Paul Yaffe Build
Building Beyond the Bike: Motorcycle Missions and Paul Yaffe’s Transformative Collaboration
In the heart of the motorcycle industry, where craftsmanship and passion meet, an incredible project unfolded in 2024 that was about way more than a custom bike build. Motorcycle Missions, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding Veterans and first responders dealing with PTSD, partnered with renowned builder Paul Yaffe for an unforgettable experience—Build 15, also known as the Paul Yaffe Originals Build. The result was a meticulously crafted custom performance bagger as well as a journey of healing, learning, and camaraderie for ten Marine and Army Veterans.
The Spark That Ignited the Build
This story began in 2022 at the legendary Sturgis Bike Week, where Motorcycle Missions founder Krystal Hess crossed paths with Paul Yaffe’s wife, Susie, at an industry party. Krystal, armed as usual with her brochures, brag book, and enthusiasm introduced Susie to the mission and impacts of her nonprofit. Susie got caught up in the thrill of the organization’s work and suggested reconnecting after the rally to explore the possibility of a collaborative build. While this might have gone the way of so many party conversations, Krystal felt like this was a promising connection and decided to follow up on it.
Nearly two years later, the vision finally became reality, thanks to Susie winning over her reluctant husband and State Farm’s generous sponsorship of the build. With funding secured and Yaffe’s fully on board, Build 15 officially kicked off in January 2024 at Yaffe’s Bagger Nation shop in Phoenix, Arizona.
A Shop Transformed: Veterans as Builders
Build 15 wasn’t just about creating a custom motorcycle; it was about giving Veterans the tools—both literal and metaphorical—to rebuild their confidence and purpose. Seven Veterans participated, meeting every Thursday for hands-on sessions under the guidance of Yaffe and his skilled team.
The Veteran cohort tackled every aspect of the build, from fiberglassing custom parts to cutting out and shaping the knee indentations on the tank. They prepped parts for painting and participated in welding classes to develop and refine their craftsmanship skills. The immersive experience fostered teamwork and skill-building while encouraging creativity and a passion for all things motorcycles—both mechanical performance and aesthetic perfection.
“Paul was initially reserved about having strangers in his shop handling his tools,” Krystal recalled, “but by the end, he said it was one of the most rewarding experiences he’s ever had.” But the impact wasn’t one-sided; Yaffe ended up hiring one of the Veterans who participated and expressed interest in bringing another onboard. For these Veterans, their engagement with Motorcycle Missions was life-changing, opening up a new professional pathway.
The Bike: A Custom Harley-Davidson Road Glide
The foundation for this ambitious project was a brand-new 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, courtesy of Scottsdale Harley-Davidson. Straight off the showroom floor, the bike underwent a complete transformation, evolving into a high-performance bagger destined to turn heads at any show.
A standout feature of the build was the addition of a Trask turbo kit, which doubled the horsepower of the bike’s stock 107 engine. The final result was an impressive 140 horsepower as tested on the dyno—a feat of engineering that spoke volumes about the skill and dedication of everyone involved. The Veterans also crafted custom bodywork, including a sleek front fairing and handcrafted accents that added to the bike’s aesthetic and functional appeal.
Mentorship at Its Best
Paul Yaffe, a legend in the custom motorcycle world, played a pivotal role in guiding the Veterans through every phase of the build. “Paul’s expertise and patience made all the difference,” said Krystal. “He’s meticulous and runs a tight ship, which helped keep the project on track.”
The Veterans weren’t just learning basic technical skills; they were soaking in the excellence and discipline that Yaffe exemplifies. He shared his decades of experience and entrusted his tools and techniques to men who began the build as strangers. Yaffe’s mentorship extended beyond the shop floor by creating an environment where participants felt valued and supported.
From the Shop to the Spotlight
The culmination of Build 15 was a grand reveal in late May 2024 at the Road House Bar in Cave Creek, Arizona. The debut of the custom Road Glide represented more than just a celebration of a beautifully built machine; it was a moment of triumph for the Veterans who had poured their hearts and energy into the project.
But the Road Glide’s journey didn’t end there. It made its way to Sturgis Bike Week, where it was entered into multiple shows and walked away with top honors in three out of four categories. These accolades were a testament not only to the craftsmanship of the Veterans but also to the power of teamwork and determination.
More Than a Motorcycle
While the bike itself is a masterpiece, the true legacy of Build 15 is the lives it touched. Participants spoke of how the program renewed their confidence and sense of purpose. Most of the Veterans involved in the build had lacked meaningful contact with their military peers since discharge from active duty. Being together on the build gave them a sense of belonging they had missed. The camaraderie forged during those Thursdays in the shop was a source of healing and connection, helping to break the isolation Veterans dealing with PTSD typically suffer.
Krystal shared a poignant observation: “When you see the Veterans at the beginning of a project like this, they’re often quiet and reserved. But by the end, they’re laughing, sharing stories, and standing a little taller. That’s the magic of what we do.”
Community Support: The Backbone of Success
Build 15 wouldn’t have been possible without the support of numerous partners and sponsors. Major sponsor State Farm played a role in amplifying the project’s impact, ensuring the bike’s visibility in key venues. Beyond State Farm’s financial backing, companies like Trask Performance, Rolling Art Custom Paint, and various parts suppliers contributed to the project’s success. Each donated part and service contributed to the bike’s transformation and reinforced the sense of community fostered by Motorcycle Missions.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Impact
With the success of Build 15, Motorcycle Missions has its sights set on expanding its programs to reach even more Veterans and first responders. The organization plans to continue cultivating partnerships with industry leaders like Paul Yaffe while exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
“Our goal is to keep growing,” said Krystal. “We want to offer more builds, more rides, and more ways for Veterans to reconnect with themselves and each other.”
How You Can Get Involved
Motorcycle Missions relies on the support of individuals and organizations to keep its programs running. Whether it’s through donations, sponsorships, or volunteering, every contribution makes a difference. By supporting Motorcycle Missions, you’re not just funding projects; you’re investing in the lives of Veterans and first responders who deserve a fresh start.
For more information on how to get involved, visit motorcyclemissions.org.
Final Thoughts
Build 15 stands as an example of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Through the transformative power of motorcycles, Motorcycle Missions and Paul Yaffe proved that healing comes in many forms—sometimes, it’s in the form of a turbocharged Harley-Davidson Road Glide.
This project wasn’t just about building a bike; it was about building futures. For the Veterans who participated, it was a journey of rediscovery and growth. For the motorcycle community, it was a reminder of the industry’s capacity for good. And for the rest of us, it was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the bonds that unite us. Sometimes, a single conversation, a little grit, and a lot of determination are all it takes to bring all the parts together.