T
he “Scotchster” was originally the “Messenger,” a home-built bike belonging to Dr. G, who was a great guy and a great customer who unfortunately passed away a few years ago. When he passed, Jacob Cutler of Barnstorm Cycles purchased two of his bikes from his family, The “Messenger,” and “Inferno” (an FXR), he also helped them sell a third. Dr. G was passionate about his motorcycles and had many hours into every detail of his machines. He had spent years developing them, and one couldn’t help but appreciate his efforts when looking at his creations. As such, when Jacob acquired these machines, he didn’t think it was right to just “flip” them and decided instead, that they should be re-born. Cutler felt that Dr.G would have been excited to see his bikes have a new life.
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March ‘18 - CYCLE SOURCE MAGAZINE
Jacob put both bikes away and waited for the right opportunity to present itself. For the “Messenger,” that opportunity came in the form of his old friend Joe Weiss. Joe and Jacob went to the same grammar school and junior high, but lost touch after he went to a different high school. Years passed, and life went on, until a few year ago when Jacob got a Facebook message from Joe about catching up… and to talk about having a bike built. It took a while for them to connect, but after exchanging several emails and waiting for his bands tour to end, they finally managed to meet up at a local hot rod show and put some ideas on the table. Joe wasn’t sure what he wanted but felt it should be a stripped down, fast and reliable, clean but rugged looking bike that fit his budget. Cutler thought the “Messenger”
would make the perfect donor for Joe’s project. The 1200cc Evolution motor and Sportster platform would allow them to meet all the goals. So, after meeting, discussing and pondering some more, the decision was made. Jacob took the “Messenger” for one last rip as it was, and then took it all apart in preparation for its new life. Barnstorm works closely with folks to make sure they have all the input they want. After all, it is THEIR bike. This process often involves hanging out, maybe having a few drinks and just brainstorming. It turns out Joe and Jacob share an affinity for Scotch. Therefore, it was often the go-to “thinking” drink. And thus, from the “Messenger,” the “Scotchster” was born. The pair worked out the basic layout, which wasn’t too difficult because they
