Copper Mike Brings Out the Artistry of Bikes

Copper Mike with Deborah, who runs the business with him, and their assistant Terence Musto at the Foodies for a Cause Event

One of the great things about Long Island is that you never know who you are going to run into.  For example, I did not know that Mike Cole, Contractors for Kids Charity supporter, was actually “Copper Mike,” someone featured on HD Discovery Channel’s “Two Wheel Thunder” and known for creating one of a kind handmade motorcycles with high-performance value, impeccable attention to detail, and a combination of vintage and contemporary components that make each bike unique.

Copper Mike grew up in Bethpage and now lives in Massapequa.  His shop, Gravesend Cycles, is located in Lindenhurst, but you may have seen some of his designs at various charity events, high end boutiques (like Atrium in NYC or Miami), or featured in various hotels and casinos as a timeless piece of artwork.  I met up with Mike this week to talk about how he got started, his creative process, and what the future holds for Gravesend Cycles.

*Note: As of May 24, Copper Mike’s bike “Precious Metals” (pictures below) and some other pieces were featured at Lady Gaga’s CD Release at a NYC Best Buy!  

NH: Tell me some things about yourself.  How did you get started building bikes?

Copper Mike:  I have been riding since I was 18.  I always loved motorcycles, and I started tinkering with them.  About 6-7 years ago, I started building bikes full time.  I wanted to do special, one of a kind bikes that no one has seen before.

NH:  So everything is made from scratch?

Copper Mike: I mostly use vintage Harley motors, and I mix them with new rims, handmade tanks, fenders, and air cleaners.  I customize the bikes with platinum leaf coating, precious metals, 14K gold, and I obviously love copper.  The bikes are built to ride, but some collectors could put them in their living room, for example.

NH: Have you seen any trends in what people look for in motorcycles?

Copper Mike: I consider myself an artist.  I do what’s in my mind, and hopefully people will like it and buy them.  I don’t do theme bikes.  I will throw in a touch of what people want, but I like to have my own creativity.  That way my bikes are always timeless and will never go out of style.

NH: What do you like best about building bikes?

Copper Mike: I love building them.  The best part is watching someone appreciate a piece of work.  I like to stand back and watch people admire the bike when they don’t know I’m looking, and hearing their honest opinion about the finished product.  I also love designing the different parts of the bikes.  I like to pull together different artists who can add different touches to make the bike exactly how I want.

NH: What is your favorite bike you have ever done?

 

Copper Mike: The next one I am going to build.

NH: What does the future hold for Gravesend Cycles and Copper Mike?

Copper Mike: A gallery from Manhattan recently contacted me to do an exhibition  (See below for more info)  I am going to have 5 finished bikes available for sale, 1 bike in the making to show people what the process looks like, and a few other pieces I am working on.  (Mike showed me a copper guitar and VW trunk lid as some examples of his other pieces of artwork he will be showing.)  I love motorcycles, and to me they are pieces of art that show who I am inside.

Well said Mike!  He was also very modest, though.  After doing some more research, I found out that Mike is one of few people to be invited to the Las Vegas Artistry in Iron event for the second year, in addition to being featured in numerous magazines.  Check out the pictures of two of his bikes below, “Precious Metals” and “Nothing’s Easy.”  I was also lucky enough to get a sneak peak at “Steampunk,” a brand new bike that will be unveiled at his NYC exhibit on June 24.

For more information about Copper Mike or Gravesend Cycles, email info@coppermike.com, call 631-433-3173, or visit their website.

Copper Mike’s NYC Exhibit:

PJS Exhibitions
238 W. 14^th St, 212-242-2427
Grand Opening:  June 24, 2011
Exhibition will run for 40 days

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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3 Responses to “Copper Mike Brings Out the Artistry of Bikes”

1. Richard Stinson says:

   May 22, 2011 at 6:32 pm

   Mike, and his beautiful wife, are two of the nicest people you would ever have the privilege to meet. Their blessings are earned and the world is a better place because they are a part of it.

   Reply
2. Scott Carter says:

   May 23, 2011 at 2:56 pm

   Mike, once again you have proven to be in a league of your own. These bikes are rolling artwork and just beautiful. I look forward to the future creativity of your designs, they are a true marvel. All the best to you.

   Reply
3. Deborah says:

   June 21, 2011 at 10:54 pm

   You are all very kind and the sincere words are always appreciated! We cant thank you enough…always thankful for your support and try to make it to the Gallery Opening this Friday night! Details on out website & FB!

   Reply