Builder Spotlight: Brian Buttera
Brian Butterra builds motorcycles the same way he learned fabrication—by doing the work and doing it right. A lifelong Harley guy, Brian currently owns a 1973 Shovel and a 1955 Pan, with no daily rider in rotation. His favorite piece he’s ever built is his stainless girder frontend, and right now he’s focused on a billet dual-magneto Shovelhead project in the shop.
Brian’s path into fabrication wasn’t traditional. After derailing his original education and career plans, he taught himself how to weld well enough to land an entry-level job—and kept pushing from there. His influences are broad but simple: anything that shows real quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
His earliest motorcycle memory goes back to ripping a makeshift backyard circle track on a Suzuki 50cc, and that hands-on, ride-it-hard mindset still defines how he approaches bikes today. When it comes to motorcycle experiences, Swiss Moto in Zurich stands out as his favorite event, and Sturgis 2024—a cross-country trip with just him and his dog—remains his most memorable ride.
If given unlimited budget, Brian would build a new, fully decked-out Harley designed for comfort, long trips, and modern performance. Given six months with no obligations, he’d trade the shop for a legendary around-the-world surf trip. Japan tops his travel wish list, though Switzerland is high on the return list.
Brian’s picks are straightforward and personal:
- Favorite book: 1984
- Podcasts: Joe Rogan, Vanilla Gorilla Strength
- Bands: Alice In Chains, Waylon Jennings, Down
- Restaurant: Fat Jack’s (Lakeland, FL) — a local spot that supports his shop
- Sandwich order: ham and cheese, mustard and mayo, potato chips on top
