Few people can say they’ve turned their passion into a lifestyle. Fran Manen has achieved just that. Founder of Lord Drake Kustoms, this Malaga native, who lives between Spain and the United States, has established himself as one of the most internationally recognized motorcycle customizers, with creations that have toured the world and earned prestige in magazines, trade shows, and competitions.
Today we sat down with him to talk about his beginnings, his philosophy, and his vision of the custom world. If there’s one word that defines this conversation, it’s authentic. Just like his bikes.
Fran, how did it all begin? When did you decide to pursue a career in customs?
From a very young age, I was drawn to the aesthetics of rock and motorcycles. It was that rebellious, free, very visual universe… I started riding motorcycles as a teenager and always had the urge to modify something, to customize. But it wasn’t until 2007, after working in other sectors, that I decided to set up Lord Drake Kustoms in Miami. I wanted to unite what I was passionate about: design, motorcycles, and the custom aesthetic.
Why in Miami and not in Spain?
At that time, the United States was the mecca of custom riding. The movement there had a different dimension. There were more opportunities, more of a biker culture in that sense. I wanted to develop, to grow, and to do that, I had to be where everything was happening. It was a risky decision, but over time, it proved to be key to the evolution of my career.
And how was the jump back to Europe?
In 2013, I decided to open the Lord Drake Kustoms workshop in Málaga, my hometown. It was a way to bring everything I learned in America and adapt it to a European audience, with a slightly more restrained but equally passionate style. Today, we have a presence in more than 20 countries, and our bikes have reached places like Dubai, Germany, France, and Mexico.
What characterizes a motorcycle made by Fran Manen?
I always say that every motorcycle tells a story. I’m not interested in simply making an aesthetic change, but rather in completely transforming a motorcycle’s personality. My designs draw influences from rock, urban art, American culture, cinema… but also from the client. I try to connect with them, understand what they want to convey, and from there, shape it through design and customization.
Is there any model or project that you remember fondly?
Many, but if I had to single out one, it would probably be the “Bultracker 72” or the “Speedster,” which have received international acclaim. I also have a special fondness for the cafe racer and scrambler-style Harley-Davidsons we build in the workshop. But beyond the awards, what gives me the most satisfaction is seeing the customer’s face when they see their finished bike for the first time.
What is the creative process like at Lord Drake Kustoms?
Each project is unique. First, we listen to the client, their ideas, tastes, and lifestyle. Then we create a digital design, which sets us apart because it allows the client to see how their bike will look before we begin. Then the craftsmanship begins: disassembly, frame modification, paint, upholstery, electronics… Everything is done with care, as if each bike were made for me.
What do you think about the current custom scene in Spain and Europe?
It has grown significantly in recent years, both in quality and culture. It used to be more niche, but now there’s a strong, passionate, and creative community. Still, there’s a lack of institutional support, especially regarding approvals and regulations, which often hinder innovation.
What role does music play in your work?
A fundamental role! I’ve always been a huge fan of rock and metal. In fact, my image, like that of many musicians, has been linked to the biker style. I have a very good relationship with people like Paco Ventura, from Medina Azahara, who has even collaborated with me on some motorcycles. When I design, I usually have music playing in the background, and I’m often inspired by album covers, guitars, concert aesthetics… Music and motorcycles have something in common: both are a form of freedom and personal expression.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a customizer?
Balancing the artistic side with the legal and business aspects. Creating is one thing, but making a living from it and maintaining a workshop on two continents, with international shipping, approvals, and client management… that’s a whole other level. But I like it. It keeps me constantly on the move.
Where does the future of Lord Drake Kustoms lie?
We want to continue growing internationally, consolidate our presence in Europe, and continue exporting motorcycles to increasingly distant destinations. We’re also working on new product lines and merchandising, and we have an audiovisual project in mind to tell the story behind each motorcycle. And, above all, we want to remain true to our style.
Fran Manen isn’t just a figurehead in the custom world. He’s a tireless creator, a dreamer who transforms steel, paint, and leather into emotions on two wheels. At Lord Drake Kustoms, each motorcycle is a work of art. And like all authentic works, it’s born from passion.
Want to transform your motorcycle into a one-of-a-kind piece? Discover Fran Manen’s world here: www.franmanen.com
Are you new to the world of custom motorcycles and don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we’ve been transforming motorcycles into true works of art on wheels for years, and we want to share a basic guide with you to help you start customizing your bike easily, safely, and with style.
1. Define your style
Before touching a single part, think: Do you like the café racer, bobber, scrambler, or brat style? Each has a distinct aesthetic and personality. Do your research, find inspiration (Pinterest, Instagram, motorcycle magazines), and decide which style best suits you and your type of bike.
2. Set a budget
Customizing a motorcycle doesn’t have to be expensive, but it’s essential to know how much you’re willing to invest. Start with small changes and progress gradually.
3. Start with the basics
Some simple modifications you can make as a beginner:
Change the handlebars: improve your posture and radically change your style.
Install new rearview mirrors (bar-end, round, café racer type…).
Replacing the seat: a custom or tailor-made one can make all the difference.
Vinyl or custom paint on tank and side covers.
Replace your turn signals and lights with more modern LED options.
Custom exhaust: Change the sound and aesthetics, but make sure it’s legal in your country.
4. Safety and legality above all
Make sure your modifications comply with traffic regulations. In many countries, some parts must be homologated. Always consult a professional before making major structural changes.
5. Do it yourself… or with professional help
If you have mechanical skills and tools, you can try some improvements yourself. But for more complex transformations, it’s best to go to a specialized customization workshop, like ours in Malaga and Miami.
6. Take care of every detail
Small details make the difference:
Black or brass hardware
Custom grips
Chopped fenders
Relocating the license plate holder
Chassis painting
7. Maintenance and review
A custom motorcycle shouldn’t just look good: it should work perfectly. After every modification, check that everything is properly adjusted, secure, and working as it should. Aesthetics without safety are useless.
Ready to get started?
Customizing your motorcycle is a way to express yourself, turning something standard into something that bears your signature and your character. If you need help, inspiration, or prefer professionals to take care of your project, at Lord Drake Kustoms we’re ready to help you create the bike of your dreams.
Motorcycle customization isn’t just a matter of style; it’s also a statement of personality, a technical improvement, and an experience that marks the difference between the ordinary and the extraordinary. If you’re thinking about transforming your bike, here are five good reasons to leave it in the hands of a professional customization workshop like Lord Drake Kustoms.
1. Experience and technical knowledge
A professional workshop has years of experience modifying all types of motorcycles: Harley-Davidson, Triumph, BMW, Honda, Yamaha… They know every mechanical and aesthetic detail, and know how to transform your bike while respecting safety, certification, and road reliability.
2. Custom design to another level
At Lord Drake Kustoms, we don’t work with templates. We design your motorcycle from scratch, listening to your ideas and contributing our creativity and experience to create a unique piece. Each project is unique and designed to reflect your style and personality.
3. Quality in the finishes
From the paint job to the last screw, quality is a priority. We use premium materials and professional processes to achieve long-lasting, durable, and visually stunning results. No botched jobs or temporary fixes—just flawless finishes.
4. Legality and approval
Many “pirate” workshops make modifications without considering the regulations. At LDK, we ensure that each motorcycle complies with current legislation so you can enjoy it without problems. We approve all necessary modifications and advise you throughout the entire process.
5. Passion for motorcycles
Beyond the technical work, at Lord Drake Kustoms there’s a true passion for the world of motorsports. We embrace the custom culture, participate in international events, and work on each bike as if it were our own. That passion is evident in every project we deliver.
Are you ready to transform your motorcycle?
Trust an internationally renowned workshop like Lord Drake Kustoms and take your motorcycle to the next level.
Ordering a custom motorcycle is an exciting decision, but it also requires planning and clarity. It’s not just about changing parts or colors; it’s about creating a unique machine that reflects your personality, your lifestyle, and your needs on two wheels. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we’ve been transforming motorcycles into true works of art for years, and that’s why we want to help you know what aspects you should consider before embarking on the adventure.
1. Define your style
First of all, ask yourself: what kind of bike do you want? A café racer, scrambler, bobber,brat, tracker, chopper style? Each one has a different aesthetic and riding position. It’s important to be clear not only about what you like visually, but also what fits with the bike’s intended use.
2. Realistic budget
Customizing a motorcycle isn’t the same as buying a brand-new one. The cost will depend on the base model, materials, modifications, and, above all, the level of detail and exclusivity you desire. Also consider possible additional costs such as shipping, certification, and maintenance. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we help you tailor your project to your budget without sacrificing quality.
3. Choose a suitable base
Not all motorcycles are equally versatile for customization. Some are easier to transform, while others require more work or have technical limitations. Harley-Davidson, BMW, Triumph, Yamaha, and Royal Enfield, for example, are popular models for this type of project. If you already have a motorcycle, we can advise you on its feasibility as a base for conversion.
4. Use and ergonomics
Will you be using your custom motorcycle daily, only on weekends, or on long rides? Do you prefer a more relaxed or sporty ride? All of these factors influence the choice of seat, suspension, tires, and handlebars. The design should be as functional as it is aesthetic.
5. Legality and approval
A crucial point. Any modification must comply with current regulations to be legally operated. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we handle the approval process and adapt all the elements so your motorcycle is 100% legal and ready to ride without problems.
6. Choose a professional workshop
Commissioning a custom motorcycle isn’t simply about modifying a bike: it’s about trusting a team that understands your vision and knows how to bring it to life. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we work on each project with craftsmanship, advanced technology, and the finest materials. We support you throughout the entire process, from the initial idea to the delivery of your bike, ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
Ordering a custom motorcycle is a unique and very personal experience. That’s why it’s essential to surround yourself with experienced professionals, like the team at Lord Drake Kustoms, who can advise you and make your dream a reality on wheels.
In the world of two-wheeled motorcycles, there’s a question that every lover of historic motorcycles asks themselves sooner or later: should they restore classic bikes or transform a custom one? At Lord Drake Kustoms, we’ve been working on both paths for years, and we know that each has its own unique soul. But… which is the best option? The answer isn’t as simple as it seems.
Restoring classic motorcycles: back to the origins
Restoring a classic motorcycle means respecting its history, its essence, and its original spirit. It’s a painstaking, almost archaeological process that seeks to return the bike to the look and performance it had the day it left the factory.
Advantages of restoration:
Historical value: A faithfully restored motorcycle can become a true collector’s item.
Appreciation: Well-restored classic models often increase in value over time.
Authenticity: Riding a motorcycle that remains true to its era has a charm that’s hard to beat.
Ideal for…
Collectors, purists, and motorcycling history enthusiasts who seek to preserve the essence of the greatest brands and models.
Custom transformation: freedom on two wheels
On the other hand, transforming a classic motorcycle into a custom is an exercise in creativity and personality. It’s about taking a foundation steeped in history and transforming it into a unique work of art, tailored to the taste, style, and needs of its owner.
Advantages of customization:
Unique design: no one else will have a motorcycle like yours.
Modern improvements: Mechanical and technological improvements can be incorporated without sacrificing the classic soul.
Personal expression: Your motorcycle becomes an extension of your character and style.
Ideal for…
Those looking for something different, functional, and aesthetically groundbreaking, unafraid to challenge the established order and eager to forge their own path.
So… which option is better?
The choice between restoration or customization is up to you:
Are you looking to preserve history or create your own?
Do you prefer fidelity to the original design or the freedom to reinvent?
At Lord Drake Kustoms, we don’t believe one option is better than the other. What we do believe is that every motorcycle has a story worth telling, whether as it was… or however you choose to tell it.
And you, would you restore or transform your motorcycle?
In the world of custom motorcycles, it’s not just about powerful engines or aggressive lines. There’s something much deeper: a form of expression, a lifestyle, and an artistic statement in motion. At Lord Drake Kustoms, we’ve been proving for years that a motorcycle can be as impactful as a work of contemporary art or a high-end fashion runway.
Art on two wheels
Every motorcycle that leaves our workshop is not simply a mechanical transformation. It’s a work of art, where every detail counts. From the chassis design to the paint finish, we spend hours thinking about how to convey an emotion, a story, or a unique aesthetic. We use airbrushing, hand-brushing, and custom finishes that make each motorcycle a one-of-a-kind piece.
Fashion and attitude
Fashion has always been linked to the world of motorsports. Leather jackets, custom helmets, boots, and accessories are part of a style that goes beyond the road. But in recent years, we’ve seen how custom motorcycles have also inspired clothing designers, photographers, and brands seeking that rebellious, free, and authentic spirit that two wheels represent.
A style that leaves its mark
Each customized motorcycle reflects its owner’s personality. It’s a mirror of their tastes, their attitude, and their way of seeing the world. That’s why working with our clients is like collaborating with another artist. Together, we shape something that not only roars, but also speaks, excites, and sets trends.
Motorcycles that inspire
Today, more than ever, the boundaries between creative disciplines are blurring. Art, fashion, and industrial design intersect, blend, and reinvent each other. And at that intersection is where we live: a customization workshop converted into a creative studio, where metal, paint, and passion merge to give life to machines with soul.
Do you have an idea, a style, or an inspiration that you want to see turned into a motorcycle? At Lord Drake Kustoms, we help you create your own work of art on wheels.
