Johan's ability to build a nice 60's style bike first caught my eye years ago when he would post photos of his Triumph Preunit to Jockey Journal. At the time I remember thinking he was a lucky dude for having a set of Flanders U Risers. We sat down to ask him about the Swedish motorcycle scene and how his bikes have evolved over the years.
Name: Johan Thoren
Age: 55
Location: Sweden
Day job: Mechanical Designer
Current Bikes: 1951 Triumph 650 Thunderbird
1947 Harley Davidson Knucklehead
When did you get into bikes and why?
Always been interested in bikes since childhood, my uncle had a CB750. I remember it made a huge impression on my 10 year old self.
First Road Bike?
BSA M21
How do you approach building bikes? What is your process?
I'm all into 60's style bikes so I just find so many old pictures and magazines as possible. My process is find a lot of parts and do a lot of mock ups.
Where did you learn to work on bikes?
By myself
How would you define your style?
60's
What's your workshop setup like?
I've very little tools, just handheld tools. Any welding and machining I get help with. But paint I do outside my garage.
You're in Sweden. What is the motorbike scene like there? Is it difficult to get parts?
I would say it's good here. There are a lot of cool bikes and nice people. Is it difficult to get parts. No, it can take some time but eventually you could find whatever NOS cocktail shaker or what you are into. There are also a handful of cool dudes here making new awesome parts.
Any projects in the works?
No. I just built the two that change look from time to time
What's your dream bike?
A 60's show bike with lots of chrome!!
If you are interested in checking out more photos of his bikes and how they have evolved over the years head over to his instagram page (link below).