What Thunderbike does

Thunderbike is a German Harley-Davidson contract dealer and custom motorcycle builder headquartered in Hamminkeln, North Rhine-Westphalia. Founded in 2006 by Andreas Bergerforth as a sole proprietorship (e.K.), the company operates an integrated business combining official new and used Harley-Davidson sales, bespoke custom bike manufacturing, proprietary aftermarket parts production, full-service workshop operations, financing, rental, and a branded apparel and accessories retail operation. Its customisation work spans distinct stylistic lineages — notably Chicano lowrider builds on Heritage Softail platforms, Fat Boy and Breakout custom series, vintage Evolution Big Twin restorations, and Shovelhead-era builds — with dozens of named documented projects serving as both portfolio and marketing collateral.

The company's core technology rests on in-house vertical integration: a production facility housing construction and design, CNC machining of aluminium, metal fabrication (Metallbau), and surface finishing (Oberflächenveredelung). Proprietary Thunderbike Parts — including the Big Speed Rad (5 double-spoke, 18–23 inches), Gothik Rad (4 double-spoke, 18–21 inches), Vegas-design pulleys, single-side swingarm kits, air ride suspension systems, El Dorado fork crowns, and bespoke rear fenders — are TÜV-certified for German and EU road registration, an important regulatory differentiator. The KLIKTRONIC electronic gear shifting system is integrated via a proprietary aluminium mounting bracket designed in-house.

Thunderbike monetises through eight primary revenue streams: new Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales (manufacturer retail pricing), used motorcycle sales, custom bike manufacturing and bespoke commissions, proprietary parts wholesale and e-commerce (shop.thunderbike.de), Harley-Davidson original accessories resale, branded and general apparel/accessories retail, service and repair work, and motorcycle rental and financing. Distribution operates through the Hamminkeln showroom and service facility, a proprietary e-commerce platform, an independent dealer network ('Thunderbike Dealer vor Ort') across Germany and beyond, the on-site Thunderbike Roadhouse hospitality venue, and an active events portfolio (Rumble & Thunder, Jokerfest, Late Summer, Kick-Off, Grand Nicholas) supported by participation in major European rallies including European Bike Week Faak and Custombike Show Bad Salzuflen. Primary customer segments are Harley-Davidson enthusiasts and collectors (SMB/individuals), a B2B dealer channel, and general motorcycle retail customers — with international bespoke commissions extending reach beyond the DACH core market.

Name

Thunderbike

Legal name

Thunderbike, Inhaber: Andreas Bergerforth e.K.

Website

https://thunderbike.de

Company type

Private

Founded year

2006

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Thunderbike is a German Harley-Davidson contract dealer and bespoke custom bike builder in Hamminkeln that designs, manufactures, and distributes proprietary CNC-machined TÜV-certified parts, serving Harley-Davidson enthusiasts and an independent dealer network across Europe and internationally.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Custom Motorcycle Manufacturing

NAICS

Motorcycle, Bicycle, and Parts Manufacturing (336991), Motorcycle, ATV, and All Other Motor Vehicle Dealers (441227)

SIC

Motorcycles, Bicycles & Parts (3751), Motor Vehicle Parts & Accessories (3714)

akta.pro primary industry

Dirt Bike / Motocross / Enduro Motorcycle Manufacturing (IMACAEAH)

akta.pro secondary industry

Cruiser & Touring Motorcycle Rentals (THADAHAB)

Keywords

• Custom motorcycle manufacturing
• Harley-Davidson dealership
• Aftermarket motorcycle parts
• Vehicle customization services
• CNC-machined components

Headquarters

HQ city

Hamminkeln

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Infrastructure, Supply Chain, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D

Revenue model

1. New Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales: As an official Harley-Davidson contract dealer (Offizieller H-D Vertragshändler), Thunderbike sells new Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The site promotes 2025 and 2026 model year vehicles across multiple model lines including Softail, Sportster, Touring, and Dyna families.
2. Used Motorcycle Sales: Thunderbike operates a Gebrauchtfahrzeuge (used vehicle) section, selling pre-owned Harley-Davidson and other motorcycles. Dedicated used/b-stock online shop also available.
3. Custom Bike Manufacturing & Customisation Services: Thunderbike's core business is building bespoke custom Harley-Davidson motorcycles across multiple styles (Chicano, Chopper, Bobber, Cafe Racer, Showbike, Vintage, CCE). Builds range from personal employee projects to full customer commissions. The company showcases dozens of named custom builds annually.
4. Thunderbike Custom Parts & Accessories (Aftermarket): Thunderbike designs, engineers, and manufactures a proprietary range of custom motorcycle parts (wheels, fenders, fork components, seats, air ride kits, brake systems, body panels, accessories) sold through their online shop and dealer network. Also resells Harley-Davidson original accessories (H-D Original Zubehör).
5. Clothing, Apparel & Accessories Retail: Thunderbike retails motorcycling clothing, apparel, and accessories including the Thunderbike Clothing line and general motorcycle gear through their online shop.
6. Service, Repair & Maintenance: Full service workshop (Service Werkstatt) offering maintenance, repairs, and technical services for Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
7. Motorcycle Rental & Financing: Thunderbike offers motorcycle rental (Vermietung) and vehicle financing (Fahrzeugfinanzierung) services. Financing can include accessories.
8. Motorcycle Purchase (Trade-in): Thunderbike purchases used motorcycles (Fahrzeugankauf) from customers as trade-ins, integrating with their used vehicle sales programme.

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

Thunderbike is an official Harley-Davidson contract dealer and leading European custom motorcycle builder based in Hamminkeln, Germany. The company designs, engineers, and manufactures bespoke custom Harley-Davidson motorcycles (Chicano, Chopper, Bobber, Cafe Racer, Showbike, Vintage, CCE styles) and a proprietary line of CNC-machined aluminum aftermarket parts (wheels, fenders, brake systems, air ride suspensions, fork components, swingarms). It also operates a full-service dealership for new and used Harley-Davidson motorcycles, a service and custom workshop, an online shop, an independent dealer network, and the on-site Thunderbike Roadhouse venue.

Product overview

Thunderbike is a Harley-Davidson franchise dealer and leading European custom bike builder based in Hamminkeln, Germany, founded in 2006. The company operates as a multi-faceted motorcycle business organized around three interconnected product lines: (1) Custombike manufacturing — one-off bespoke and semi-bespoke Harley-Davidson custom motorcycles across distinct stylistic sub-brands including the Chicano series (Heritage-based lowrider customs), FLFB/S Fat Boy series, FXSB Breakout series, Evolution Big Twin series, and Shovelhead vintage series; (2) Proprietary Thunderbike Parts — a catalog of CNC-machined aluminum components including the Big Speed Rad (5 double-spoke, 18–23"), Gothik Rad (4 double-spoke, 18–21"), and complementary brake discs, pulleys, air ride kits, fork components, fenders, and accessories available through the Thunderbike online shop; and (3) Dealer services — new and used Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales, vehicle financing, rental, purchase, service workshop, and custom workshop with in-house CNC milling, metal fabrication, and surface finishing capabilities. Thunderbike also operates the Thunderbike Roadhouse restaurant, sells Harley-Davidson original accessories, and offers motorcycle apparel and clothing through its online store.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Custombike Manufacturing & Customization Bespoke custom Harley-Davidson motorcycle builds across multiple styles (Chicano, Chopper, Bobber, Cafe Racer, Showbike, Vintage, CCE). Covers bodywork, suspension, wheels, brakes, paint, drivetrain, electronic shifting, and assembly. Builds are individually quoted and range from semi-bespoke to one-off show bikes. Sold to individual Harley-Davidson owners and enthusiasts.
• Thunderbike Parts (Proprietary Custom Parts Catalog) Proprietary line of CNC-machined aluminum custom parts including wheels (Big Speed Rad, Gothik Rad, Digger Rad, Lowrider Rad, New Digger Rad, Spoke Rad, GP Monoblock Rad, Open Mind Rad, GT Rad, 25 Anniversary Rad, Vegas Race Rad, Vegas Cut Rad), brake discs, pulleys, air ride suspension kits, fork components, seat shells, fenders, handlebars, grips, footpegs, mirror mounts, turn signals, license plate holders, engine and clutch covers, airbox covers, and swingarm kits. Many components TÜV-certified. Sold through online shop and dealer network.
• New Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Sale of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles as an official Harley-Davidson franchise dealer, covering the Softail lineup (Fat Boy FLFB/S, Heritage FLHC/S, Street Bob FXBB/S, Breakout FXBR/S), Dyna, Touring, and VRSC model families, including 2025 and 2026 model year vehicles.
• Used Motorcycle Sales Pre-owned motorcycle sales including used Harley-Davidson and other brand motorcycles, listed both on the main website and a dedicated used/b-stock online shop.
• Service Workshop & Maintenance Full-service maintenance and repair workshop for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including technical support, care tips, and online catalog access.
• Custom Workshop (Konstruktion, Metallbau, CNC, Oberflächenveredelung) Specialized custom workshop offering in-house construction & design, metal fabrication, CNC milling, and surface finishing services to support bespoke motorcycle modifications.
• Harley-Davidson Original Accessories Online shop section selling genuine Harley-Davidson original accessories and parts.
• Motorcycle Apparel & Clothing Online shop section selling motorcycle clothing, Thunderbike-branded apparel, accessories, and protective gear.
• Motorcycle Rental Rental service for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, allowing customers to experience riding before purchasing.
• Vehicle Financing Financing options for new and used motorcycle purchases, available including accessories, offered through Thunderbike's dealer services.
• Motorcycle Purchase (Trade-in) Service to purchase used motorcycles from customers, facilitating trade-ins and direct buyouts.
• Big Speed Rad (Custom Wheel) CNC-machined aluminum custom wheel featuring a sporty 5 double-spoke design. Available in diameters 18 to 23 inches and widths 3.5 to 11.5 inches (tires up to 300mm). Offered with polished, contrast cut, or custom powder-coat finishes. Delivered complete with hubs, (ABS) bearings, sleeves, and TÜV certification. Compatible with Thunderbike Speedstar brake disc, Pulley, Pulleybrake Kit, and single-sided swingarms.
• Gothik Rad (Custom Wheel) CNC-machined aluminum custom wheel combining a classic 4 double-spoke style with an elegant look. Available in diameters 18 to 21 inches, with polished or single-color powder-coat finishes. Delivered complete with hubs, (ABS) bearings, sleeves, and TÜV certification. Compatible with Thunderbike Gothik brake disc, Pulley, or Pulleybrake Kit.
• Thunderbike Roadhouse Restaurant and event venue operated by Thunderbike, located at the Hamminkeln facility and accessible via thunderbike-roadhouse.de.

Quantifiable outcome

• Multiple championship wins at custom bike shows (European Bike Week, custombike show Bad Salzuflen)
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers5 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature8 records

Partnerships

Seven partnerships are on record, tiered core, flagship and minor.

• Harley-DavidsoncoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorThunderbike is an official Harley-Davidson contract dealer (Offizieller Harley-Davidson Vertragshändler). This is the primary brand partnership, enabling Thunderbike to sell new Harley-Davidson motorcycles, source genuine H-D parts, and benefit from the Harley-Davidson brand's market presence. Thunderbike's customisation services are offered alongside new Harley-Davidson sales, creating a full-service dealership proposition.
• MetzelerflagshipStrategic or Co-development PartnerMetzeler and Thunderbike co-developed the Metzeler ME 888 'Triple Eight' 260/35-21 rear tyre — a reintroduction of this size exclusively for Thunderbike custom builds. Thunderbike had previously specialised in fitting 21-inch rear wheels on Harley-Davidson Softail and Dyna models, and the partnership ensures supply of a performance tyre for this application. The tyre features innovative tread technology, excellent grip in wet and cold conditions, superior stability and agile handling, and higher mileage than its predecessor. Available exclusively through Thunderbike and its online shop.
• KLIKTRONICcoreTechnology or IntegrationThunderbike integrates KLIKTRONIC electronic gear shifting systems into custom Harley-Davidson builds. KLIKTRONIC regulates upshift and downshift via a handlebar-mounted button, enabling riding for people with physical disabilities. Thunderbike engineers a proprietary aluminium bracket for precise positioning on Harley-Davidson models. The system features a single moving part and is designed for reliable operation under all conditions. Thunderbike can supply and install the bracket through their workshop.
• Dr. Jekill & Mr. HydeminorGTM or Marketing PartnerThunderbike runs promotional campaigns ('Aktion') for Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde exhaust systems for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The company offers these exhaust systems at promotional pricing through their shop. Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde is a German brand known for adjustable sound-control exhaust systems (valve exhausts).
• Spirit Leather (Jimmy / Warmsbach Autosattlerei)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerSpirit Leather (Jimmy) and Warmsbach Autosattlerei are specialist leather craftsmen who produce bespoke seats for Thunderbike custom bikes. Thunderbike commissions these craftspeople for high-quality leather saddles with custom designs, medallions with Thunderbike logos, and Chicano-style upholstery. Featured on multiple Chicano builds including El Jefe Verde and El Gringo.
• Chiko (Pinstriping)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerChiko is a pinstriping and custom paint artist who collaborates with Thunderbike on Chicano and other custom builds. Thunderbike commissions multi-layer panel paintwork from Chiko that creates a luminous silhouette effect, featuring in multiple Chicano builds. Chiko's work is described as a 'real highlight' and a foundation for authentic Chicano style.
• Easyriders MagazineminorGTM or Marketing PartnerEasyriders Magazine (a leading German-language motorcycle custom culture publication) covered Thunderbike mechanic Udo Wenta's personal Shovelhead build ('Big Inches'), featuring it in Easyriders Ausgabe 1/2018. This press coverage promotes Thunderbike's craftsmanship to a targeted motorcycle enthusiast audience.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• Küryakyn: Large US aftermarket manufacturer of motorcycle accessories and custom parts for Harley-Davidson, Indian, and metric cruisers. Comparable in that it supplies a wide, branded catalogue of cruiser customisation parts through dealer networks, similar to Thunderbike Parts.
• S&S Cycle: Established US manufacturer of V-twin performance engines, exhausts, and drivetrain components for Harley-Davidson. Comparable as a long-standing, broad-line V-twin aftermarket brand that competes with Thunderbike's proprietary parts in the same enthusiast channels.

Direct peers

• Roland Sands Design: US-based performance and custom motorcycle brand founded by a former racer, producing both complete custom builds and a large proprietary aftermarket parts catalogue (wheels, brakes, exhaust, suspension). Comparable as a custom-H-D-style house with a strong in-house parts brand.
• Rick's Motorcycles: German-based Harley-Davidson custom shop and parts manufacturer with its own in-house production and dealer network. Operates in the same premium cruiser-customisation niche as Thunderbike, competing head-to-head for the German and European custom H-D customer.
• No Limit Custom: Dutch/German custom Harley-Davidson builder producing its own line of CNC-machined custom parts, fenders, and exhausts, with TÜV approval. Directly comparable in business model (custom builds + proprietary parts + dealer sales) and customer base to Thunderbike.

Regional players

• W&W Cycles: German Harley-Davidson aftermarket parts, accessories, and custom parts retailer/distributor. Comparable as a European H-D aftermarket specialist serving similar end customers and competing for the same parts wallet share as Thunderbike Parts.

Others

• Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde: German manufacturer of electronically adjustable exhaust systems for Harley-Davidson and other V-twins, sold through dealers. Currently a Thunderbike marketing/promotional partner, but operates in an adjacent category that influences the same end customer.
• Metzeler: Premium motorcycle tyre manufacturer that co-developed the exclusive ME 888 21-inch rear tyre with Thunderbike. Comparable as a strategic supplier whose products are tuned to Thunderbike's custom builds and whose exclusivity arrangement underpins Thunderbike's differentiation.
• Motorcycle Storehouse: European V-twin and cruiser aftermarket distributor/wholesaler that supplies thousands of parts (including Thunderbike-style custom parts) to dealers. Comparable as the B2B distribution layer that Thunderbike's dealer network interacts with and competes against for shelf space.

Emerging players

• Hepco & Becker: German manufacturer of motorcycle luggage, protection, and accessory systems, with deep Harley-Davidson product coverage and dealer distribution across Europe. Comparable as a German-based, dealer-sold parts/accessories brand serving the same H-D customer.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCgp3pvJYGaJWS2riSxzBUBw
• Facebookfacebook.com/ThunderbikeCustoms
• Instagraminstagram.com/thunderbikecustoms
• Pinterestpinterest.de/thunderbike
• TikToktiktok.com/@thunderbikecustom
• Xx.com/thunderbikehd

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles9 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Thunderbike