A visit by Rusty’s Bike Shed.

Dave Willems

At Rusty Stitches, we’re drawn to the world of custom motorcycles, a place where passion and craftsmanship collide to create bikes as unique as their owners. It’s a culture that inspires us to pursue quality with an edge, embracing originality and stepping away from the crowd. Tonight, we’re heading to Dave Willems Custom Motorcycles, a workshop in the heart of Zevenaar, Holland.

It’s late and already dark when we arrive, but even before we step inside, we’re welcomed by the glow of a vintage gas pump, custom-painted and illuminated by a neon “OPEN” sign. Inside, Dave and his son, Sem, greet us with big smiles and a much-needed cup of coffee. It’s the perfect start to an evening of stories, builds, and serious bike inspiration.

A brief overview of Dave Willems custom motorcycles
With years of experience in his shop, Dave Willems has earned a solid reputation in the custom motorcycle scene. From building one-of-a-kind customs to adding unique touches to existing bikes, Dave handles it all, whether it’s a full custom project, a routine carb clean, or general maintenance.

YOU DREAM IT, WE BUILD IT, YOU RIDE IT

Who is Dave?
Dave Willems is the driving force behind this custom shop. Before earning his reputation for unique, handcrafted motorcycles, Dave’s career spanned everything from running his own security company to working in TV productions. But even in those roles, his true passion was always motorcycles, often spending his free time tinkering in the garage.

One day, while Dave was between jobs, someone approached him with a proposal that would become a turning point in his career. The man, impressed by the bikes Dave had built for himself, asked if he could create a custom bike just for him. At the time, Dave had both the interest and the time, so he took on the project, unaware that this single decision would end up changing his life.

That custom bike, entered the BigTwin Custom Bike Show in Houten NL and won first prize. Suddenly, Dave’s work was in the spotlight, and friends were encouraging him to turn motorcycle building into a full-time career. Inspired, Dave took the leap, knowing his craftsmanship and creativity could build something truly meaningful. And with that, Dave Willems Custom Motorcycles was born!

Starting in a modest workshop, Dave remembers, “Back then, I only had a small, affordable space to work, and a couple simple tools.” But as word spread, demand grew, leading to the awesome shop he now runs. “Now we have all the tools we need and eight motorcycle lifts, a big difference from the old days, I tell you.”

“Building this business from scratch wasn’t easy,” he reflects, “but I did it! And what makes it even more special nowadays is that, for the past two years, I’ve been working with my son, Sem.”

Who is Sem?
At 20, Sem’s passion for motorized two-wheelers runs deep. He loves riding his tuned 100cc moped (Honda MB) and hitting the motocross track. Sem’s love for two wheels is undeniable. Though he first trained as an automotive mechanic, he came to realize that modern cars couldn’t hold his interest. His focus naturally shifted to motorcycles. When he shared this with Dave, his father didn’t hesitate. “Why not? Let’s give it a try,” Dave said.

Since that day, Sem has continued learning and refining his mechanical skills and design understanding, and he’s really showing his potential. “Of course, I already saw that in him,” Dave says, “but it’s also something you have to prove, even if he is my son. My clients still expect high-quality work and creativity, which means you need strong technical skills and a good eye for design. I think he has a promising future ahead of him.”

In the spotlight: the ‘Purple Pan’ Harley-Davidson Panhead Bobber

Recently, Dave and Sem finished an extraordinary project: a bold, purple Harley-Davidson Panhead Bobber, named the ‘Purple Pan’. With its matte purple finish, this bike is a true showstopper. Commissioned by a Harley enthusiast, the project began when a 1950 Panhead arrived at their shop in crates. Piece by piece, Dave and Sem transformed this pile of parts into a custom bike together. Naturally, some new components had to be sourced, and many parts were custom-made or adapted by hand in the workshop.

Dave shares, “When we start building a new project like this, I love standing by the bike with the client to decide together on the direction we’re taking.” For this build, though, everything fell into place naturally; they both had the same vision. “I’ll admit,” he laughs, “I wasn’t sure about the idea of painting it purple at first. But in the end, it was the perfect choice for this bike.”

The ‘Purple Pan’ strikes a beautiful balance between classic design and modern flair. At Rusty Stitches, we admire it not just for its looks, but also for its functionality. After all, bikes are made to be ridden. Nearly every element of this bike was crafted in-house by Dave and Sem, though they called in a few experts for the engine and paint: Bart Hendriks rebuilt the engine, and Frank Stienen handled the paintwork.

For more photos of the ‘Purple Pan,’ check out this [link] or pick up the latest issue of BigTwin magazine, where it’s proudly featured.

Before we go, we have a few quick questions for you, Dave and Sem.
Because we want to know about the best parties to attend and get some advice on visiting new shops.

What are your favorite motorcycle events?
Built Not Bought Chopper Fest (Netherlands) and the RMC Choppershow.

Do you have any tips of other bike shops we should visit?
Laseur Motoren and Small Town Customs.

First impressions of the new Glenn jacket?
I’m honestly surprised by how good this jacket feels, comfortable, well-made, with a classic look that really works for me.

Thank you, Dave and Sem, for sharing a few hours with us! At Rusty Stitches, we’re inspired by the dedication and passion that bring each of your builds to life. It’s incredible to see how raw materials transform into extraordinary machines under your hands. Thank you for having us at your shop!