Archway Project's Chopper Challenge

Members of the Archway Project in Thamesmead have taken up the biggest challenge of their lives; they are building a custom motorcycle. The Archway Chopper Challenge will see a group of youngsters spend each Monday evening designing, planning and building a custom bike from scratch.

To build a bike from scratch requires a high level of fabrication and knowledge; this is why the Archway Project has enlisted the help of custom bike builders Nick Gale Custom Cycles. Nick Gale heads up the award winning company and helps out with all aspects of the build.

Nick said: “I am so proud of the way the boys have taken to this task. Building a custom bike isn't easy, but building one to my standard is extremely hard.

“With a bit more work I have no doubt that the dedication of the boys will enable them to assemble this bike on stage at Ally Pally in the designated time of 10 hours. This will be something they can look back on for the rest of their lives with pride. I know I will.”

Neil Monaghan, Operations Manager of the Archway Project said: “We really wanted to show how skilled these young people are. They turn up each week to fix our dirt bikes, which is no mean feat. We wanted to demonstrate how good they are and I couldn't think of anything more challenging than building a bike from scratch.

“They are learning a completely new skill in setting the design, fabrication and assembly, which all need to be completed to an exceptionally high standard. Ultimately the bike will be ridden on the road so the bike will need to pass stringent safety checks.

“The young people have responded to the challenge and are really enjoying working along side Nick Gale.”

The finished bike will be unveiled at the Ace Café Custom Bike Show held at Alexander Palace, March 2011 and sold at auction. All proceeds will by donated to the Variety Club.

The Archway Project is part of Trust Thamesmead's/Myplace multi million project, The Link Thamesmead, opening in 2011.