After conquering Europe on the asphalt, Babylon continues to rack up accolades. This time, the prestigious international magazine Bike EXIF, considered one of the world’s leading publications in the custom motorcycle universe, has dedicated an extensive feature to the spectacular Harley-Davidson created by Lord Drake Kustoms.
The publication represents further international support for the work done by Fran Manen and the entire Lord Drake Kustoms team, consolidating Babylon as one of the most important custom motorcycles of 2026.
Recognition from one of the most influential media outlets in the custom world
Bike EXIF โโselects only a small number of motorcycles each year from the best international customizers. Its publications have become a benchmark for enthusiasts, manufacturers, and builders worldwide.
The fact that Babylon has been chosen to star in one of their articles represents an important recognition of the level of design, manufacturing and creativity developed by Lord Drake Kustoms.
In its report, Bike EXIF โโtakes a comprehensive look at Fran Manen’s story, the workshop’s philosophy, and the Babylon creation process, highlighting the combination of classic elegance, technical innovation, and craftsmanship that characterizes this exclusive Harley-Davidson.
A motorcycle created to make history
Babylon was born with a very specific goal: to compete in the European H.O.G. Rally Custom Bike Show 2026 held in Cascais (Portugal).
With this historic triple win, Babylon was considered by both the jury and the public to be the best motorcycle of the event, also becoming one of the most photographed and admired custom motorcycles of the championship.
From a unique piece to an exclusive limited edition
The enormous international impact generated after its presentation, together with the extraordinary reception obtained among specialized media and clients from different countries, led Lord Drake Kustoms to make an unprecedented decision.
For the first time in the history of the workshop, Babylon will go from being a unique piece to becoming a worldwide limited edition of only 10 units, all of them handcrafted and made to order, maintaining exactly the same level of exclusivity and quality as the original motorcycle.
A new boost for the international projection of Lord Drake Kustoms
The publication in Bike EXIF โโconfirms the growing international projection of Lord Drake Kustoms and once again places the name of Mรกlaga among the main references in world custom motorcycling.
After the awards obtained in Cascais and the impact achieved in numerous specialized media, this new recognition demonstrates that the work developed by Fran Manen’s team continues to arouse admiration inside and outside of Europe.
For Lord Drake Kustoms, each motorcycle is a handcrafted work of art designed to thrill. Babylon was born to compete, ended up making history, and now it’s also featured in the pages of one of the most prestigious publications in the international custom motorcycle scene.
You can read the full article published by Bike EXIF โโhere:
For several days, thousands of motorcyclists from all over Europe gathered at one of the most important Harley-Davidson events in the world. The European H.O.G. Rally, which has more than three decades of history and brings together some of the best custom motorcycle builders on the continent, once again turned Cascais into the European capital of Harley-Davidson culture.
Lord Drake Kustoms arrived there with four customized Harley-Davidson motorcycles to compete in different categories of the prestigious Custom Bike Show.
What happened next exceeded all expectations.
An unprecedented record in 32 years of championship
Lord Drake Kustoms achieved a total of six grand prizes during the championship, becoming the big winner of the event.
The results obtained were:
Best of Show (BABYLON)
People’s Choice (BABYLON)
European Cruiser Champion (BABYLON)
European Off Road Champion (BULTRACKER 38/40)
European Off-Road Runner-Up (JAMBO)
Sportster European Runner-Up (NIGHTCRAWLER)
A historic performance that makes Lord Drake Kustoms and Fran Manen one of the most awarded contestants ever seen in a single edition of the European H.O.G. Rally.
For our team, this result represents the greatest sporting and competitive success achieved to date in a European Harley-Davidson championship.
BABYLONS: THE MOTORCYCLE THAT CONQUERED EUROPE
If there was an undisputed star of the weekend, it was Babylon.
This motorcycle was created specifically to compete in the Cruiser category, considered by many to be the premier category within the Custom Bike Show.
From the very first moment, it caught the attention of judges, participants, and the public.
Its combination of design, proportions, finishes, innovation and personality made it one of the most photographed motorcycles at the entire event.
The results spoke for themselves.
Babylon was proclaimed:
European Cruiser Champion
Best of Show
People’s Choice
With these awards, it not only became the most awarded Harley-Davidson in the championship, but also the most valued motorcycle by both the jury and the attending public.
In other words, among all the motorcycles present in Cascais, Babylon was considered the best.
HISTORIC DOUBLE IN THE OFF-ROAD CATEGORY
The Off Road category was another of the great successes for Lord Drake Kustoms.
Two of our scrambler-style Harley-Davidson motorcycles competed in this category, achieving an exceptional result:
Achieving first and second place in the same category within a European championship demonstrates the enormous level of work carried out by the entire team.
Each of these Harley scrambler motorcycles represents a different interpretation of the Adventure and Off Road concept applied to the Harley-Davidson universe.
EUROPEAN RUNNER-UP IN SPORTSTER
The fourth motorcycle presented by Lord Drake Kustoms competed in the Sportster category.
Against some of the best European transformations, it managed to achieve second place.
This result completed a perfect weekend for our company and confirmed Lord Drake Kustoms’ versatility in competing in completely different categories.
A JOURNEY OF YEARS TO THE GLOBAL ELITE
Cascais’ success is no accident. It’s the result of over a decade of hard work, innovation, and a passion for customization.
Since its founding, Lord Drake Kustoms has built motorcycles for customers all over the world and has been featured in hundreds of international publications.
Currently, its founder, Fran Manen, is internationally recognized as one of the most awarded Harley-Davidson builders in Europe.
Among his most outstanding achievements are:
Current runner-up in the Harley-Davidson Custom Bike Building World Championship.
The only Spaniard to have won at Daytona Bike Week.
One of the few builders in the world to have achieved victory at the Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show in the USA on three occasions.
Within the world of custom motorcycles, Daytona represents what the Oscars mean to film or the World Cup to football. It’s the stage where the best builders on the planet compete.
INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS AND PERSONALITIES
Over the years, the creations of Fran Manen and Lord Drake Kustoms have sparked the interest of numerous international clients and renowned personalities from the world of music, film, television and sports.
The reputation achieved by the company has allowed it to work with clients from different countries and collaborate with some of the best-known figures on the international scene, consolidating the image of Lord Drake Kustoms as one of the most recognized Spanish brands within the motorcycle customization sector.
The opinions and reviews following the championship confirm the impact of this achievement.
Beyond the trophies won in Cascais, one of the most rewarding aspects for the entire Lord Drake Kustoms team has been the reaction generated among fans, participants and industry professionals after the completion of the European H.O.G. Rally.
The opinions and reviews published in the days following the championship have especially highlighted the quality of the motorcycles presented by Lord Drake Kustoms, as well as the level of detail, innovation and finish shown in each of the four participating Harley-Davidsons.
The Babylon motorcycle, winner of the Best of Show, People’s Choice and European Cruiser Champion awards, has garnered much of the most prominent opinions and reviews of the event, becoming one of the most talked about and photographed motorcycles of the championship.
For our team, receiving recognition from judges and the public is an honor, but seeing how the opinions and reviews of attendees, specialized media and fans agree in valuing the work done is an additional satisfaction that gives even more value to the awards obtained.
This extraordinary set of accolades, together with the numerous positive opinions and reviews that emerged after the championship, confirms that the 2026 European H.O.G. Rally in Cascais will go down as one of the most important moments in the history of Lord Drake Kustoms.
THANK YOU ALL
None of this would be possible without our customers, followers, collaborators, and friends.
We would like to thank Harley-Davidson, the European H.O.G. Rally organization, all the participants and especially all the people who support our work every day.
We also want to dedicate these awards to the entire Lord Drake Kustoms team. Behind every motorcycle are hundreds of hours of work, effort, sacrifice, and attention to detail.
These awards belong to everyone.
THE FUTURE CONTINUES
The European H.O.G. Rally of Cascais is now part of Lord Drake Kustoms’ history.
However, for us it is not a goal.
It provides additional motivation to continue innovating, creating and building unique motorcycles for customers around the world.
From Lord Drake Kustoms to the world. And more eager than ever to continue making history.
Las Cafรฉ Racer no nacieron para pasear. Nacieron para correr.
At Lord Drake Kustoms we transform Harley-Davidson Sportsters into authentic Cafรฉ Racers, reinterpreting the original spirit of this style: lightweight, aggressive motorcycles designed with one idea in mindโฆ to go faster.
The Cafรฉ Racer spirit: design at the service of speed
The Cafรฉ Racer style emerged on the street, amidst impromptu races, mental stopwatches, and a clear obsession: reducing weight, improving posture, and gaining control.
A Cafรฉ Racer is:
Low, sporty posture
Tense and elongated lines
Closed handlebars
Clean and functional aesthetic
Nothing is decorative. Everything has a function.
Every Sportster Cafรฉ Racer we build follows this philosophy: motorcycles with presence, but above all, with purpose.
Any Sportster can be converted into a Cafรฉ Racer
The starting point is not a limit. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we work with any Harley Sportster manufactured between 2004 and 2022.
All models are valid: Custom, Low, Standard, R, Iron, Nightster, Forty-Eight, among others.
The original model or finish doesn’t matter. What’s important is the project and how it’s executed.
From production to real Cafรฉ Racer
Every Sportster to Cafรฉ Racer transformation is done entirely custom-made. We don’t use generic kits or standard solutions.
Our process includes:
Geometry and driving posture adjustment
Visual and functional streamlining of the whole
Manufacturing and adaptation of custom parts
Detailed work in lines, finishes and proportions
The goal is clear: a motorcycle that conveys speed even when stationary and feels precise while riding.
Because a Cafรฉ Racer isn’t about comfort. It’s about thrills.
Complete project, no complications
In addition to design and construction, at Lord Drake Kustoms we take care of the entire process so you don’t have to worry about anything:
Free collection and delivery throughout the Iberian Peninsula
Free quote
Homologation and ITV included
Your Sportster returns as a fully legal Cafรฉ Racer, ready to ride from day one.
Do you want to turn your Sportster into a Cafรฉ Racer?
If you imagine your Harley Sportster with Cafรฉ Racer aesthetics, an aggressive stance and a sporty character, at Lord Drake Kustoms we make it a reality.
There are motorcycles that come from the factory. And then there are those that are built with attitude.
At Lord Drake Kustoms we transform Harley-Davidson Sportsters into authentic Bobbers, eliminating everything superfluous to leave only the essentials: iron, engine and personality.
The Bobber spirit: less weight, more character
The Bobber style is born from a very clear idea: removing what is superfluous to gain presence and attitude.
Low profile, clean lines, aggressive stance, and a raw aesthetic that doesn’t try to please everyone. A Bobber isn’t comfortable, it isn’t discreet, and it isn’t standard. It’s a motorcycle with its own unique character.
Every Bobber transformation we perform follows that philosophy:
Elimination of unnecessary elements
Redefining posture and proportions
Manufacturing and adaptation of custom parts
Extreme attention to detail and the final finish
The result is a unique motorcycle, with identity and presence.
Any Sportster makes a good base.
It doesn’t matter the model or year. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we work on any Harley Sportster manufactured between 2004 and 2022.
All models are valid: Custom, Low, Standard, R, Iron, Nightster, Forty-Eight, among others.
There are no better or worse Sportsters here. There are projects that are well-planned and executed, as a true Bobber deserves.
A handcrafted process, designed for filming
Every Sportster to Bobber conversion is done completely custom-made. We don’t work with generic solutions or off-the-shelf kits.
We cut, adjust, and manufacture when necessary. Every line has a purpose. Every detail adds character.
And the whole process is carried out with one fundamental thing in mind: that the motorcycle not only impresses when stationary, but also works and is enjoyable to ride.
We make it easy: complete project, turnkey
In addition to design and transformation, at Lord Drake Kustoms we take care of everything so you don’t have to worry about a thing:
Free collection and delivery throughout the Iberian Peninsula
Free quote
Homologation and ITV included
You receive your Bobber ready to ride, completely legal and without surprises.
Do you want to turn your Sportster into a Bobber?
If you dream of an authentic, custom-made Harley Sportster Bobber with its own unique character, this is the place for you.
At Lord Drake Kustoms, we believe every motorcycle has hidden potential. If you own a Harley-Davidson Sportster and are looking for a more aggressive, versatile, and adventurous style, the Scrambler transformation is one of the most spectacular and well-rounded options available.
The best part is that any Sportster can be converted into a Scrambler.
Which Sportster models are compatible?
The database is broad and very flexible. We work with:
Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883
Harley-Davidson Sportster XL1200
Modelos desde 2004 hasta 2022
Any version or finish: Iron, Forty-Eight, Custom, Roadster, etc.
The year and original configuration don’t matter. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we tailor each project to the motorcycle and its owner’s style.
What is a Sportster Scrambler?
A Scrambler is a motorcycle with a free spirit. It combines classic aesthetics with a more functional and robust approach, ready to enjoy both asphalt and backroads.
Applied to a Sportster, this transformation results in a taller, visually lighter Harley with a commanding riding position and a radically different personality, without losing the brand’s DNA.
Key elements in the Scrambler transformation
Each project is unique, but there are a number of fundamental components that define this type of preparation:
Raised suspension. We increased the height and travel of the suspension to improve comfort, absorption, and the characteristic off-road aesthetics of the Scrambler.
Mixed wheels and tires. We fit tires with mixed or knobby tread patterns, which enhance the adventurous character and improve off-road performance.
High exhaust. The high-mounted exhaust is one of the most iconic elements of the Scrambler style. It adds personality, functionality, and a much more aggressive look.
Flat seat. Flat or tracker-style seats that clean up the bike’s lines, improve ergonomics, and reinforce the minimalist design.
Handlebars and riding position. Wider and higher handlebars that offer a comfortable, commanding and very fun riding position on all types of terrain.
Design and finishes. We work with understated colors, matte finishes, minimalist details, and trimmed fenders to achieve a balanced and timeless aesthetic.
Custom Scrambler Preparations
At Lord Drake Kustoms, we don’t mass-produce motorcycles. Each Sportster Scrambler is designed from the ground up, taking into account:
The client’s style
The intended use of the motorcycle
The available budget
We can perform anything from a basic transformation to a complete preparation, always with the highest level of detail and professional finishes.
The end result is a unique motorcycle. A Sportster that remains a Harley-Davidson, but with a much wilder, more versatile, and more personal approach.
If you’re thinking about transforming your Sportster into a Scrambler and want a serious, well-executed, and fully customized project, you’ve come to the right place.
Shall we talk about your project?
Get in touch with us and tell us your idea. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we’ll help you bring your vision to life with the Scrambler you have in mind.
2025 has been a particularly intense and creative year at Lord Drake Kustoms. Our workshop has once again demonstrated that motorcycle customization is not just a craft, but an art form, where each project becomes a unique piece with its own soul.
Next, we review some of the most outstanding custom motorcycles of 2025, true benchmarks of design, engineering and personality on two wheels.
BMW R12 NINE T JPS
An elegant and aggressive reinterpretation of the NineT, inspired by the legendary John Player Special livery. Deep black, gold details, and an imposing presence combine sportiness, exclusivity, and a finish worthy of a true jewel on wheels.
Extreme minimalism and bobber attitude brought to the Harley-Davidson Sportster. The combination of silver paint, clean lines, and a commanding stance makes this motorcycle a statement of intent: sobriety, power, and character.
An R100 with a dark, aggressive, and sophisticated cafรฉ racer spirit. Its classic racing aesthetic merges with a modern approach, creating a machine as beautiful as it is wild, designed to devour asphalt in style.
A contemporary beast with a 240mm rear tire and a futuristic aesthetic that’s sure to turn heads. The NeoRacer breaks the mold and redefines the muscle bike concept with its own unique personality.
Pure tracker essence, urban aggression, and high-level handcrafted details. The Bultracker 4038 is a machine designed for those seeking raw sensations and uncompromising design.
A tribute to the classic chopper, with a Springer fork and authentic old-school styling. This motorcycle exudes history, rebellion, and the original spirit of American custom motorcycles.
When the Nine T becomes an extreme supermoto. Lightweight, aggressive, and with a radical aesthetic that conveys speed even when stationary. One of the most daring transformations of the year.
A motorsport icon reimagined with a custom twist. The legendary Gulf livery merges with German engineering to create one of the most iconic and photographed motorcycles of 2025.
Dark, muscular, and devastating. The Vrod Darker is a machine that delivers raw power and a commanding presence. A radical interpretation of the modern muscle bike.
Futuristic aesthetics, extreme minimalism, and an overwhelming personality. The Stormtrooper looks like it’s from another galaxy and has become one of the workshop’s most recognizable creations.
2025 has cemented Lord Drake Kustoms’ position as one of the world’s leading custom motorcycle workshops. Each of these bikes embodies a philosophy, a vision, and an obsession with detail that drives us to continue creating unique machines for true motorcycle enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a motorcycle unlike any other, you’ve found it.
