MEXICO

Aftercycles

If you were to sum up Aftercycles’ custom building philosophy in just three words, it would be ‘Less is more’. From their workshop in Queretaro, Mexico, their team of seasoned craftsmen and young, forward-thinking collaborators create elegant bespoke motorcycles that exude balance, harmony and sophistication.

When asked what their favourite workshop tool was, their simple and honest answer reveals everything you need to know about their commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and artistic expression: “Our hands.” Every single element they add to a build is carefully considered. The goal is always to push creative boundaries, but without adding unnecessary complexity or compromising the performance or integrity of the bike.

Over the past 18 years, Aftercycles has learned that so many riders out there are looking for more than just a motorcycle. They’re looking for something completely original that reflects their personality. Creating motorcycles with the power to spark conversations and tell unique stories is something Aftercycles passionately believes in.

How did you get into Customs?

We realised custom bikes not only allowed for artistic expression but also expanded the world of motorcycling itself – inspiring a broader range of riders and new enthusiasts. Many riders craved a motorcycle that was a true reflection of their personality, which pushed us to refine our designs – crafting bikes that told unique stories. We were soon showing our work at world-renowned contests. This challenged us to push boundaries, elevate our craftsmanship, and redefine what it means to build a truly exceptional custom motorcycle.

How long have you been customising Triumph motorcycles?

In the past four years, our focus has increasingly turned towards Triumph – a brand that perfectly aligns with our passion for craftsmanship and individuality. It’s allowed us to create truly bespoke Triumph motorcycles, blending heritage with innovation to deliver machines that stand out both in style and performance.

What draws you to customising Triumph motorcycles, particularly the Bonneville range?

The legacy and exceptional quality of Triumph motorcycles drew us to this remarkable brand. Its rich history and commitment to craftsmanship provides the perfect foundation for our custom builds. The Bonnevilles in particular, gives us unparalleled creative freedom – allowing us to reimagine and refine each motorcycle, while honouring its iconic roots. It’s a canvas where tradition meets innovation, enabling us to craft truly distinctive machines that embody both character and individuality.

What do you think makes the Bonneville platforms a great platform for custom builds?

The architecture and design of the Bonnevilles provide an exceptional level of flexibility. It’s the perfect canvas for creativity, enabling us to craft motorcycles that seamlessly blend classic aesthetics with modern innovation. Whether it’s a vintage-inspired look, a bold contemporary design, or a performance-driven build, the Bonnevilles’ versatility ensures each project is an expression of both craftsmanship and individuality.

How would you describe your approach to custom bike building?

Each build must be unique and purpose-built, conveying a distinct message through quality, innovation, and creativity. We embrace the philosophy that less is more, focusing on elegant, meticulously tailored builds that exude harmony and sophistication. Every element is thoughtfully integrated, enhancing the design without adding unnecessary complexity.

What makes your builds unique compared to others in the custom scene?

Rideability and comfort are at the heart of every build. These two factors continuously challenge us; it’s all too easy to create radical designs that compromise safety and performance. Instead, we push creative boundaries without sacrificing the essence of a well-engineered machine. We never lose sight of the integrity that makes a motorcycle both exhilarating and reliable. Combining fresh ideas with experience and expertise, we create motorcycles that are visually striking but also meticulously crafted for realworld performance.

What aspect of British culture has influenced your response to the brief?

The richness and breadth of Triumph’s heritage provided the perfect foundation for our concept. Rather than being confined to one or two aspects, this legacy allows us to create builds that truly narrate British culture in its entirety. Each motorcycle becomes a story – one that blends tradition, innovation, and the spirit of British craftsmanship.

What's your favourite part of the build process, and why?

The final assembly. This is the moment when your design becomes reality, offering the opportunity to add or refine details that complete its character.

Do you have any rituals or quirks when starting a new build? (Lucky spanner? Playlist? Midnight tinkering?)

The whole team starts to feel that same excitement – the kind that keeps you up at night. By 4 am, the messages and emails are flying back and forth, with everyone sharing ideas and suggestions.

Is there a golden rule you always follow when building a custom, and is there one rule you love to break'?

The golden rule is that our motorcycles must be comfortable and easy to ride. The rule I love breaking is declaring a design finished and final.