Porsche-Themed Custom Harley Sportster: Lord Drake Kustoms' Elegant Transformation

Introduction

Lord Drake Kustoms (LDK), led by Francisco Manen, has once again raised the bar for custom motorcycles with a Porsche-inspired rebuild of a Harley-Davidson Sportster 883R. Operating out of both Spain and the United States, LDK is known for meticulous craftsmanship and design-forward builds. This Sportster conversion blends timeless Porsche visual cues with performance-focused upgrades—creating a bespoke motorcycle that appeals to both car and motorcycle enthusiasts.

Design & Styling

This Sportster sheds its stock bodywork in favor of custom coachwork that channels Porsche DNA. Up front, a compact fairing frames a modern LED headlight, while the handmade fuel tank carries Porsche-style badges and a refined filler cap. The modified rear subframe supports a distinctive tail section with integrated dual LED taillights and reworked side covers. A black leather seat with diamond stitching completes the premium look. Subtle mesh inserts and Porsche-branded elements—like a custom fork brace—reinforce the theme without feeling kitschy. The livery uses Porsche’s signature colors layered over a sophisticated grey base for a high-end finish that stands out on the street or at shows.

Performance & Mechanical Upgrades

Under the skin, the Sportster retains its V-twin architecture but receives targeted breathing and exhaust upgrades to enhance torque and throttle response. The intake is handled by an S&S setup with twin forward-facing pod filters for improved airflow. Exhaust duties are taken over by a blacked-out Vance & Hines two-into-one system routed on the right side, delivering a cleaner look and a deeper, tuned note.

Chassis, Suspension & Wheels

LDK replaced the factory rear shocks with adjustable aftermarket units featuring piggyback reservoirs and progressive springs to sharpen handling and ride comfort. The front forks were upgraded internally and dressed in bespoke protective covers that add visual weight to the front end. Complementing the revised suspension are multi-spoke aftermarket wheels shod in high-grip Dunlop rubber—an aggressive, modern touch that improves unsprung performance and cornering traction.

Braking & Electronics

Braking performance is improved with a drilled single rotor up front paired with a high-grade Brembo caliper, while the rear retains a similarly sized disc with the factory caliper. The cockpit hosts clip-on handlebars and a digital aftermarket instrument cluster, aligning modern ergonomics with the bike’s sporty aesthetic.

Specifications (Highlights)

• Base model: Harley-Davidson Sportster 883R (customized)
• Engine: V-twin—internal layout largely retained; upgraded intake (S&S) and Vance & Hines 2-into-1 exhaust
• Suspension: Adjustable rear shocks with piggyback reservoirs; internally upgraded front forks
• Wheels/Tires: Aftermarket multi-spoke rims with Dunlop tires
• Brakes: Drilled front rotor with Brembo caliper; rear factory caliper
• Bodywork: Handmade tank, custom fairing, bespoke tail section, dual LED taillights

Market Positioning & Comparisons

This build occupies a niche between high-end café racers and boutique custom cruisers. Compared with stock Sportsters, the LDK conversion offers substantial visual and handling upgrades while preserving the approachable V-twin platform. Versus other custom houses’ projects, this Porsche-themed Sportster stands out for its automotive-inspired livery and attention to brand-honoring details—making it appealing to collectors who appreciate cross-discipline design (automotive meets motorcycle). Functionally, it competes with other premium custom Sportster builds by offering upgraded suspension, braking, and breathing components designed to improve real-world rideability.

Conclusion

Lord Drake Kustoms’ Porsche-themed Sportster is a refined example of how automotive influence can elevate motorcycle design. The build balances form and function—handmade bodywork and Porsche cues lend elegance while S&S intake, Vance & Hines exhaust, upgraded suspension, Brembo braking, and quality tires deliver credible performance. For riders and enthusiasts seeking a unique, show-quality Sportster that still performs on the road, this LDK project is a compelling benchmark.