Is This Your Idea of an American Made Motorcycle?

2013 HD Police Edition Road King

As many of you know I am an avid Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge rider that completed my first run in 2014 from Key West, Florida to Homer Spit, Alaska. I rode 10K miles in about 18-days all back roads, slept next to my bike, hit an elk in Washington state, and earned the confidence to ride halfway around the world the next year. The Hoka Hey Challenge only allows American made motorcycles in the challenge. Made in America does not allow a Honda built in North Carolina to identify as an American bike because it’s still Japanese own. Sorry metric bike owners for that rule…

Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge 2022 Starting Line South Dakota

Now I am about to tell you about the Arch motorcycle and then see if its viable to do Iron Butt style long distance motorcycle runs on it. In no way or form is this article to be interpreted as a slam because it is not. I like the bike and maybe with some mods it could be the ultimate long distance motorcycle for your crazy runs!

Famous Movie Star Builds New American Brand

Arch is an American motorcycle company that has potential to be in one of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenges. Keanu Reeves, an actor with a deep-seated passion for motorcycles, met bike designer Gard Hollinger in 2007, and their shared enthusiasm for bikes and design blossomed into a business partnership. In 2011, they launched Arch Motorcycle, with the intent to create custom, high-end motorcycles that would cater to the bespoke needs of discerning customers. They envisioned a brand that would stand as a testament to American craftsmanship and personalization.

How ARCH Motorcycles Are Made | Made Here | Popular Mechanics

ARCH Uses S&S Motorcycle Engines

Situated in Hawthorne, California, Arch Motorcycle is a beacon of luxury in the motorcycle manufacturing world. Each motorcycle from Arch is a product of extensive labor and meticulous attention to detail, justified by its premium price point. The commitment to excellence is evident in every curve and component, with the brand priding itself on providing an immersive and personalized riding experience.

Arch Motorcycle integrates the renowned S&S engines into their motorcycles, a choice that underscores the company’s dedication to power and reliability. S&S engines, with their storied history in performance and racing circuits, are synonymous with high-quality American engineering. By choosing these engines, Arch ensures that each of their bespoke creations is equipped with a heart that roars with strength and precision. This partnership between Arch’s design finesse and S&S’s mechanical prowess results in a riding experience that is both exhilarating and smooth, offering riders the thrill of unmatched horsepower coupled with the assurance of durability.

Cyberpunk 2077 — Behind the Scenes: Arch Motorcycle with Keanu Reeves and Gard Hollinger

Arch Motorcycle distinguishes itself by offering an unparalleled bespoke experience. They engage closely with each customer, ensuring that every aspect of the motorcycle, from its aesthetics to its ergonomics, is tailor-made. This philosophy extends to their flagship model, the Arch KRGT-1, which commands a price of $85,000, indicative of the labor and skill invested in each build.

The creation process at Arch Motorcycle is a blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the American spirit of ingenuity. The motorcycles are not just assembled; they’re crafted with a dedication that speaks to the brand’s pursuit of perfection. Each bike is a collaborative effort, designed to embody the individuality of its owner while showcasing the pinnacle of American engineering.

In essence, Arch Motorcycle, founded by Keanu Reeves and Gard Hollinger, has established itself as an icon of American-made motorcycles, known for its dedication to craftsmanship, customization, and the creation of exceptional riding machines. Each motorcycle that rolls out of their California headquarters is not just a means of transportation but a personal statement of luxury and performance.

Keanu Reeves rides his ARCH motorcycle after lunch at San Vicente Bungalows in West Hollywood, CA

HHMC Viability to Ride the ARCH? Gabe Opines!

The main question placed before me here can the Arch be a viable choice of use to ride the HHMC? As it stands now I believe with certain mods and upgrades it could be a strong contender, but as it stands from where I am standing it is NOT ready for the long distance endurance motorcycle rides of the Iron Butt or the Hoka Hey. I say this in truth and in love because I would love to see this bike brand prosper.

I would change a few things and add like foot pegs for those long hauls. That 5.0 gallons fuel tank must go and since they customise the bike per customer I would request a 6.2 gallon tank. I love the low weight of the bike but the engine is a 124 engine that would suck the gas down too much. Did I mention highway pegs and a windshield to keep these old bones from tiring out from wind fatigue.

2020 Hoka Hey Harley Motorcycle Review

On the HHMC riders must sleep next to their bikes – rain or clear sky so Arch would have to create some type of mechanism to hold my equipment, gear, and other shit I probably don’t need. To finish this up so you can get off the damn internet and go outside and touch the grass I will conclude. Arch is a great idea but for long distance endurance runs I believe they would have to have me work with their R&D department to create these creature comforts that keep me in the saddle longer!