“Knuckle Head Charlie”

Traveling around the biker world, there are lots of people that cross our path.  Some of the people we integrate with only for a moment.  Others turn into long and lasting relationships. The biker world is filled with those that think they are bikers, but reality is, they cannot fill the shoes.

Occasionally, you do meet a real biker that is a uniquely talented individual  “Knuckle Head Charlie” was one of those people.  From his old cars, player pianos, toy electric trains and of course, Harley-Davidson motorcycles.  A collector of vintage 40’s Harley motorcycles, Charlie owned several of these bikes along with thousands of parts.  Yes, thousands of parts.

Wandering through his shop, one would notice hundreds of boxes neatly labeled and stuffed on shelves that line the walls.  Antique milling machines, lathes, etc.  In Charlie’s own way, this shop was a tribute to pre World War II technology.  His shop is always open even when it was after hours.  Whether you stopped by just to talk or if you needed something in particular, Charlie opened up; it’s just how he is.  Routinely a group of bikers would congregate at Charlie’s.  Here they would talk about everything from old kerosene lanterns to politics, but mostly the conversations revolved around motorcycles and the life these bikers live.  You could bet they were cooking something over a fire and drinking a cool adult beverage while conducting these debates.

Charlie is one of those rare people that is real good at whatever he sets his mind to do.  He could repair or rebuild “anything” as long as you were not in a big hurry.  This quite modest man was humble about his talents and in no way desired any attention for his unique abilities.  On top of the world satisfied with his quaint shop and with the feeling, his customers are friends rather than just customers.

A true biker in every sense of what we consider a biker to be.  Sadly, the good die young.  Early in April of 2007, Charlie passed away.  Too young and too soon, his laughter and knowledge will be missed by many.  Look for the 2nd annual Knuckle Head Charlie benefit party April 19th, 2008.  For further information, check with Hank & Jerry’s Tavern, located at 1504 Old Salem Road, SE, Conyers, GA; 770-483-2200.

Live free, die free,
Valdez Hitt