Written by Martin Hodgson
In the midst of the anguish and heartache of tragedy can come some of life’s most important lessons. For Dutchman Arjan van den Boom it was the untimely passing of his beloved Father, that came with it the realisation that living his dream to its full potential couldn’t wait another day. The owner and chief engineer of Ironwood Motorcycles has been building brilliant bikes for years, but now he’s full-time and focused on the goal. Growing the brand and building incredible unique customs like this new Yamaha XSR900 cafe racer with plenty of vintage flair.

Located in the Flevoland province of the Netherlands, Ironwood Motorcycles has gone from a side gig to a full-on workshop with employees and a second area with a bar, some classic Chesterfields and an ever-growing range of merchandise. Speaking fondly of his Dad, Arjan explains, ?He was 63, we were very close and supposed to go to Vietnam together for some weeks but then he was gone. He just missed the birth of my little brother?s son, my new house, my new shop and my 5-month old baby. Life can be tough for sure but now I?m even more focused and determined!?
With that remarkable attitude despite such loss the entire team attacks each project like it’s their last and when a client rolled in on a new XSR900 it would be no different. Known predominantly for their older bikes, the modern machine and clients particular instructions would pose some challenges as Arjan gener...