"In a car you're always in a compartment, and because you're used to it you don't realize that through that car window everything you see is just more TV... On a cycle the frame is gone. You're completely in contact with it all. You're in the scene, not just watching it anymore, and the sense of presence is overwhelming."

-Robert M. Pirsig

"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!"

-Hunter S. Thompson

Charlie's

Vintage Kustoms

Specializing in the modification and restoration of pre-1990 motorcycles.

Projects

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New!
We're now hosting radio archives for Marx Marvelous and the Cosmic Paradigm Shift Radio Show. Check it out here or catch it live most Friday nights 2:00 - 4:00pm. US Mountain time on Radio Free Minturn.

 

Since I first began researching Russian motorcycles after moving to Bulgaria in 2005 I have actively attempted to compile a library of technical documents on early IMZ and KMZ motorcycles. I have also gained, through circumstances both opportunistic and unfortunate, a bit of mechanical experience.

Electrical diagrams, arcane historical documents, ramblings of madmen and naked dancing girls: all integral parts of the biker lifestyle and all encompassed within these furtive bits of digital code that make the internet tick. I hope you find it enjoyable. A primary intent in this reconstruction has been to make this information more mobile accessible: I have come to realize that the vast majority of people stranded on the roadside and desperately trying to find their motorcycle manual may not be readily equipped with a laptop computer.

If you're interested in having a bike customized or restored to your specifications hit me up.

Keep the rubber side down,
Charlie