The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is pleased to be the new home for an all wooden motorcycle built by wood artist Mike Sohn of Hannibal, Missouri. The bike, which is modeled after a 1909 Harley-Davidson Twin took a year and a half to complete. The artist estimates there are at least nine different kinds of wood in the creation.
“We are so excited to have this piece of art in our museum,” said Christine Paige Diers, Executive Director of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. “I’m completely amazed by the detail of this motorcycle – everything, down to the springs on the seat is a true work of art.
I’m always excited to add new items to the museum’s collection, and am thrilled that Mike thought the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum would be the right home for this piece for the next couple of years.” Sohn delivered the motorcycle to the museum this summer, and despite being professionally crated for the trip, Mike still had to make some minor repairs once it was uncrated and set in place.
Mike Sohn is a long-time wood artist based in Hannibal, Missouri. Sohn’s passion for woodworking began at a young age and developed over time. The self taught artist has produced many small scale pieces such as a jalapeño pepper titled “Running Hot” and a light bulb dubbed “Lighten Up.”
Now retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, Sohn has been able to direct his attention towards much larger projects. He selects his projects based on what happens to strike his passion or interest. Sohn often finds himself inspired by everyday objects especially automobiles. Examples of some of his more accomplished work include an American Chopper motorcycle, and 1909 Harley-Davidson and a Model T car. Some of Mike’s work can be seen at his website at http://www.planettees.com/mikesohn.php.
