Arlen Ness

Arlen Ness: A Lifetime of Innovation and Customization

Arlen Ness, a name synonymous with custom motorcycle design, has left an indelible mark on the world of motorcycling. From his humble beginnings crafting custom bikes in his San Leandro, California garage to becoming one of the most celebrated figures in motorcycle culture, Ness’s visionary approach to design and innovation has revolutionized the industry. Honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, his career has spanned decades of groundbreaking custom builds, parts development, and inspiring a new generation of builders.

The Early Days: From Garage to Showroom

Arlen Ness’s journey into motorcycle stardom began in the early 1970s when he transitioned from building bikes in his home garage to opening his first storefront on East 14th Street in San Leandro. Initially recognized for his unique and bold painting style, Ness quickly gained attention not just for his artistic designs but also for his innovative custom motorcycle parts. His reputation grew as his custom bikes became fixtures on the bike show circuit, and his designs were featured in major motorcycle magazines, securing his status as a master of customization.

The Dublin Facility: A Motorcycle Mecca

By the mid-2000s, after more than three decades in the business, Ness expanded his operation to a state-of-the-art facility in Dublin, California. This new location houses Arlen Ness Motorcycles and features a museum that showcases more than 40 of his most iconic custom builds. Among the treasures on display are his legendary creations like the Untouchable, the twin-motor Two Bad, the antique-inspired Ness-Tique, the turbine-powered Mach Ness, and the smooth, Bugatti-like Smooth-Ness. Each bike reflects Ness's unrelenting dedication to pushing the boundaries of motorcycle design.

The museum not only serves as a testament to Ness’s ingenuity but also allows fans and fellow builders to witness firsthand the evolution of his craftsmanship. Standout bikes like the Ferrari Bike, inspired by the Italian sports car, and the ‘57 Chevy-themed Ness-Stalgia, demonstrate his ability to meld automotive inspiration with two-wheeled artistry.

Jet-Powered Innovation: The Mach Ness

One of Arlen Ness’s most renowned creations is the Mach Ness, a 2005 custom motorcycle powered by a jet engine. Inspired by Jay Leno’s turbine-powered bike, Ness took the concept to new heights, incorporating a jet-powered helicopter engine as the bike’s power plant. The hand-crafted aluminum bodywork was executed by Bob Monroe, while the design, concept, paint, and graphics were created by Carl Brouhard. The Mach Ness, like all of Arlen’s bikes, is not just a motorcycle—it’s a statement piece, blending raw power and aesthetic elegance.

A Family Legacy

Arlen Ness’s influence doesn’t stop with him. His son, Cory Ness, has worked alongside him for over 30 years, eventually taking over the day-to-day operations of Arlen Ness, Inc.. Cory, also an accomplished custom builder, has earned his own accolades and even triumphed over his father in a 2004 episode of the Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off. Together, Arlen and Cory’s father-son dynamic has propelled the company forward, ensuring that the Ness name remains at the forefront of custom motorcycle culture.

Carrying the family tradition into a third generation, Zach Ness, Cory’s son, began building high-end custom motorcycles before even finishing high school. Zach’s early accomplishments showcase that the Ness family’s talent for innovation and design is deeply rooted and will continue to influence the motorcycle world for years to come.

Innovation and Recognition

Beyond his striking custom builds, Arlen Ness has made significant contributions to the technical side of motorcycles. He holds a patent for the Big Shot, a method of altering a motorcycle’s fuel injection system, allowing riders to personalize their bike’s performance. His innovation has paved the way for greater customization and has been widely adopted by motorcycle enthusiasts looking to tweak their rides to perfection.

Over the years, Ness has garnered numerous accolades, including Builder of the Year awards, induction into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, and multiple Lifetime Achievement Awards. These honors solidify his place not just as a custom builder, but as a true pioneer in the motorcycling industry.

Arlen Ness’s Enduring Influence

From his early days working in a garage to helming one of the most successful custom bike operations in the world, Arlen Ness’s career is the embodiment of passion, creativity, and innovation. His work continues to inspire both seasoned builders and newcomers alike, demonstrating that motorcycles are not just machines but canvases for artistry and self-expression.

As Arlen Ness’s custom creations roar across the world’s roads and his patented innovations power countless motorcycles, his legacy as one of the all-time greats in motorcycling remains firmly intact. The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and enthusiasts worldwide honor his unparalleled contributions to the culture and lifestyle of motorcycling, recognizing him as not only a master builder but a true icon.