Written by Martin Hodgson
For any motorcycle enthusiast, the idea of being given a brand new motorcycle for free and cash to customise it is a dream come true. But when it happens and you’ve finished pinching yourself, that yes this is real, there comes a moment when you realise now you have to produce the goods. As part of Indian Motorcycles Wrench Build Off each contestant was given a new Scout Bobber and $10,000 to spend; and PJ Grakauskas of Chi-Jer?s Vintage Bike Works was up for the challenge and in for the fight producing this stunning Vintage Racer with all the fruit.

What makes PJ’s achievement so special to be even chosen by Indian in the first place is he has a full-time job as a safety inspector, is a committed husband and father and builds bikes in a tiny shed in his backyard. ?Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be building a custom motorcycle for such a great company with a storied history. It?s an honour and a privilege to represent us little guys working in their small garages and sheds. I am truly humbled by the whole experience.?
To pick up his brand new 2018 Indian Scout Bobber, PJ headed over to Bair?s Powersports in Ohio and then it was back home with just 12 weeks to get everything done. Inspired by classic Grand Prix bikes it was the fairings that took up the bulk of the time. ?I had them all sorted out until my Pops (part of Chi-Jer’s) decided to jump in and change them. A big part of the work is doing the math and as...