Need Vintage Looking Bike for a Prop

[tzrider]

A parent at our local high school last night told me they are looking for a motorcycle to use as a prop in a musical based on Elvis Presley. They hope to find something that looks like it was late 1950's vintage, but they aren't super particular. The bike need not be running, as it will be pushed about ten feet onto the stage.

Does anyone have or know of a bike that this school could use for rehearsal and the shows between about January and March, 2020? Obvious brands could be HD or Triumph, though Elvis was known to ride a Honda Dream too. I think even a recent Royal Enfield would convey the right look, as would anything else that looks similar.

Thanks for any assistance!

 

[cheez]

2008 Harley Road King Police might fit the bill. She's a heavy lady to push around, however.

 

[tzrider]

It would look great for sure. I can get more info about how they would push it; it doesn't have to go far.

Is that yours?

 

[cheez]

It would look great for sure. I can get more info about how they would push it; it doesn't have to go far.

Is that yours?

Yup- I've got it listed for sale right now but haven't had many bites. If they decide to use it I can plan to hang on to it through the spring and let them use it. The only request I'd make is that they'd keep it on a battery tender that I'd provide when they weren't using it, as Harleys love to eat batteries.

 

[tzrider]

Awesome! I'll PM you...

 

[cheez]

If anyone else has a lighter bike to offer up, please do so- I have no worries about lending them my RK, but kids pushing its 800lb mass around may present logistical issues.

 

[Jalopyshoppe]

I don't have any pictures, but you an DM me for a phone number. I have a 79 Harley Shovelhead that is up for pushing. It will probably leak oil and smell bad, though. It's also pretty ratty.

 

[tzrider]

Cheez' offer could have been the end of this thread but it turns out the director for the production is pretty worried about kids handling the weight of something that size.

The story line has the bike being broken down. I asked the director if a rolling chassis without an engine would be acceptable. He said it would. Anyone have a lead on something like that? Can be in poor condition, but should be able to roll.

Thanks for any help!

 

[295566]

Might want to check Craigslist for some rolling chassis that can be power washed to get rid of cobwebs?

 

[Whammy]

my question is how are they gonna get it on stage?
Super nice of you Cheez :thumbup

 

[tzrider]

There is a loading dock outside the theater. It's pretty common to have to move large objects in and out. It sounds more like the concern is having kids who don't ride trying to balance an 800 pound two wheeled machine. I think they can do it safely, but if they aren't confident, I'll defer to them.

 

[cheez]

There is a loading dock outside the theater. It's pretty common to have to move large objects in and out. It sounds more like the concern is having kids who don't ride trying to balance an 800 pound two wheeled machine. I think they can do it safely, but if they aren't confident, I'll defer to them.

Another option might be having them invest in a motorcycle dolly for the show. I can park the bike on the dolly and they can roll it around as desired. Heck, if it's the right idea, I might be willing to invest in one and lend it to them.

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Widow-...S05QA80XZ4K&psc=1&refRID=1M3AK6S21S05QA80XZ4K

 

[auntiebling]

You're welcome to my 1979 kz1000 from 2018 dirtbag.

You should also get in touch with the bearded hermit in Livermore that used to frequent these parts. He has tons of bikes from the vintage in question. Probably not willing to risk a bunch of kids drooling on it tho

 

[tzrider]

More good ideas.

Auntie, I did contact that guy; we'll see what he has to say.

 

[danate]

You might check with a CMSP school. Something like a 125 Eliminator or any of the little cruisers would probably be easier to manage. They may have one lying around that isn't in working order.

 

[tzrider]

Good suggestion!

 

[auntiebling]

More good ideas.

Auntie, I did contact that guy; we'll see what he has to say.

If he says he can't think of anything he has forgotten about the little black 2 stroke in thevwaaaaaaaay back of storage. You can volunteer me for extracation help

 

[berth]

This is a great thread seeing the community come together for this.

 

[Spec-ECU]

I don't know if it'll convey the look they're going for, but I have a '66 Suzuki Hillbilly.

 

[tzrider]

I don't know if it'll convey the look they're going for, but I have a '66 Suzuki Hillbilly.

Interesting! It would sure be manageable weight wise. I’m getting the idea they aren’t trying for a particular style as much as conveying old, prior to Elvis’ success.

I’ve found that model online. Do you have a photo of yours or would a stock photo be a reasonable representation?