Builder Spotlight: Ben & Jess
We thought it would be fun to ask our builders to answer some questions so we can get to know them a bit better. Below you will find their un-edited responses & some photos that represent them and their work/life. Show these folks some love!! Say hello when you see them in the crowd at the Show!
For Ben Schattschneider, motorcycles are more than machines—they're a way of life and a platform for creativity. His daily rider, a 2001 Ducati Monster S4, perfectly captures that philosophy. It’s not just a mode of transport; it’s a canvas. While the bike is already a staple in his lineup, Ben is currently dialing it in with fresh modifications for the upcoming Mama Tried Show. It’s the kind of project that reflects his hands-on approach and evolving vision—never static, always in motion.
Ben’s garage tells a story all its own: a diverse lineup featuring an ‘05 HD Road King, a pair of 1980 BMWs (R65 and R100), a ‘75 Yamaha XS650, and a 2001 Ducati Monster S4. But don’t let the brand variety fool you—Ben operates his collection like a Swiss Army knife, choosing bikes that spark creativity rather than sticking to a single label. It’s no surprise then that his favorite parts are constantly evolving, often the ones he’s most recently crafted by hand.
His business grew organically during the pandemic, sparked by the simple act of fixing his own stuff. That side project quickly turned into something bigger, thanks to a viral moment and a whole lot of grit.
When he’s not in the shop, Ben finds inspiration in cars, trucks, tractors, fashion, and the city of Chicago—particularly in the summertime. He and his wife, Jess, are big fans of MoroBlot, drawn to the event’s mix of live music and the wildly inclusive motorcycle community.
One of Ben’s most memorable experiences? A 32-hour road trip to California with his buddy Jeff to deliver one of their first custom builds to a Green Beret. The destination was meaningful, but the time spent in the car confirmed they could handle the chaos together—and still enjoy it.
Looking ahead, Ben’s excited to take his wife on an adventure through Europe and build more bikes that blend Italian beauty with British grit. And if he had an unlimited budget? You can bet there’d be plenty more of both in the shop.
Until then, Ben will be wrenching away at Never Ending Cycles, proving that the ride—and the creativity—never really ends.
Follow along:
📷 Instagram: @never_ending_cycles123
🌐 Website: www.neverendingcycles.com