Michael Prugh
Michael Prugh: The Art and Engineering of Custom Motorcycles
Born and raised in Casper, Wyoming, Michael Prugh is a testament to the intersection of art and engineering. The son of a librarian and an aircraft mechanic, he developed a keen appreciation for clean lines and meticulous attention to detail from an early age. Michael’s creative spirit flourished through his childhood hobbies—crafting dioramas, building scale models, and racing go-karts on a track built by his father. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for a lifelong passion that would later manifest in his career as a custom motorcycle designer.
A Journey of Education and Innovation
After completing high school, Michael attended the University of Wyoming for two years before moving to Denver, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Design from Metro State College. His education paved the way for a career in the automotive road race industry, a field that ignited his enthusiasm for speed and performance. However, the thrill of racing soon led him to seek a new challenge: designing a motorcycle chassis that would change the landscape of custom bikes forever.
Defying his family’s advice, Michael made the bold decision to relocate to Rapid City, South Dakota, to join Independent Cycle, Inc. It was there that he designed the groundbreaking softail chassis known as the Lowlife Chassis, which sparked a global trend for long and low motorcycle styles. The first bike built on this chassis garnered significant attention when it was featured on the popular show American Thunder. Shortly after, Michael introduced the Hardlife, further solidifying his reputation as a visionary in the motorcycle community.
Award-Winning Designs and Philanthropy
During his tenure at Independent Cycle, Michael crafted numerous award-winning motorcycles, showcasing his distinctive style and engineering prowess. His talent earned him two second-place finishes in the AMD Championships held in Morgan Hill, California, and Las Vegas. In addition to his competitive successes, Michael has dedicated time to building charity motorcycles, including a notable 2004 project for Kids & Chrome, auctioned during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and another benefiting the University of Michigan’s Cancer Research Center.
In 2006, Michael received the prestigious Frame Designer of the Year award at the V-Twin Excellence Awards in Cincinnati. That same year, he showcased his skills on the Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off, competing against renowned German builder Marcus Walz, further establishing his status in the world of custom motorcycles.
The Birth of Prugh Design
In 2006, Michael took a significant leap by founding Prugh Design, where he continued to innovate and craft custom motorcycles tailored to the desires of enthusiasts. His commitment to excellence was once again recognized in 2010 when the Buffalo Chip invited him to collaborate with students from Western Dakota Technical Institute. Together, they embarked on a ground-up build for a motorcycle that would be auctioned at the annual Legends Ride. Michael's mentorship allowed students to gain invaluable hands-on experience, culminating in a bike completed just in time for their graduation.
This partnership has since evolved, with Michael returning for another charity build, reinforcing his dedication to not just motorcycle design but also to nurturing the next generation of builders.
A Fusion of Art and Engineering
Michael Prugh’s unique combination of artistry and engineering expertise allows him to oversee every aspect of his motorcycle designs—from conceptualization to production and assembly. His innovative spirit and commitment to quality craftsmanship continue to drive him forward in the ever-evolving landscape of custom motorcycles.
As he moves forward, Michael remains a prominent figure in the motorcycle community, inspiring others with his vision and passion for the open road. Whether designing a stunning custom bike or mentoring aspiring builders, his legacy as a master craftsman is poised to leave a lasting impact on the world of motorcycling for years to come.