Welcome to Framecrafters!

Framecrafters is a performance motorcycle fabrication shop located in northwest Illinois. Originally a design and fabrication shop for chassis only, Framecrafters has methodically expanded their focus to the entire motorcycle. While still specializing in frame and associated parts fabrication, Framecrafters also offers their expertise of building, converting, and restoring motorcycles for their customers. Randy, Justin, and Karsten are life long motorcycle enthusiasts who ride and race. Street, trail, track, each type is viewed by Framecrafters as an important part of motorcycling that should be fun and exhilarating. From building a ground up racer to resuscitating your old street bike, Framecrafters is proud to offer their services to help realize your vision.

Featured Projects

Triumph 750 Triple S4RR

The machine that started it all for Framecrafters the 1970 Triumph 750 Trident. Inspired by Rob North and Colin Seeley, Randy Illg and said time partner Jim Carlson built frame #1 for his Triumph Triple road racer. Originally raced as a production bike from 1984-1988 it was then transformed into the "Red" Formula 750 machine in the winter of 88'-89'. Retired in 1993 having been raced to some regional titles the machine took a semi-permanent residency in a dusty corner of the shop. In 2005 Karsten Illg , Randy's 2nd son, took the initiative to bring it back to life. While making some revisions to the original frame design the machine slowly began its road to restoration. Eight slow years of rebuilding, refinishing, replacing parts and pieces the machine transformed. Not having been on a track in 20 years the FC #1 Triumph Triple (now blue) was successfully raced at the AHRMA Road America event in June 2013. Piloted by Karsten Illg in the Formula 750 class he managed a 2nd place.

Bultaco TSS-Metrella 250rr

Another creation by FC adopting the best with both the Bultaco TSS and Metrella design principals to create a unique road race chassis. Beautifully finished by the owner and utilizing an Evan Wilcox alloy seat and tank.

Honda CB550-Black Mono

Originally beginning life as a 1974 Honda CB550K model it has undergone serious transformation over the past 2 years. A full 600cc custom engine by Godffreys Garage, centralized shock conversion coupled to an extensive list of handmade custom FC parts this build hardly reflects your typical Honda CB anymore. A conscious effort was made to retain some retro styling cues while removing the 70's era drab. Many of the stock components were deemed "under-performing" additionally we didnt want to recreate your typical "Cafe Racer". Prior to getting into this project we discussed many options with the Minnesota customer. After many variables and possibilities being looked at the conclusion was to reflect the owners gorgeous Porsche 911 Turbo. Featured Specifications; -Central Swingarm/shock conversion -37mm fork w\ GVE internals and 20mm axle conversion -FC billet adjustable Triple-clamps -Dual Brembo front brake w\300mm rotors and FC billet mounts -Custom front and rear SS brake lines -Alloy rims and SS spokes -Billet QC racing rear hub -Brembo rear brake kit w\ FC billet hanger and stay -FC billet adjustable rear sets -FC modded fuel tank w\ dual Pingles -Custom seat and Porsche leather upholstery -FC 4 into 4 racing exhaust w\ billet FC hangers -NHK Steering Damper and billet mount -520 chain\sprocket conversion -Full Dyna Ignition -Full electronics update including custom harness and Ballistic battery -Electronic gauge w\ speedo and tach -600cc motor -Brembo Hydro clutch conversion -Custom engine covers -Rebuilt carbs w\ custom finish, jetting and 1\4 turn throttle -Barnett cables and clutch pack -Polished and sealed billet parts -Porsche "Basalt Black" custom paint -Custom gold anodizing and zinc plating ------------------------------------- Photography courtesy of Rick Manning and Combined Design

What's New?

March: Framecrafters has officially entered its 7th country. One of last month's Trackmaster builds will be in New Zealand by the end of March. We thank everyone for their continued support and interest in Framecrafters products.

Framecrafters is looking forward to the 2014 racing season. Several new race build are in their final stages, including the resurrection of our Yamaha Moto3 project and a new Premier 500 road race build. Please visit our "Racing" page for more upcoming info and our 2013 race review and summary.

Framecrafters will be making a formal media release in the next few weeks regarding Team FC sponsors and supporters for the 2014 season.

Framecrafters is excited to announce its upcoming Twin builds with American, European and Japanese engine platforms coupled to the 5th generation BMGP chassis kits.
February: As we head into the final stretch of the Midwest winter, Framecrafters has completed a run of various Trackmaster frames and S4RR (Seeley type) frame kits. Please visit our "Project" page for the latest pictures and stories on these winter builds.

Framecrafters is diligently working to deliver several more frame orders, providing everyone the opportunity to enjoy the 2014 riding season. Most notably, our popular FAT Featherbed and Yamaha HL500's kits are at the top of the list.