TEN GRAND… ZERO COMPROMISES.
Local Bike Builder takes top honours at the Rutherglen Rumble Budget Bike Build
In a custom scene often dominated by big budgets, the Budget Bike Build at the Rutherglen Rumble proves that creativity and craftsmanship still rule. The challenge was simple, build a standout custom motorcycle for under $10,000. Rising above the competition was Yackandandah bike builder and custom painter Dion Hearn of Coolaid Concepts, who delivered a bike that looked anything but budget.
At the heart of the build is a RevTech 100 cubic inch Evolution style motor that began life seized and stripped. Dion pulled it down then rebuilt it from the ground up, honing the cylinders, fitting new rings, and re-truing the crank before adding performance upgrades including a bigger cam, ported heads, roller rockers, and a Dyna ignition.
A DaVinci built G-series S&S carburettor completes the package, giving the bike serious performance to match its looks.
Keeping within budget meant relying on skill rather than spending, and that’s where this build truly shines. Dion fabricated much of the bike himself, including modifying the frame, and hand making handlebars, air cleaner, chain guard, rear rocker box, top motor mount, and even the rear wheel. It’s a level of hands-on craftsmanship that separates true builders from parts assemblers.
The attention to detail is evident throughout, starting with the one off fuel tank. Hand formed from 2mm aluminium, it began as six individual sections before being welded into a seamless, art deco-inspired design. It’s a striking centrepiece that sets the tone for the entire bike.
At the rear, a handmade six spoke Invader style wheel machined from scratch polished aluminium provides a bold visual anchor, paired with a rear guard shaped from a single sheet of aluminium. Even the air cleaner tells a story, once a broken S&S unit, it’s been rebuilt and enhanced with a custom spear detail, turning discarded parts into standout features.
The paintwork elevates the build even further. Finished in Flake Chief silver flake with rich red candy layered over the top and completed with custom airbrushed graphics, the result is deep, vibrant, and show-quality, well beyond what you’d expect from a $10K build.
With over 30 years of experience and trade qualifications in panel beating, painting, fabrication, and body making, Dion Hearn brings a lifetime of skill to every project. This bike is not just a competition entry; it’s a reflection of that experience and a statement of what can be achieved with the right mindset.
Taking the win at the Rutherglen Rumble is a major milestone, but for Dion Hearn it’s just the beginning. With plans to continue refining his craft, building even better bikes, and expanding the reach of Coolaid Concepts, one thing is clear, this is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more of in future.
Follow his journey on Instagram: @coolaidconcepts Top of Form
Whitey (Mick ‘Whitey’ White is an Aussie YouTuber (@ThatHarleyCouple) and Co-Presenter of Australia’s Biker Show’ Hogs, Cogs and Two Aussie Flogs.)
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