Labour of love results in international recognition
Andy Martin’s journey with vintage motorcycles began when he was six, ‘kicking the leg over a dirt bike for the first time’. Inspired by his grandfather’s stories of his own old Indian bikes, his fascination grew, leading him to discover Harley Davidsons and the American chopper scene. Over a decade ago, he purchased his first vintage Harley, a black Shovelhead. This cherished bike remains a part of his collection and will feature at the upcoming Starinsure Southern Motorcycle Show in Dunedin on the 1st and 2nd of February 2025.
Martin’s standout creation is his 1948 Harley-Davidson Panhead, a bike he built from scratch over two and a half years, with parts sourced worldwide, primarily from the United States. In total, the project demanded over 700 hours of labour, a testament to Andy’s dedication and craftsmanship. The bike was then shipped to the United States, where it competed in the Biltwell People’s Championship, winning the title and earning international recognition.
But Martin’s love of motorcycles goes beyond building them. After the Biltwell championship, he embarked on an unforgettable road trip across California, riding through scenic routes from San Clemente to San Francisco and exploring iconic national parks like Yosemite and Sequoia. Racking up over 4,000 kilometres without major breakdowns, Andy proved the reliability of his custom Panhead while experiencing the joy of the open road.
He is excited to showcase his creations at the Starinsure Southern Motorcycle Show, which promises to be a vibrant event uniting riders and fans from across the region.
“It’s exciting to have a show like this in Dunedin. Events like these are a chance to meet people you wouldn’t otherwise meet and discover bikes you never knew existed. You never know what hidden gems will emerge from local sheds.”
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Alongside his award-winning Panhead, he will display two more custom vintage Harley Davidsons, including the beloved Shovelhead.
Martin reckons the world of motorcycles is more than a hobby; it’s a way of life.
“It’s been a blessing and a curse,” he admits, reflecting on the emotional and financial investment required to maintain his passion. Yet, the satisfaction of building, riding, and sharing his creations with others makes it all worthwhile.
Whether you’re a die-hard motorcycle enthusiast, a casual fan, or just looking for an exciting way to spend the weekend, the Starinsure Southern Motorcycle Show is an event you won’t want to miss.
For more information visit: southernmotorcycleshow.nz
