The world of customized motorcycles is undeniably large, making it harder than ever to keep tabs on every notable build, reconstruction, and revision. But every once in a while, we’re introduced to a builder/shop that makes us question just how many beautiful renditions fall beneath our purview. The 1971 BSA A65 Thunderbolt you see here, built by the talented minds behind Soiatti Moto Classiche, is one such example.
This two-wheeled wonder is certainly a treat for the eyes, but droves of sincere compliments and elaborate explanations of the bike’s various attributes could never do it justice. The same thing can be said of the motorcycle’s builders, a father and son team hailing from the eclectic expanses of northwest Italy. Daniele Soiatti and his son Alberto have spent a staggering number of years passing on the secrets of motorcycle modification, taking on a variety of Concours-level restorations and vintage projects that have made them a lauded presence within the classic community. After acquiring the Thunderbolt’s donor platform following an unfortunate series of events, the two took to the drawing board to create something immensely unique — a nostalgic steed adorned in Cadillac blue, veiling oil-in-frame tubing, a transparent head, replaced pistons, and a set of polished aluminum engine covers. Nearly every piece of the platform, including its adjustable Bitubo shocks, Renthal tracker bars, and custom front and side number plates were chosen, and implemented, with an intent to commemorate the world of vintage American flat track racing. And if you ask us, we’d say they did a damn good job.
