Style Rider aims to document the world’s most stylish motorcycle riders, be they riders of classic, custom or cafe racer steeds. Focused on the intersection of motorcycle culture with individual style, here we speak to Single O barista and motorcycle builder, Oliver Hinder.
Describe your style: My typical outfit is a button-up shirt, trousers and Dr Martens loafers. I feel that it is better to be overdressed than underdressed. As I am always doing messy things,—making coffee and working on bikes—, I stick to shades of black and grey in functional fabrics with textures. I love corduroy shirts due to their smart look and texture. When you wear a lot of black, this fabric has greater visual interest than a plain black cotton shirt.
Favourite items: Dr Martens Adrian loafers. I have four pairs. I love their oilproof soles and the juxtaposition of riding a big Harley wearing tasselled loafers.
Next purchase: Carhart mechanics jumpsuit. Black, of course. I’m starting my Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship at Fracks in September.
Today’s ride: 1973 Harley Davidson FLHT 1340 with big bore kit, SNS oil pump and Burleigh Bars. This is a big bike, weighing in at over 350kg dry and can be a challenge on the tight city streets. I love old Harley’s though and brought this one in the United States. It is a bit of a frankenstein bike, having been modified by various owners over the years.
Best local ride: I love riding high over the Gladesville Bridge, turning at Lane Cove and riding back again. It feels great to be up high above the water, with the noise of the big Harley.
Best distance ride: Sydney south via the Royal National Park, along the Sea Cliff Bridge past Woollongong to Robertson, Kangaroo Valley, Batemans Bay, up to The Clyde to Canberra and back to Sydney.
Tip for stylish riding: Do not leave without a tool kit if you ride an old Harley. Having a shovelhead is like having a bad girlfriend. You can give it all the love it needs, and it will still break your heart occasionally.
Next trip: Back to the USA to Sturgiss, to the biggest Harley Show in the world.
