Despite being just 10 years old, ARCH Motorcycle has earned itself an enviable reputation as one of the top high-end custom motorcycle manufacturers in the US. The brainchild of custom bike builder Gard Hollinger and actor Keanu Reeves, it has slowly grown in reputation though it has had limited production.
Hollinger first met Reeves when customizing a Harley-Davidson motorcycle for him. It took several years to complete the project but resulted in a bike that impressed Reeves enough to encourage their partnership in their own business that became ARCH Motorcycle.
The Motorcycles
They established the business in 2011, and it was not till 2014 that they launched their first production bike, the ARCH KRGT-1. A performance cruiser, it is powered by the company’s own S&S 124ci V-Twin engine that delivers high torque on demand through a Downdraft Induction System and customized fuel management system. It makes the KRGT-1 as capable of aggressive performance as it is to accommodate easy highway cruises.
This model also features the use of custom-made Ohlins/ARCH suspension setup in the front and rear, with BST carbon fibre wheels designed to limit unsprung mass and deliver excellent rider handling capability. It also comes with bespoke ARCH/Bosch ABS and ISR radial callipers with floating dampened discs for superior response and safety.
At the Suzuka Circuit wearing a Shoei helmet
Besides the KRGT-1, ARCH Motorcycle has also put into production other models including the 1s and Method 143. While also a performance cruiser, the 1s does feature mid-controls that make for a more aggressive riding position and handling. The Method 143 model sports a more futuristic design that the company is touting as the ultimate production concept motorcycle.
All ARCH motorcycles are customized to fit the rider. According to the company, this personalization helps ensure a more intuitive riding experience and better connection between rider and bike. From seat shape to hand and foot control positions, many parameters are considered in the hand-assembly of each ARCH motorcycle.
The Keanu Element
The KRGT-1 is clearly dear to Reeves's heart as he has been seen as recently as 2021 cruising the streets of Malibu on this model. There was a light-hearted moment captured in February when fans approached the star to compliment him on his bike, to which he responded kindly and took time to chat with them.
Though Reeves is a great advertisement for the company, he has been an enthusiast since he was 10 years old and began riding motorcycles when he was 22 years old. He has a wide taste when it comes to motorcycles, with 15 bikes in his personal collection.
These include all 3 ARCH models and the 2004 Ducati 998 seen in the Matrix Reloaded film. He has also been seen donning Shoei helmets during this rides around Malibu. The brand is popular for its aerodynamically shaped and lightweight designs with excellent ventilation that makes them ideal for long cruises.
Suzuda Circuit donning Alpinestars
Besides being part owner of ARCH Motorcycles, Reeves also does a lot of testing of the bikes. According to Hollinger, he is the ultimate test rider, with the capability to break anything. However, it is not just the bikes that break. The actor has suffered several unfortunate accidents on his motorcycles that have led to injuries including broken teeth, broken ribs, an exposed shin bone, and a broken ankle. Let’s hope that this passion for motorcycles keeps the star and motorcycle aficionado safe for many years to come.
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