The Episodes
More Than Motorcycles
Privateers is unique in that it appeals to a broader audience than any other motorcycle or motorsport show. We explore the subculture and camaraderie of motorsport, but more importantly, we are drawn into the stories of the people and places. We delve into the lives of the people behind the machines. Sometimes a project is a connection to the past, such as rebuilding a motorcycle that once belonged to a father. Sometimes a restoration is a family project, bringing a father and son together.
Part travel show, part builder show, part motorsport show… We see what it takes to live the life of a Privateer.
Episode 1
Only 40 Years To Become An Overnight Success
Aussie Craig Rodsmith was at the end of his rope… The electric in his apartment was shut off, and sharing cans of tuna with his cat. Craig’s friends convinced him to make the all night drive from Chicago to show his creation called "The Ambassador" (aka the "Dustbin") at the Handbuilt motorcycle show in Austin.
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A huge hit, this rolling piece of art was acquired on the spot by the Haas Museum, establishing Craig as one of the top custom motorcycle builders in the world.
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Episode 2
Big Sid's Vincati
What do you get when you mix the thumping power of a vintage Vincent engine with the handling and style of a Ducati?
This is the journey of the legendary "Big Sid" and his son building one of the most unique and rare motorcycles in the world.
Episode 3
Cashing Out The 401K To Build Dreams
Scott Halbleib walked away from the corporate world to build custom motorcycles and create epic motorcycle lifestyle events in Louisville Kentucky.
Episode 4
Build AÂ Better Bike
In 1950, John Penton was one of the top motorcycle enduro competitors in the nation. Seeking to create an even lighter off-road machine, he put up $6,000 of his own money to KTM in Austria, (which at the time produced bicycles and mopeds)
to build prototypes to his specifications which would be sold in the United States as Penton motorcycles.
Episode 5
The Racers
Race on Sunday, back to work on Monday.
Whether it's on dirt, asphalt or ice, these racers are there for the love of the sport. They are the pit crew, the builder the transportation, the sponsor and the racer.
Episode 6
Wrench. Â Relax. Â Repeat,
No experience required.  No attitude. Throughout the country, places like the Skidmark Garage house a community that thrives on helping each other out, getting dirty, jamming tunes, and riding.
Episode 7
Living Museums, Living Patina
We go behind the scenes with exclusive back-stage access to unrestored machines before they are displayed at the Crawford Auto Aviation museum in Cleveland, the Barber Museum, and more.
