Being a motorcycle accessories specialist, it is only natural to find innovative ways to showcase your products to the public. The goal is not only to sell, but also to create a memorable experience that people will talk about. That’s exactly what the folks at SW-Motech France had in mind when they built a custom bike following the rules of the King of the Baggers Championship.
Baggers aren’t as popular in Europe as they are in the US, so SW-Motech France saw this as an opportunity to challenge themselves. They started with a 2022 Harley-Davidson Road Glide ST and collaborated with partners from various areas of the motorcycle performance parts industry in Europe. Vincent Arnoult of Parts Europe and Drag Specialties provided guidance on the engine build and parts recommendations. Christophe Roussilhes of suspension specialist PFP Öhlins, Etienne Bocard of brake specialist Beringer, and Antoine Arcaro of tire specialist Metzeler also contributed to the development of the project.
10 Photos
The build highlights include several engine modifications such as an S&S 131 cylinder and piston kit, a new camshaft, valves, reinforced springs, roller rocker arms, injectors, and an S&S oil pump. Overall, the team estimates that the bike now produces 46% more power than the stock unit, with over 140 horsepower at the rear wheel (up from the claimed 97 horsepower) and an increase in torque from 160 newton-meters to 216 newton-meters.
The transmission received upgrades as well, including a Barnett Scorpion reinforced clutch kit and a 7-gear Baker gearbox. Other performance enhancements consist of an Öhlins FGR 250 superbike fork, Öhlins HD 044 rear shocks, Slyfox machined aluminum 17-inch wheels with Metzeler Racetec RR slicks, an Alloy Art machined swingarm, a Beringer brake and clutch system, and a BS lithium battery. The team also removed the ABS from the bike as part of the build.
The project was unveiled at the High Side Ride Festival in France in May 2023 with the help of French WSBK racer Lucas Mahias. The bike was kept a secret until the unveiling, adding an element of surprise for Mahias. He took the bike for hot laps, wheelies, and entertained the crowd with his skills. SW-Motech France plans to showcase the completed King of the Baggers project bike at other shows throughout the season in Europe.