Indian Motorcycle Spotlights Unknown Builders with “The Wrench: Scout Bobber Build Off” Competition

Minneapolis, MN (March 5, 2018) – There was a time when building custom motorcycles came with zero promise of fame or fortune. Instead, it was purely about the love of chopping, welding and grinding on sheet metal. Indian Motorcycle^®, America’s first motorcycle company founded in 1901, today announced The Wrench: Scout Bobber Build Off competition. A custom motorcycle competition unlike any other, The Wrench celebrates those who find their sense of identity, purpose and glory, spending painstaking hours wrenching on garage builds.

Indian Motorcycle, along with Hot Bike magazine and a panel of expert judges, featuring Roland Sands, Satya Kraus, Jason Paul Michaels and Hot Bike Editor-in-Chief Jordan Mastagni are seeking three of the most-talented motorcycle craftsmen in the country with the vision and talent to transform stock Indian Scout Bobbers into one-off works of custom motorcycle art. The competition is not open to professional builders and contestants cannot make a living customizing motorcycles. Instead, Indian Motorcycle is looking for everyday wrenchers, home builders and amateur customizers who tinker in the garage for the passion, not the pay. Motorcycle industry professionals, such as a mechanic or salesperson, are welcomed to submit.

From March 15-30, amateur builders can submit to be one of three chosen participates. From April 3-13, the top submissions will be showcased online and available for fan voting.

“We wanted to create a program that would celebrate the unsung heroes who spend countless hours wrenching on their bikes. The men and women who don’t do it for recognition or notoriety, but solely for self-expression and the pure art of customizing a motorcycle,” said Reid Wilson, Senior Director – Marketing and Product Planning for Indian Motorcycle. “Last year we saw what professionals could do with the Scout Bobber platform when Kraus Motor, Keino Cycles and RSD unveiled incredible designs at the Brooklyn Invitational. This year, we’re turning the spotlight away from the pros, and shining it on everyday wrenchers.”

Indian Motorcycle will arm each amateur builder with a new 2018 stock Indian Scout Bobber and provide a build budget of $10,000. Participants will design and create their own take on the stripped-down, 100 horsepower cruiser. The three custom Scout Bobbers will be unveiled in July, followed by a fan vote. The winner will be announced at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and will receive a $10,000 grand prize along with a feature spread in Hot Bike magazine.

To enter, wrenchers can visit IndianMotorcycle.com and submit 500 words explaining their build plans and why they’re deserving to be one of three participants. Submissions should include a sketch or digital design rendering of their customized Scout Bobber concept, along with descriptions and imagery of previous builds. Those submitting are asked to include any references who can reinforce their talent and justify their skills. Video submissions are also welcomed. 

For more information on Indian Motorcycle, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. Follow along or join the conversation by using #TheWrenchIMC.