Younger builders often get criticized for trying out different ways of customizing bikes?whether it?s pushing the design envelope or making unconventional tire choices.
But we know firsthand that many of these guys have a keen appreciation for the old as well as the new. Young Guns? Nik Heer is one of those young whippersnappers with a foot in the past, because pride of place in his garage near Lake Zürich is this extremely authentic 1971 Triumph Trackmaster.

It?s a piece of pure flat track gold. ?It was originally built by Les Edwards of Cycle Imports in San Jose, CA,? Nik reveals, ?but my uncle and I bought it from Big D Cycle in Texas.?
?It was raced by Dave Hansen, and also ridden by Jimmy Odom in the movie On Any Sunday. It?s still got the original nickel plating, paint and seat, but I don?t know what work was done while Dave had it.?
?I spotted the bike on eBay, and just knew that I wanted it. For me, it?s the most beautiful motorcycle on earth: Super smooth to ride, very agile, and powerful for its age,? says Nik.
?It also feels very light when you?re out on the track?and it?s great to keep up with XR-750s on an old Triumph!?

Young Guns Speed Shop is known for its fresh, eclectic style, but Nik has resisted the temptation to mess with the old Triumph. He?s already taken it racing?but is soon going to fit a new tank and seat, in the exact style of the originals.
Despite its advanced years, the tracker is in good order. ?It was hard to tell from the pictures w...