrant world of motorcycle customization.
Throughout his career, Paul has received numerous accolades for his work, including “Best of Show” honors at prestigious competitions such as The Rat’s Hole Show, Daytona, Laughlin, and Del Mar. One of his most notable creations, “Prodigy,” which won the Oakland Roadster Show, was even immortalized as a 1:18 scale Hot Wheels toy. As a three-time recipient of the “Trend Setter of the Year” award, Paul has also earned recognition for his engineering and product design excellence.
Giving Back to the Community
While his engineering skills and artistic abilities are widely recognized, it is Paul Yaffe's commitment to giving back that truly sets him apart. He is particularly passionate about helping children, having hosted a charity ride during Arizona Bike Week to support the Children’s Care facility in Rapid City. Additionally, Paul has been a steadfast supporter of Seattle Children’s Hospital, with several custom builds raising nearly a quarter of a million dollars for the organization. In recognition of his philanthropic efforts, he received the “Chrome Heart” award in 2012.
Conclusion
Paul Yaffe’s journey from a young skateboarder to a master motorcycle builder and community champion exemplifies the spirit of passion and dedication. His innovations have transformed the custom motorcycle industry, while his commitment to philanthropy underscores the importance of giving back. As he continues to push the boundaries of motorcycle design and support charitable causes, Paul Yaffe remains a beloved figure in both the motorcycle community and beyond.