

Words: Charlie Thomas
If you want to add some masculinity to your look, you need to purchase a motorcycle. There’s nothing quite like the rush of hurling along on two wheels and being exposed to the elements. The speed and aspect of danger makes it a truly unique experience and one that just can’t be replicated when driving a car. If you’re going to invest in a bike though you’ll undoubtedly want the best, and these three machines offer up heaps of inspiration. Not only do they look fantastic, they also merge elements of the past, present and future into their design and performance, making them unique interpretations of what their respective makers envision bike culture to be all about.
DEUS EX MACHINA GRIEVOUS ANGEL, , Having only been established in 2006, Deus ex Machina can’t claim to have the most prestigious or longest of brand histories. Looking at their custom builds though, you’d be forgiven for thinking they’ve been around for decades, such is the throwback design and retro functionality of each and every bike. Taking inspiration from the American and European custom bike cultures of the 1940s, the Australian brand marries old school techniques with modern-day reliability, creating some of the most beautiful works of art the motorcycle world has ever seen. One such bike is this signature build, the Grievous Angel, which features exposed gizzards, a striking underslung exhaust and a pure evil, all-black paintjob.

BULTACO RAPITAN, , If the Deus ex bike glances over its shoulder to yesteryear, the Bultaco Rapitan has its head firmly in the clouds of the future. Although its looks are undoubtedly appealing, the real highlight of the machine is the fact that it’s 100% electric, choosing to completely shun the traditional petrol engine. Its technology is incredibly complex, and it even features a regenerative braking system similar to Formula 1. With zero CO2 emissions, an 87 mile range, 54bhp output and even internal space to store your helmet, the Bultaco Rapitan is perfect for the city dweller looking for a 21st century way of travelling.

BMW CONCEPT ROADSTER, , BMW is a brand synonymous with innovation, and this is something they have shown with their BMW i line of cars. This BMW Concept Roadster follows in line with the brand’s ethos and sheds light on the direction they might be heading in the near future, with regards to motorcycles. Marrying the old with the new, this bike features BMW’s signature 2-cylinder boxer engine and surrounds it with a futuristic space frame design. The aggressive stance of the bike is backed up by its 125hp output too, and completing the modern/classic dynamic is the front headlight, which is a LED reinterpretation of the classic circular headlamp of years gone by.
