A nice feature is the frame...
A nice feature is the frame having a Schrader valve that can be used in case of compressor failure. Just remove the cap and pump the frame as you would your tire, then press the illuminated toggle switches and you're on your way.
Dave went on to explain that when considering both front and rear air-ride systems, you have to think about two compressors, twice the number of fittings, and more hoses and areas for leakage. "This system has half the fittings and only one compressor," Dave said. "The biggest advantage is the rise time, which is very critical. The rise time now from ground zero to almost 4 inches is from one to three seconds 'fast' and you can raise or lower the frontend about three to four times on one frame fill. This eliminates the original problem of battery drainage. Sure, you have it and you want to show how it works, but the more you show it the more the battery drains. No more having to hold the toggle switch up and down to pump in real time or vice versa." Although the system may sound somewhat complex, Dave claims it is pretty simple to understand and diagnose.
Aside from the innovative air-ride system, Dave also worked up a laundry list of design ideas he had bouncing around in his head and got straight to work. Since Dave knew that Edvinas would be making the rounds on the show circuit with his bike, he went all-in with a show-polished diamond-cut S&S 113ci motor, with spent gases handled by a custom exhaust. When it came to sheetmetal, Dave wanted a smooth-flowing look, so after pounding out a custom fuel tank and rear fender, all the tins were sent to Mike and Nick Ellul from MNK Custom Works for a HOK treatment of black and silver paint with inlaid silver leaf. Jim Ross worked on the graphics and the blood-red piping on the tank and fender. Other details that followed suit are the DDCC triangle motor mount/key switch housing, custom handlebars, and chain guard as well as the one-off RMD Billet Smooth 9 chrome and black three-piece wheels.
It seemed just as soon as Dave unveiled the D'Ultimate bike to Edvinas, the custom was already entered in bike shows and taking Best in Show trophies. "I remember his reaction when he saw the bike," Dave said. "He was speechless." Dave continued, "It's funny, you never know with some people, big talkers or not. You should treat everybody equal because you never know when they'll come back."