The Catalyst Custom CB1000RR Finds New Owner

Cycle World's Project Bike by Gregg's Customs for Ride for Kids, called The Catalyst, was raffled for charity purposes, with Giovanni Velez of Lakewood, N.J. as the lucky winner. This was, in fact, as an early birthday gift for Velez, who turned 21 two days after the drawing.

He was stunned to learn that he had won the Honda CBR1000RR, which custom builder Gregg DesJardins had transformed into a retro racer called the “Catalyst.” “I have my motorcycle permit, but I’ve never had a bike before,” Velez said. “I decided to buy a ticket to help out the charity. This is too good to be true!”

This year’s drawing raised more than $53,000 to benefit the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF). It has brought in over $612,000 in donations since 2000.

“We are so proud of everyone who pitched in to make the Catalyst such a big success,” said Kyle Clack, PBTF Ride for Kids marketing director. “Gregg DesJardins put together a very special CBR1000RR and each ticket purchased will continue to fuel our work well into the future. Once again, the kids are the winners and the motorcycling community has shown the world that we are the good guys.”

"The Catalyst" started as a stock 2010 CBR1000RR donated by American Honda, presenting sponsor of the PBTF Ride for Kids. Many other companies provided parts and craftsmanship, including Performance Machine, Dunlop, Leo Vince, Sport Chrome, Drive Systems USA, Kyle Racing, Galfer, Corbin, EMI Group and Colorzone Designs.

The approximate retail value of the motorcycle, including delivery, is $13,399 plus $800 delivery. However, if the winner resides in Alaska or Hawaii, he will be responsible for arranging and paying for shipping and delivery.