Youngster custom-designs his own bicycle
The innovative Tembisa boy decided to build himself a unique bicycle, which he now calls his Nightron 18 cruiser bike.
Owning a bicycle is every young boy’s dream, but for Elias Phoshoko, who owned a normal BMX, his dream was to ride a unique cruiser.
The 18-year-old said he was inspired by overseas music videos, which showcased designer bikes to enhance their hip-hop style.
The innovative Tembisa boy decided to build himself a unique bicycle, which he now calls his Nightron 18 cruiser bike.
He started work on his bike by collecting scrap steel bars, some of which were brought home by his father.
He said the project took him two months.
“I thought he was crazy. I didn’t think it was going to happen, a person from e-Kasi putting together a bike without the big industrial manufacturing machines,” said his sister, Michelle Nailana (20).
He first obtained cog wheel pedals and started welding the steel bars together.
“I built the frame and welded it myself. The welding was self-taught,” he said.
He then bought 26 inch rims and some sheet metal, which he cut in a triangular shape to cover the spokes.
“The wheels were too standard. It needed style. The control bars are designed in such a way that the rider can lean back and still be close to the controls.
“I chose the colour gold because it resembles wealth. When I’m dressed to kill, it must complement my style and support the statement,” said the youngster, who also designs his own clothes.
He said when he came up with the idea, he knew it was going to work and it was going to be a proper bicycle.
Elias plans on building more bikes.
He said the bicycle is a stunning creation to everyone.
“Taxi drivers, cars and pedestrians stop to ask questions. I tell them it is custom-designed and they disagree. People in Kempton Park even stopped me. I told them I built the bike but they didn’t believe it until I showed them pictures of my work in progress,” said Elias.
