It’s hard to believe over three decades have passed since the release of 1988’s Akira manga movie. The Katsuhiro Otomo story is harrowing, visually overwhelming, and truly epic. Perhaps, even more than the tragic characters themselves, its Kaneda’s motorcycle that stands out the most. Among designers trying to replicate the bike in modern form, it seems Shanghai-based automotive artist, James Qiu has outdone just about everyone else. Qiu’s version gets the same low-slung silhouette and worn red coloring as the original, as well as LED lighting, huge Pirelli P-Zero tires in front and back, and a thoroughly modern head-up display. We also love the copious use of carbon fiber trim and the muscled quad short pipes protruding from the back. It’s just the kind of fantasy motorcycle icon that justifies a real build from a shop ready to take on the task.
PARTNER
Huckberry’s Essential Holiday Gift Guide
Unzip your coat and have some mulled wine on the house—you’ve arrived at your final gifting destination: The Holiday Gift Guide. It’s like your friendly neighborhood one-stop holiday shop, except instead of balsa wood ornaments, ours is packed with thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list. Future heirlooms, small-but-significant stocking stuffers, and gear for getting out there (or staying in)—are all right here. There’s no music playing in the background though, so you’ll just have to hum Bing Crosby while you click around instead.
