Motorcycles aren’t just machines—they’re an extension of who their riders are. A statement. A rolling legacy. And few styles capture that soul better than the Vicla. More than just a look, Vicla is a culture fueled by passion.
But don’t mistake tradition for being stuck in the past. The Vicla scene is alive, evolving, and thriving, with every chrome detail and stretched fender telling a new chapter of the story. So, what keeps this movement roaring? Let’s dive into the deep Latin roots, the unmistakable style, and the die-hard community that makes Vicla one of the most passionate forces in the motorcycle world and what makes a Vicla, a Vicla.
The Legacy Behind the Vicla Movement
Today, Vicla motorcycles are rolling works of art, steeped in history, culture, self-expression and pride. While their candy colors, hand-engraved chrome, and airbrushed murals make them visually striking, their roots go deeper than aesthetics. Vicla culture is a direct extension of the lowrider movement, a legacy of Mexican-American and Latin artistry that emerged from decades of social change, cultural resilience, and the fight for identity.
Lowrider Culture: Where It All Began
Lowrider culture emerged in Mexican-American communities in California, where cars became a symbol of identity and self-expression. After World War II, Mexican-American veterans—like many others—returned home with disposable income and new mechanical skills. But rather than chasing speed like hot rodders, they began modifying cars with a bajito y suavecito ("low and slow") philosophy.
At the same time, mainstream American culture often pushed assimilation over self-expression, especially among minorities, leaving little room for cultural pride. Customizing cars became a creative act of defiance, a way for Mexican Americans to take up space and celebrate their heritage.
By the 1960s and ‘70s, lowriding had evolved into a full-blown movement, with car clubs forming across the Southwest as symbols of unity and cultural pride. During this time, the Latin Movement (El Movímíento) was gaining momentum, fighting for civil rights and elevating Mexican-American heritage through art, music, and activism. This wave of cultural expression influenced everything from art to fashion and, naturally, motorcycles.
As lowrider culture expanded, its influence migrated onto two wheels. Bikers adopted the same bold paint, intricate engraving, and custom craftsmanship, giving birth to the Vicla movement—a fusion of Latin identity and American motorcycle culture that continues to thrive today.
The Artistic Influence Behind Vicla Motorcycles
Paintwork is one of the most defining features of a Vicla. Pinstriping, airbrushed murals, and candy-colored paint create bold, eye-catching designs, often inspired by Latin, Mexican, Mayan, and Aztec culture. But the artistry doesn’t stop with paint. Even chrome engravings on handlebars, engine covers, and exhaust tips hold personal meaning. Some riders carve religious symbols, while others engrave family names or club insignias as a badge of identity. Hand-tooled leather, like on seats and saddlebags, often showcase traditional craftsmanship, reinforcing the rich cultural connection that makes every Vicla unique.
Mr. Cartoon: A Cultural Icon
One of the most influential figures in the Lowrider and Latin art scene is Mister Cartoon—a legendary tattoo artist, painter, and designer from Los Angeles. His work bridges the gap between street art and high fashion, with his distinctive tattoo and mural style seen on everything from cars and motorcycles to global brands. Cartoon’s influence on Vicla and Lowrider aesthetics is undeniable, blending graffiti, fine-line tattoos, and airbrush techniques into a signature style that represents the soul of the culture.
Mr. Cartoon’s art, along with other lowrider cultural art expressions has been become so important that art has been preserved and showcased all over the world in museums and exhibitions - an art that doesn’t stay on the street.
What Makes a Vicla? The Right Bike & Must-Have Mods
The Best Bikes for a Vicla Build
While nearly any cruiser can be customized, certain models have become the gold standard for Vicla builds due to their classic lines, ample chrome, and customization potential.
- Harley-Davidson® Softail® – A Vicla favorite for its timeless styling and low-slung stance.
- Harley-Davidson® Heritage® and Fatboy® – Blends retro aesthetics with modern comfort, ideal for long-haul rides.
- Indian® Chief Vintage® – An alternative for riders looking for classic lines with a distinctive Indian® Motorcycle touch.
Defining Vicla Style: Must-Have Mods
Every build is unique, but most Viclas share a few signature features:
- Sleek, Flowing Lines – Curved handlebars and stretched fenders create a long, smooth silhouette, reinforcing the “low and slow” aesthetic.
- Chrome Everywhere – If it can shine, it will. Vicla Motorcycless are dripping in polished and engraved metalwork.
- Custom Paint Jobs – Many designs showcase Latin heritage, with cultural motifs, religious symbols, or personal tributes.
- Ape-Hanger Handlebars – Whether high or slightly relaxed, bold handlebars define a Vicla’s iconic stance.
- Extended Fenders – The long, flowing fenders that set Viclas apart often feature custom engraving or detailed paintwork.
- Signature Exhaust Pipes – Nothing says Vicla like a fishtail exhaust system, delivering that distinctive lowrider-inspired sound.
- Engraved Chrome – Every detail, from handlebar grips to exhaust pipes, can be adorned with hand-engraved designs.
- Hand-Tooled Leather – Hand-tooled leather highlight traditional craftsmanship, enhancing the rich cultural connection that defines every Vicla.
Why the Vicla Scene Is Still Thriving
The Vicla scene is an evolving culture that continues to draw in new riders while staying true to its roots. One of the biggest reasons for its longevity is that it’s about community, not just custom motorcycles. The deep connection to Latin identity and the custom lowrider tradition ensures that this style remains relevant, not just as an aesthetic statement but as a living expression of history.
Customization also plays a huge role in keeping the scene alive. The endless possibilities for personalization and the evolution of paint techniques, chrome detailing, and modern performance upgrades ensure that the style never gets stale. Riders today fuse old-school aesthetics with new technology, keeping things fresh without ever sacrificing that signature Vicla soul.
Social media and motorcycle events have also helped propel the culture forward, giving riders a global stage to showcase their builds, connect with like-minded enthusiasts, and inspire the next generation. Whether it’s through massive shows, dedicated Vicla rides, or internet communities, the movement continues to grow, bringing in new riders from across the global community who appreciate both the artistry and cultural significance of these motorcycles.
What started over 80 years ago as an expression of pride in the barrios of post-war California has now spread worldwide. From Asia to Europe, Central to South America, and even the Middle East, people continue to embrace lowrider and Vicla culture, keeping its traditions alive while adding their own modern twists.
More Than a Bike, It's a Lifestyle
The Vicla is more than a motorcycle style—it’s a rolling tribute to Latin culture, Mexican American heritage, and self-expression. Rooted in the lowrider tradition and embraced by riders across Mexico and the U.S., it continues to evolve while staying true to its origins. More than just standing out, the Vicla honors history, embraces identity, and creates something timeless. Like lowriders, these motorcycles are moving canvases, blending tradition and innovation with every custom detail. And as long as passion fuels the culture, the Vicla movement will continue to thrive—loud, proud, and unapologetically original.
If you're looking to bring your own Vicla vision to life, Klock Werks has the parts and expertise to help you build a motorcycles that embodies both tradition and individuality. Contact our Krew today or explore our selection of windshields, fenders, handlebars, and other model-specific accessories built for Vicla-style Motorcycles.
