ImagesBrighton pictures of the week 18-9-2006

IMAGESBRIGHTON photography by david gray
	M O T O R C Y C L E A R T
	P I C T U R E S O F T H E W E E K 1 8 - 9 - 2 0 0 6

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Last week's feature on motorbike logos showed how bike manufacturers try to create distinct identities for their products. This week the focus is on motorcycle art, which is one of the most striking ways used by bikers to individualise their machines. Petrol tanks are decorated with fantastically detailed and colourful paintings and all manner of ornaments are attached to handlebars, lights and numberplates. The subject matter of most motorbike art is very varied, though certain themes seem especially popular. Death is a favourite and, given the grim accident statistics for bike riding, this is all too understandable. Then there is a definite fondness for Red Indians (Native Americans for the politically correct), fierce animals and, unsurprisingly, attractive young women with their kit off. All the examples of motorcycle art in this week's feature come from the Ace Cafe rallies on Brighton seafront between 1997 and 2006.

Indian chief on a petrol tank in September 1997 (image 1153-15)

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