Mechanical Mini-Series 8: Custom Motorcycle & Car Restoration

Duration: 4 sessions

🛠️ Restoration 101 – Build the Vision, Master the Basics 🚗🏍️🔥

Ever dreamed of turning an old ride into a custom masterpiece? This introductory series is your launchpad. Teens will explore the foundations of vintage motorcycle and car restoration — from performance upgrades to design planning — using our legendary 2003 Harley-Davidson Night Train as a case study.

They’ll learn how to assess a build, explore basic performance mods, and get hands-on with creative customization tools. Plus, we’ll take a special field trip to the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, where students can see some of the most iconic builds in racing history and get inspired for their own.

🏍️ Featured Build: 2003 Harley-Davidson Night Train (1450cc)

An iconic cruiser with serious street cred. Teens will help inspect, prep, and plan custom upgrades to this legendary bike — including performance mods, cosmetic enhancements, and restoration planning for future builds.

💡 Why This Helps:

Custom restoration isn’t just about cool paint jobs and loud pipes — it’s about vision, creativity, and real-world mechanical skill. In this foundational series, teens will learn how to assess a project, build a plan, and start hands-on customization in a safe, supportive environment.

They’ll gain confidence using tools, thinking through problems, and making design decisions — while working on real bikes like the Harley Night Train.

These skills help young people feel capable, creative, and connected, whether they’re pursuing a future in mechanics or just want to bring their dream ride to life.

This series lays the groundwork for more advanced fabrication and restoration tracks — and gives students a mechanical and motivational boost they won’t forget.

🔩 Breakdown of Sessions:

• Session 1 – Intro to Restoration & Build Planning

🔍 Inspect. Envision. Prep.

Learn the restoration process: how to assess a vehicle’s condition, plan upgrades, budget for builds, and select tools and parts. We’ll begin planning the Night Train’s transformation and explore the art of customization.

• Session 2 – Custom Mods & Motorcycle Basics

🏍️ Hands-On Customization Begins

Explore the basic mechanics of a motorcycle and try your hand at safe cosmetic mods. Teens will work with grips, seats, bars, and lights — learning how parts, design, and personality come together in every bike.

• Session 3 – Performance Basics & Inspiration Trip

🛞 Go Big, Then Go See It.

Dive into simple engine mods like air filters and exhaust upgrades.

• Session 4 – Showcase & Restoration Strategy Lab

⚙️ Where Do We Go From Here?

Teens will help install a basic upgrade on the Night Train, then design a full build plan for a future custom project. They’ll finish with a group strategy session and vision board for more advanced restoration and fabrication tracks.

🎯 Perfect For:

• Teens who want to personalize their ride but don’t know where to start
• Beginners who want hands-on motorcycle experience
• Youth interested in design, fabrication, or restoration
• Future mechanics or creators seeking real inspiration
• Anyone who wants to learn by doing and get pumped about custom builds

💵 What It Costs

Program Price: $495

Typical Cost at Other Programs: $700+

This includes all sessions, tools, instruction, and hands-on time with real bikes and vehicles. We do our best to keep things affordable for families — and if cost is ever a barrier, support may be available through our nonprofit partner (just ask!).

🛠 This workshop would typically cost over $700 in a private garage or trade school — but we believe in building opportunity, not barriers.

🔒 Prerequisites

To Enroll in Mini-Series 8: Custom Motorcycle & Car Restoration

Participants must:

✅ Complete Mini-Series 1: Safety & Tool Identification

✅ Complete either Mini-Series 4 (Motorcycle Mechanics) or Mini-Series 5 (Car Engine Basics)

✅ Be able to identify major vehicle components (engine, frame, electrical, etc.)

✅ Demonstrate safe tool usage and workshop etiquette

⚠️ Teens who have not completed Mini-Series 4 or 5 may still qualify by:

• Showing prior experience with basic vehicle maintenance

• Completing a quick hands-on challenge with our instructors

• Providing a reference from a teacher, shop mentor, or mechanic familiar with their skill level