"The idea of having my own shop had been swirling around in my head"

Kenneth Laurendz smiles and pulls away a little when I ask how he got the idea for Deathtrap-Custom AS, the shop he runs in Ski, a few miles south of Oslo. "I had worked for a few years at Harley-Davidson in Oslo, and gradually the idea of starting my own business started to come to mind," he says, leaning back on the sofa. I stand in the middle of the room, surrounded by "parts and accessories" as they are called in the trade, and notice that there are more than enough parts here to build an entire chopper. Frames, wheels, engines, handlebars, gearboxes, brakes, handlebars and levers. I could still do it from A to Z, as the company's own website attests. You'll find most of it here.

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Started in 2011

Kenneth has been running the shop at Nygårdsveien 55B since 2011. He got the idea for the somewhat unusual name of the company when he thought about vehicles that fail and break down in the hands of the owner. Kenneth's philosophy is to give customers what they need, precisely so that the motorcycle does not break down, but provides riding pleasure and good moments along the way.

Wide customer base

The clientele ranges from older guys who need the occasional original part for their old Harley, to the younger generation who build or customize their own idea of what the motorcycle should look like. In the middle of the room are two classic choppers that Kenneth has built himself, decorated with Christmas lights for the occasion. On the walls hang riding gear, of course in classic design.

Professional online store

Kenneth says he sources most of his parts through a global network. He has a workshop in the back room, and he doesn't shy away from making and customizing parts himself, if it's the last resort to complete the project. Kenneth has been forward-thinking in business terms, and has established an online store. "It's one of several pillars on which the business stands," he says, adding that "I value customers coming in, and many do. "Personal service and advice is something that many people prefer, and something I enjoy," he adds.

A shop a little out of the ordinary

Deathtrap Customs AS is worth a visit, because this is a shop a little outside the A4. The atmosphere is relaxed, you get good help from a competent guy who knows Harley-Davidson , old or new, and the selection of big and small things for the customer's needs is good. And if you have to order parts, they will come in the mail, unless you prefer to swing by and pick them up yourself, and get good advice on the way. If you live far away you can always visit the website which you can find here: www.deathtrap-curoms.com