This singular creation is not the result of chance or simple taste for eccentric. It is the result of artisanal work and the vision of Darren Abeyan enthusiast of the sports motorcycles and founder of Superbike Funerals. Company based in Fleetwood, Lancashire (UK) and with a very clear and concise objective: to offer the most staunch bikers a farewell that is at the height of their lifestyle.
Far from complying with the classic funeral cars, Abey has invested more than 30,000 pounds (a little more than 34,000 euros) to transform a Suzuki GSX-R1000 K4. Of course, the project has involved a radical transformation of the chassis, new front suspension fork and a completely personalized and adapted sidecar to house a coffin with security, stability and, of course, elegance.
Superbike Funerals has left nothing to chance
But, the complexity of the project cannot be underestimated. “It has been a long way. I have had to rebuild up to three times. In fact, the wheelbase of La Gixxer is so short that the sidecar did not stop destabilizing it«, He explains Darren. Based on trial and error, endless hours of adjustments and meticulous attention to detail, achieved a spectacular result.
One of the main challenges was to get a perfect balance between stability, weight and maneuverability. The Sidecar chassis was redesigned with 1.5 mm thick steel tubes (instead of the usual 3 mm), which significantly reduced the total weight and improved the dynamic behavior of the set.
Today, the vehicle weighs between 240 and 250 kilos, and in its tests it has reached speeds of up to 200 km/h, demonstrating that it is not only “facade”, but also technically impressive.
Although this is not a approved vehicle for everyday use, Darren He has coordinated funeral transfers with special authorization to operate in concrete journeys within the United Kingdom, in order to meet the wishes of deceased motorists and their families.
Beyond its mechanical spectacularity, vehicle design is impregnated with iconic motorcycling references. From illustrations of TT of the Island of Maneven tribute to myths like Joey Dunlop, Mike Hailwood and Barry Sheene. All with an aesthetic away from traditional black. “It is different, it is colorful, it is not dreary or dark. I do not want it to be a symbol of sadness, but a last tribute full of life”Says its creator.
Superbike Funerals He has already received dozens of applications for fans who wish to reserve the service in advance, or who have even incorporated this type of vehicle in their wills.
The price of a complete service currently around 1,200 pounds (approximately 1,400 euros), although it may vary depending on the distance and logistics of the transfer. Without a doubt, a different way to accompany the deceased on his last shot.
