Former GQ Senior West Coast Editor and now long-time partner of Hollywood’s top management firm, Management 360, Chris Huvane has been riding and collecting bikes since 2005. We forced him to take time out from his busy schedule managing the high profile careers of Margot Robbie, Margaret Qualley, Frank Grillo, and the late great Chadwick Boseman, to give us his breakdown of what to ride, where to ride, and where to get a beer & a fine meal in rider heaven.
MY FIRST BIKE
My first and favorite motorcycle. A 2008 Triumph Bonneville. I worship Steve McQueen and he rode a Triumph Scrambler in The Great Escape so of course Triumph was my first stop. I wanted a more street-friendly bike so I went with the Bonneville.
Triumph Bonneville T120
Huvane’s Personal Triumph Bonneville
THE ULTIMATE BIKE
The ultimate goal for any bike hobbyist is having a custom bike built for you. It can be expensive and time-consuming because you need to find a builder who you trust and admire. I found that individual in Robert Sabel of the Roughchild motorcycle shop. He specializes in BMW builds and is based in downtown Los Angeles, but is originally from England. He takes you along for the ride of the build by asking you for things that inspire you and your needs. In my case, I told him I wanted something that would appear in a Mad Max film! Knobby- tires and a violent attitude but also something that would impress artful people. He built the most incredible bike for me that literally gets me stopped in the streets by admirers of all ages and types.
Roughchild / 310.254.6027 / robert@roughchild.net
I GOT A GUY
I only allow one mechanic/builder to work on my Triumph, Kevin Stanley from Moto Chop Shop in Los Angeles.
Moto Chop Shop / 424.208.9204 / kevin@motochopshop.net
PARTS
Kevin introduced me to a parts company that completely changed my understanding of style and aesthetics on motorcycles: British Customs.
British Customs / 850.400.2708
GEAR
Dryspec D20 Waterproof Drybag Saddle Bag System
I just purchased this beautiful waterproof travel bag from them.
Biltwell Bonanza Helmet
The best way to accessorize while riding is finding a great, safe helmet. I only ride with Biltwell. For local rides where you want your face out in the open, I suggest the Bonanza.
Biltwell Lane Splitter Helmet
For a safer, more stylish look, check out the Lane Splitter. Fun fact: California is the only state that allows lane splitting. It’s a bit dangerous but for someone like me that hates traffic, it comes in handy for long rides.
Resurgence Sherpa Jacket Raw
My favorite riding coat was purchased in London last year.
ON THE ROAD
My favorite ride is Tuna Canyon in Malibu. It’s a one-way downhill jaunt that is exhilarating and dangerous enough to keep you completely on your toes. 70 turns in 4.1 miles. Beginners, take it slow your first few runs.
Distance: 17.4 Km / 10.8 Mi Duration: 0:27:45
HANG
The best destination for Los Angeles riders is The Old Place in Malibu. It feels like you’re on the set of a Western flick. The architecture and landscaping are pleasing to the eye and you might forget you’re in Los Angeles for a moment. The menu comes across as simple but that is the point. People that come here know what they want. The bacon is highly recommended. Most importantly for our purposes, they love feeding motorcyclists.
For those that don’t know, The Bike Shed is coming to Los Angeles. I discovered this treasure at the original location in London. You can find custom bikes, beautifully curated gear, and clothing, but you can also enjoy a beer and a fine meal. Oh, and they have barbers as well. Heaven for riders.
The Bike Shed / 384 Old St Hackney, London / 020.7729.8114
READING MATERIAL
The Impossible Collection of Motorcycles
There is only one coffee-table book for the casual or religious rider. Assouline’s The Impossible Collection of Motorcycles. I have never felt more overwhelmed (in a positive way) than when I first opened this giant publication. And I say giant because it’s literally the biggest book you will own. The size is mandatory because of the fine details of the design of the actual bikes that are featured. Sublime to say the least. Enjoy.
THE REST OF HUVANE’S COLLECTION
2015 Ducati Scrambler
2015 Indian Scout
2017 Harley Street Glide
