Indian Unveils Azzkikr Custom Baggers Springfield At Daytona Bike Week

Evans Brasfield
by Evans Brasfield

Including a Hand-Built Springer Front End!

One of the popular truths of cruisers is that custom bikes sell stock ones because they appeal to buyers’ dreams. Try to think of any recently cruiser model that didn’t have a factory-sponsored custom. With the release of the 2016 Indian Springfield, we figured that a custom example was only a matter of time, predicting that it would be a venue for showing off the factory accessory catalog, but when builder Len Edmonson of Azzkikr Custom Baggers took the wraps off his latest creation, the Pioneer 111, we were stunned. He’d created a bespoke springer front end for the Springfield, which lengthened the bike to close to 10 feet.

A springer front end with faux drum brake dual discs.

The springer front end wraps its arms around a 26-inch front wheel, embracing what looks similar to a vintage hub. Instead, the Springfield’s dual discs are covered to achieve the effect. The rear suspension has an air adjustable shock to keep the bags low to the ground when parked but allow them to be jacked up to a more street-reasonable height for riding.

The extensively redesigned tank is actually the OEM tank recovered so that the fuel system’s operation will still meet DOT standards. In fact, all of the performance modifications to the engine were made with the goal of them being OEM-quality in terms of performance and reliability. On top of the tank, the customized dash has a more vintage look. All of the changes are hand-made while maintaining the stock frame – meaning the foot controls (including a pedal-operated clutch and hand shift assembly), levers, handlebar – even the futuristic headlight nacelle plus the integrated turn signals – and the huge saddlebags that carry Azzkikr’s signature styling. The saddlebags also have internal supports to hold the lids open while loading.

If you’re interested in seeing the Pioneer 111 in the flesh, drop by the Indian display at the Motor Speedway’s vendor area throughout Bike Week.

Evans Brasfield
Evans Brasfield

Like most of the best happenings in his life, Evans stumbled into his motojournalism career. While on his way to a planned life in academia, he applied for a job at a motorcycle magazine, thinking he’d get the opportunity to write some freelance articles. Instead, he was offered a full-time job in which he discovered he could actually get paid to ride other people’s motorcycles – and he’s never looked back. Over the 25 years he’s been in the motorcycle industry, Evans has written two books, 101 Sportbike Performance Projects and How to Modify Your Metric Cruiser, and has ridden just about every production motorcycle manufactured. Evans has a deep love of motorcycles and believes they are a force for good in the world.

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  • AZgman AZgman on Mar 10, 2016

    I think this design is pure crap. Different, just to be different. It has no practical or esthetic value. YMMV

  • Douglas Douglas on Mar 10, 2016

    IMHO, that is one homely scoot. Mercifully, I see the dragbagger craze fading. 'Course, who knows what silly fad will replace it....

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