Back before tattoos were mainstream and you couldn’t get them at shopping malls to go with your venti cappuccino, they were badges of honor sported by sailors, outlaws, and people who actually were edgy, versus people who just wanted to look edgy. In 2016, Trevelen Rabanal built this awesome Shovelhead chopper for Michael Lichter’s “Skin & Bones” exhibit with just that “remember when…” in mind. He called this bike his last build, and here’s what he had to say about it at the time.

“Tattoos were cool when convicts and outlaws proudly displayed them on their bodies. Now it has turned into another bad fashion trend and a useless form of art in society. The word ‘tattoo’ comes from the Samoan word ‘tatau.’ A man could only wear his ‘Pe’a’ after he was blessed by a high chief from the village. In prison you wore a tattoo as a badge of honor and pride with bragging rights if it had a political connection. Who you were, how long you did, or what neighborhood you were from told your story. This motorcycle I display is named ‘Huero Loco’ and pays homage to a very close friend of mine who had a big influence on me and my career. With all that has been said, this is my last show and motorcycle I will ever build—for any event. My time has come to take a bow and leave gracefully from motorcycles. So enjoy this last build and my final show. It’s been an incredible journey.”

If you’re going to go out, go big. This chopper is an awesome goodbye to the industry.

Michael Lichter Photography

The 1969 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead motor, all done up nice.

Michael Lichter Photography

That gold metalflake seat, though.

Michael Lichter Photography

It may be engraved, but this motor has seen its share of miles too.

Michael Lichter Photography

I’m betting that Harley-Davidson springer fork isn’t exactly stock length.

Michael Lichter Photography

Narrow bars bracket the shield-shaped headlight.

Michael Lichter Photography

Like a good whiskey, the primary packs a smooth finish.

Michael Lichter Photography

Flawless molding on the frame at the neck and tank.

Michael Lichter Photography

The most beautiful part of this bike may be in its masterful execution.

Michael Lichter Photography