Drawing inspiration for a build can be found in many places. Finding inspiration for rebuilding something that took almost 9 months to complete the first go-round, only to have the engine seize and then crash into oblivion two weeks after its debut…well, finding inspiration is damn near impossible. Unfortunately, but fortunately, Jared Smith, of Smith Process, was put into this predicament, but his approach to correcting an unfortunate situation demonstrates an unparalleled level of resilience.  

What might break most men, only encouraged Jared. And where each creation tells a unique story, Jared’s is pretty hard to beat. His tale of passion, perseverance, and personal craftsmanship leaves an indelible mark within the custom motorcycle world.  

Built for Born-Free 14, an event that epitomizes the essence of motorcycle culture, this particular bike is more than just a machine; it’s a labor of love meticulously crafted by an enthusiast for the sheer joy of riding. 

Jared embarked on a mission to build a high-performance machine that not only pushed the boundaries but also reflected his personal style and vision. Eschewing the conventional route of customer builds, he set out to create a bike that resonated with his soul—a bike that would be his ultimate riding companion. 

With a clear vision in mind, the journey began. Every aspect of the build was meticulously planned, with a focus on crafting as many parts as possible by hand. The goal was clear: to create a skinny, high-performance machine that would be an absolute joy to ride. A bike that would turn heads and set hearts racing. 

Among the myriad challenges faced during the build, one stands out: the modification of the heads and the intricate process of cutting the XR-750 primary cover into five different pieces to fit it onto a big twin. It was a daunting task, but one that was met with determination and skill. The result? A testament to Jared’s ingenuity and craftsmanship. 

Another memorable moment in the journey was the exhilaration of firing up the engine for the first time. Despite the challenges posed by a magneto and two giant carbs, the thrill of hearing the engine roar to life was unparalleled—a moment of triumph after hours of hard work and dedication. 

However, the true essence of the journey was experienced upon arrival at Born-Free. Surrounded by fellow builders who poured their hearts and souls into their creations, there was a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that transcended words. It was a moment of validation. A realization that the blood, sweat, and tears poured into the build were not in vain. 

Inspired by the aesthetics of late ’80s MotoGP racers, Jared’s bike is a nod to the past while it embraces the future. It’s a fusion of style and performance—a personal interpretation of a genre that holds a special place in Jared’s heart. 

Two weeks after its Born-Free debut, the motor seized and Jared crashed the bike, which he had to completely rebuild (you’re seeing round two of the Born-Free debut in these photos). Despite the challenges faced and the setbacks Jared encountered, he remained undeterred. As a dedicated father and enthusiast, his focus and passion for bikes remains unwavering. While he may not have any immediate plans for another “performance chopper,” the journey—and quite possibly the asphalt itself—has left quite the impression on Jared. 

In the end, yes, the motor may have seized, and the bike may have crashed, but what remains is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. A reminder that setbacks are just another opportunity to rise again, stronger than before. In the world of custom motorcycle builds, the journey is as important as the destination, and the memories forged along the way are what truly endure. 

Jared would like to thank the following (Instagram handles): Adam Munz @speed_research, Michael Barragan @evil_spirit_engineering, Thom Jones @semigoods, Christian Newman @ctnewman, Max Schaff @4q69, Taylor Cole @roadkill.cowboy, Megan Fradley-Smith @the.backyard.naturalist.