Our good friend Franco Bonfiglio was well and truly into Muscle Bikes before we were. Somewhere along the line, he came in contact with us through mutual friends and since then, he has been a loyal mate and an integral part of the Leist Cycles team.

Frank gave us the opportunity to piece together a build that he started over two years ago. Affectionately known as Black Betty, we took it upon ourselves to look after her.

He purchased a complete bike that was damaged, to use as a parts donor, to complete a frame that he had painted previously by an old friend back in the day.

Black was the ideal choice for Frank on this bike. A non-factory colour, it was a way of adding some personal flair to the ride, without being too over the top. To the average punter, you would be tricked into thinking that indeed, black was a Malvern Star hue offered back in the ’70s.

Frank slowly acquired all the NOS parts and absolutely went to town on detailing all the original parts to the max. Frank estimates that upwards of 120 hours went into getting all the shiny parts looking better than ever. It’s patience and passion like that, which sets his bikes apart from many others in the country.

He applied the decals himself then together, he and Clayton put the rest of the bike together over more than a few of Franco’s ‘Moonshine’ specials.

NOS parts are much like all of the Leist Cycles full restorations – the seat, sissy bar, stand, reflectors and shifter. They are all gems.

Clayton fitted new brake line inners and outers and made sure the gears and the rest of the bike was good to go.

Since the photos, Frank has updated the seat to something more in-keeping with his style and taste. It is hard to think of it looking even better than this!

We reckon Black Betty is a beauty! What a cool ride. Thanks for trusting us with the build Frank.