With a more than 40-year bike building career starting in the 1970s, Arlen Ness was one of the most all-time influential figures in the custom motorcycle and cruiser worlds. Ness’ accolades are too many to mention but included being inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame, honored as a “Legend Of The Sport” at the prestigious Quail Moto Gathering, and given the “Lifetime Achievement” Award at Sturgis, not to mention playing a pivotal role in inspiring many of today’s leading custom moto shops like Roland Sands Design and Rough Crafts. Sadly, last year on March 22nd, Arlen Ness passed away at the age of 79, leaving behind an enormous legacy, and a variety of his own personal bikes.
One such bike that was previously under Ness’ ownership is now on the digital online auction block, seeking a new home: a 1963 Harley-Davidson Duo-Glide that Ness lightly modified and fitted with a side-hack for transporting goods and parts. (The sidecar, wheel, and its framework can be removed, allowing the bike to operate as a normal single-track motorcycle). Arlen Ness’ 1963 Harley-Davidson Duo-Glide is currently available through the Barlett Auction House in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada where it’s expected to fetch between $27,800 to $30,725.
