Each piece is individually hand cast from solid bronze, by me, in my studio at the Hot Shops Art Center in Omaha, Nebraska.
I can make this design as a derby cover for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, a derby cover for Thunderstroke equipped Indian motorcycles, and an air filter cover for Arlen Ness Big Sucker style intakes.
Production lead time is approximately eight to 12 weeks.
Imagine a young rider, fresh-faced and eager, getting his very first motorcycle. As the engine roars to life, the anticipation is palpable, but it’s his wise old uncle who imparts a piece of wisdom that will forever echo in his ears. “Well, don’t fucking die,” he grins, his gravelly voice carrying years of experience.
That young rider was me, years ago. My uncle’s words become a mantra, a reminder to stay vigilant and embrace the thrill of the open road while respecting its dangers.
I decided I needed to capture those words in bronze, and this piece is the result. The high degree of sculpting in the letters really makes it stand out. This derby cover looks best with gloss clearcoat.
Original design Copyright © Omaha Derby Covers, Inc. All rights reserved.
What's Included
In addition to the derby cover, I include a James brand gasket (for certain sizes, where required), and black oxide coated mounting bolts. Feel free to use your existing mounting bolts if you prefer, but I like the look of the black oxide against the bronze patina.
Lead Time
All custom derby covers are made to order. Approximate production lead time is eight to twelve weeks, but is not guaranteed. If you have a situation (an upcoming ride, an event, etc) that means you need it sooner, please contact me first and I will see what I can do. Please understand that I really do make these by hand in my own shop. Bronze art casting will always have a certain failure rate, and I will not ship a custom derby cover I am not proud of.
Derby Cover Sizing
I support six different derby cover sizes, covering all Big Twins and most Sportsters made since 1970. Complete details on derby cover sizing are located here. If you are unsure of which one you need, give me a call at 402 321 9639. We'll get it worked out.
Maintenance
If you select either gloss of matte 2k clearcoat, your derby cover is maintenance free. Just wash with the same mild soap you use on the rest of your motorcycle, and dry with a soft cloth. Do not use polishing compounds or other abrasives on your clearcoated derby cover.
If you select a natural bronze finish, your derby cover will darken and patina with age. If you want to maintain its original appearance, you will need to polish it regularly (Brasso works well), and apply a coating of paste wax.
