Business Details
28 Years
experience
Custom Motorcycles & Restoration Services in Victoria, BC
Founded in 1998, Whiplash Customs has evolved from a detailing service into a premier custom motorcycle and restoration shop under the leadership of Al Lambeth. With over 35 years of metal fabrication expertise, we specialize in transforming visions into reality through custom builds, vintage restorations, and precision metalwork. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship is evident in every project, from one-of-a-kind motorcycles to cherished memorabilia. We prioritize personalized service, using top-tier materials and time-honored techniques to deliver exceptional results. Our reputation for excellence stems from a deep respect for automotive history and an unwavering attention to detail.Whether restoring a classic car or creating a custom bike, we approach each project with passion and professionalism. Our workshop combines modern innovation with vintage tools to ensure authenticity and durability. Clients benefit from our extensive parts network and two-day turnaround capabilities. Located in Victoria, BC, we serve clients across Vancouver Island and beyond, offering a unique blend of technical skill and artistic vision. Our work speaks for itself through completed projects that celebrate individuality and mechanical artistry.
Services
Custom Motorcycle Builds
Vintage Restoration
Metal Fabrication
Classic Car Restoration
Oil & Lube Service
Parts Installation
Body & Paint Work
Motorcycle Internals
Custom Metal Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of specialized metal fabrication expertise
- Our personalized consultations ensure projects match client visions
- We use premium materials and vintage tools for authentic results
- We provide comprehensive services from concept to completion
- Our parts network enables efficient two-day turnaround times
Services
Custom Motorcycle Builds
We design and construct one-of-a-kind motorcycles tailored to client specifications. Our process combines artistic vision with technical expertise to create unique machines that reflect individual style. From initial concept to final assembly, our builds emphasize quality components and meticulous attention to detail.
Vintage Restoration
Specializing in restoring vintage motorcycles, cars, and memorabilia to original condition. We employ traditional techniques and authentic materials to preserve historical accuracy while ensuring modern functionality. Our restorations maintain the integrity of original designs while meeting contemporary performance standards.
Metal Fabrication
We create custom metal components and structures using both modern equipment and restored vintage tools. Our fabrication services include custom frames, body panels, and decorative elements. Each piece receives hand-finished detailing to achieve superior quality and aesthetic appeal.
Classic Car Restoration
We restore classic automobiles with emphasis on preserving original design while enhancing performance. Our services cover complete disassembly, metalwork, paint, and mechanical rebuilding. We specialize in both American muscle cars and European classics, maintaining historical accuracy throughout the restoration process.
Oil & Lube Service
We provide routine maintenance for motorcycles and classic vehicles, including oil changes and lubrication. Our technicians use quality fluids and follow manufacturer specifications to ensure optimal performance. Regular maintenance helps preserve the longevity and reliability of custom and vintage machines.
People
Al Lambeth
Owner
With over 35 years of metal fabrication experience, Al Lambeth founded Whiplash Customs in 1998. He specializes in custom motorcycle builds and vintage restorations, combining technical expertise with artistic vision. Al personally oversees every project to ensure quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction.
Questions
What types of motorcycles do you specialize in?
We work on Harley Davidsons, Triumphs, BSAs, Hondas, Suzukis, Yamahas, and all other makes. Our expertise covers choppers, cafe racers, bobbers, and vintage scooters.
Do you restore classic cars as well as motorcycles?
Yes, we restore American muscle cars, European classics, vintage automobiles, and trucks. Our services include complete restorations and mechanical upgrades for all classic vehicle types.
How long does a typical restoration project take?
Project timelines vary based on complexity, but we maintain regular communication throughout the process. We balance thoroughness with efficiency to deliver quality results without unnecessary delays.
Can you help with custom design ideas?
We collaborate with clients to develop custom designs that reflect their personal style. Our team provides expert guidance on material selection, performance enhancements, and aesthetic elements.
Do you offer parts sourcing services?
Yes, we have extensive supplier relationships and can source both modern performance parts and vintage components. Our network enables efficient two-day turnaround for most parts orders.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Victoria, BC, we serve clients throughout Vancouver Island and beyond. We can accommodate long-distance projects through detailed communication and documentation.
Reviews (5)
Crystal Liimatta
Dec 15, 2021
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My husband and I contacted Al at Whiplash Customs to see about having our vintage coke water bath cooler restored. We are so glad we found Al, we were not at all disappointed. Our cooler looks brand new now. Al did such a fantastic work of art on this baby, it is like it just rolled out of the 40/50's. We are so happy to be displaying and using our cooler in our games room. She is a real beauty. Thanks so much Al.
Jordan Rokosz
Oct 10, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
Without question, Al is the best mechanic I've ever had and is the only place I will be bringing my bike from now on. Friendly, knowledgeable, detail oriented, and with prices that are more than fair. I am extremely grateful to have someone like this who can fix a classic bike. Highly recommended!
Without question, Al is the best mechanic I've ever had and is the only place I will be bringing my bike from now on. Friendly, knowledgeable, detail oriented, and with prices that are more than fair. I am extremely grateful to have someone like this who can fix a classic bike. Highly recommended!
Lyndall O'Sullivan
Aug 10, 2021
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Al is the very best. We have had Al restore or maintain half a dozen motorcycles, vintage and modern, and his work is always meticulous. Al also restores vintage gas pumps, soda coolers and memorabilia, pedal cars, old cars and trucks, and all sorts of other cool stuff so there is always something neat to look at when you're at the Whiplash Customs shop. We don't trust anyone else with our builds or restorations.
Jamie Sargent
Jul 22, 2021
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Thank you Al for the fantastic job you did finishing the restoration of my 1981 Honda 200. I very much value the care and personal touch you put into this project. You were also very respectful of the work that our good friend Gord Bean completed on the bike prior to his sudden passing in December 2020. This little bike is a tribute to him.
Dave Nicholson
Jun 28, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
Al painted my motorcycle saddle bags, they were 14 years old and pretty scarred up from a hard life. The bags are a challenging shape and Al did an amazing job. They truly look better than new. the quality of surface prep, painting and clear coat came out flawless. Excellent value for the work performed.
Al painted my motorcycle saddle bags, they were 14 years old and pretty scarred up from a hard life. The bags are a challenging shape and Al did an amazing job. They truly look better than new. the quality of surface prep, painting and clear coat came out flawless. Excellent value for the work performed.