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Harley-Davidson Goes Husqvarna in SS&C's Dreams

A Harley-Davidson transformed into a retro Husqvarna is definitely one thing we don’t run into every day. However, for UK’s Shaw Speed& Custom workshop such a bike is only a dream come true. Used to creating mind-boggling machined out of stock Harleys, SS&C is not afraid to tread on new paths… and the result is a most rewarding one. So here’s the SS&C 1200 Cross, the intriguing blend of classic European machine and Harley DNA.
SS&C 1200 Cross 15 photos
Photo: Shaw Speed & Custom
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For SS&C it was clear that the 2010 Forty-Eight Sportster had to be torn down to the bare frame, as major modifications were expected. The fender rails went away, and the chassis drilled for internal wiring and a clean, tidy look, with all the unnecessary brackets and mounting points removed as well.

The new looks draw their cues from two of Steve McQueen’s famous machines: the 1964 Triumph TR6 ISDT motorcycle and his even more famous 1971 Husqvarna 400 Cross. In order to enhance the retro looks and add to the intended racing purpose, Shaw Speed& Custom also worked on the Honda-like brakes. The front drum is a 4-shoe design from an old Honda 250 Four, while the rear 2-shoe drum comes from a Honda 500 Four.

The fuel tank is a Harley one, despite some might swear it’s a Husky. The gauge in mounted on the steering stem, and together with the old-school motocross bars, vintage grips and Italian-style gas cap, the 1200 Cross looks more authentic than many other similar builds. SS&C crafted the seat pan and got a bespoke leather seat on it, adding to the era-correct feeling.

Stainless steel pipes and Ohlins suspensions were fitted, alongside Burley pegs, a Roland Sands Design sprocket cover, SS&C fenders and pressed number plates, all covered in an unmistakable Husqvarna livery signed by Image Design Custom. And since we’re speaking retro tongue, the final transmission was changed to a chain one, while Continental Twinduro tires make the bike dirt-ready.

It’s really hard to describe how cool this machine is, but we can tell it’s a glorious way to celebrate the 5th anniversary for SS&C’s website.
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