Guy Willison is a name that resonates deeply within the world of custom motorcycles. Known as one of Britain’s most talented and authentic bike builders, Guy Willison has spent decades turning metal, fuel, and imagination into rolling works of art. As a renowned British motorcycle designer, television personality, and founder of 5Four Motorcycles, he has captured the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts across the United Kingdom and beyond. His journey from humble beginnings in the British motorcycling scene to becoming a household name on TV shows such as The Motorbike Show and Shed and Buried is a testament to his skill, creativity, and genuine love for two wheels.
Guy Willison is widely admired for his mastery in the art of motorcycle craftsmanship. As a builder, engineer, and TV personality, he combines technical precision with an artist’s sensibility, creating bikes that are both functional and emotionally captivating. His workshop is a sanctuary of creativity — a place where classic motorcycles are reborn through painstaking attention to detail and a passion for timeless design. Viewers around the world have come to recognize him not only as a brilliant British motorcycle builder but also as a true gentleman of the craft. His unique blend of authenticity and creativity has made him one of the most respected figures in modern motorcycling culture.
Through his brand, 5Four Motorcycles, Guy Willison has built a legacy based on integrity, design excellence, and engineering perfection. His collaborations with Honda UK, including the creation of the Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition, have solidified his position as a visionary in custom motorcycle design in the UK. Every project he undertakes reflects his unwavering dedication to quality, blending old-school craftsmanship with contemporary performance.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Guy Willison |
| Profession | British Motorcycle Designer, Builder, and Television Personality |
| Known For | Founder of 5Four Motorcycles, appearances on The Motorbike Show and Shed and Buried |
| Nationality | British |
| Industry | Custom Motorcycle Design, Vintage Motorbike Restoration, Television |
| Famous Projects | Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition, bespoke café racer builds, handcrafted motorcycles |
| Television Shows | The Motorbike Show (ITV4), Shed and Buried (BBC), Find It, Fix It, Flog It |
| Collaborators | Henry Cole, Allen Millyard, and the Henry Cole Team |
| Company Founded | 5Four Motorcycles, based in the United Kingdom |
| Design Style | Classic meets modern — handcrafted, café racer-inspired, and performance-driven |
| Major Brand Collaborations | Honda UK, Triumph Motorcycles, Royal Enfield, Norton Motorcycles |
| Workshop Location | London, United Kingdom |
| Specialization | Custom motorcycle design, restoration craftsmanship, and modern retro bikes |
| Active Years | Over 25 years in the motorcycle industry |
| Legacy | Inspiring British motorcycling culture through craftsmanship, authenticity, and innovation |
Early Life
The story of Guy Willison begins in the heart of the United Kingdom, where his fascination with motorcycles emerged during his youth. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of engines and the excitement of the open road, Guy Willison developed an early curiosity for how machines worked. He was deeply inspired by the golden era of British motorcycles, a time when brands like Triumph Motorcycles, Norton Motorcycles, and Royal Enfield defined the culture of freedom and innovation.
Unlike many who simply admired bikes, Guy Willison wanted to understand them — to build, modify, and perfect them. This drive led him to spend countless hours in local garages, learning from older mechanics and experimenting with engines. By the time most of his peers were learning to drive cars, Guy Willison was already knee-deep in oil, metal, and dreams of building his own motorcycles. This hands-on experience laid the foundation for his future success and gave him a rare understanding of both the mechanical and artistic sides of motorbike design.
Journey into Motorcycle Design
Guy Willison’s journey into professional motorcycle design wasn’t born from formal training but from passion, persistence, and self-taught skill. His approach to motorcycle engineering and customization evolved through years of trial, error, and innovation. Starting with vintage motorbike restoration, Guy learned how every bolt, wire, and gear contributed to the performance and personality of a bike. His fascination with restoring old motorcycles soon turned into a desire to create new designs that carried the soul of the classics but performed like modern machines.
As his skills grew, Guy Willison began taking on custom projects that pushed the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship. His reputation as a bespoke bike builder spread rapidly within the British motorbike enthusiast community. He wasn’t just restoring motorcycles — he was reinventing them. Each of his builds became a reflection of his values: elegance, performance, and authenticity. This philosophy would later form the cornerstone of his brand, 5Four Motorcycles.
The Birth of 5Four Motorcycles
5Four Motorcycles, founded by Guy Willison, represents the pinnacle of handcrafted motorcycle design in the UK. The brand’s name itself carries symbolic meaning — representing the perfect balance between engineering and artistry. With 5Four Motorcycles, Guy Willison created a platform to showcase what bespoke craftsmanship could achieve when guided by passion and precision. His builds are not mass-produced machines but limited-edition masterpieces that tell a story of dedication and design excellence.
Through 5Four Motorcycles, Guy Willison redefined what it means to own a motorcycle. Each creation is unique, blending classic lines with modern engineering. His designs often feature hand-built frames, custom café racer elements, and finishes that reflect his meticulous attention to detail. Whether working on a restoration project or a new concept bike, Guy ensures that every nut, weld, and paint stroke meets his exacting standards.
Guy Willison: The Genius Behind 5Four Motorcycles
Collaboration with Henry Cole
A major turning point in Guy Willison’s career was his collaboration with television presenter Henry Cole, a partnership that has become legendary in the motorcycle world. The chemistry between Guy Willison and Henry Cole brought authenticity and humor to British television, making motorcycle culture more accessible and entertaining to a broad audience.
Their teamwork first captured public attention through shows like The Motorbike Show and Shed and Buried, both aired on ITV4 and the BBC network. On-screen, Guy Willison’s calm expertise perfectly balanced Henry Cole’s energetic personality. Together, they celebrated everything that makes motorcycling special — from restoration craftsmanship to the freedom of the open road. Their shared passion for motorcycles helped inspire a new generation of riders and builders across the United Kingdom.
The Motorbike Show: Guy Willison on Screen
The Motorbike Show became the stage where Guy Willison showcased his talents to the world. As part of The Motorbike Show cast, he demonstrated the art of custom motorcycle design with precision and passion. Whether restoring a vintage Triumph or designing a café racer, Guy’s calm presence and deep knowledge captivated viewers. The show not only highlighted his technical skills but also revealed his character — humble, skilled, and utterly devoted to the craft.
Through this platform, Guy Willison became one of the most recognizable motorcycle TV personalities in Britain. The program also introduced audiences to his workshop, where the smell of metal, oil, and creativity came together to produce some of the most beautiful hand-built motorcycles on television. His role in Shed and Buried further emphasized his love for uncovering hidden treasures, restoring forgotten machines, and breathing new life into them.
The Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition
One of Guy Willison’s most celebrated achievements is the Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition, created in collaboration with Honda UK. This limited-edition masterpiece combined Honda’s reliable engineering with Guy Willison’s unmistakable craftsmanship. Each model was hand-finished in his workshop, featuring custom paintwork, leather seats, and a timeless design that paid homage to the café racer era.
The Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition quickly became a collector’s dream. Its creation marked a significant milestone in modern retro bikes, blending the soul of a classic with the performance of contemporary technology. This project cemented Guy Willison’s reputation as not just a craftsman but also a visionary capable of bridging the past and future of motorcycling.
Craftsmanship and Design Philosophy
Guy Willison’s design philosophy revolves around three core principles — authenticity, functionality, and beauty. He believes that every motorcycle should tell a story, and that story begins with the hands that build it. His work embodies the spirit of British craftsmanship, combining the precision of modern engineering with the soul of vintage design.
In the Guy Willison workshop, every project is treated as a unique creation. He uses traditional methods — hand shaping, polishing, and welding — but applies them with modern precision tools. This fusion results in bikes that feel timeless yet relevant. For Guy Willison, motorcycle design is not about excess or spectacle; it’s about balance, proportion, and emotional connection. Each of his custom café racers reflects this philosophy — a harmony of power and personality.
Notable Custom Builds and Projects
Throughout his career, Guy Willison has produced numerous remarkable builds that stand as icons of British bespoke motorcycle design. From vintage Triumph restorations to his custom Royal Enfield and Norton projects, his portfolio showcases both diversity and mastery. Every 5Four Motorcycles creation is a testament to his ability to capture nostalgia while embracing innovation.
Among his most admired works are hand-built café racers that fuse minimalism with performance. These machines often feature refined metalwork, subtle color palettes, and ergonomics that favor both style and control. Many of his custom builds have been featured on The Motorbike Show and in motorcycle exhibitions across the UK, where enthusiasts praise their balance between form and function.
Guy Willison’s Impact on the British Motorcycling Scene
Guy Willison’s influence extends beyond his workshop. He has revitalized British bike culture by reminding people of the value of hand-built motorcycles and personal connection to craftsmanship. In an era dominated by mass production, Guy stands as a symbol of authenticity — proof that true artistry still thrives in the world of engineering.
His presence on television has inspired countless viewers to explore the joy of motorcycle restoration and design. Many new builders cite Guy Willison as an inspiration for pursuing careers in bespoke motorcycle building. Through his example, the British motorcycling scene has regained a sense of identity rooted in heritage, skill, and passion.
Guy Willison’s Philosophy on Motorcycling
For Guy Willison, motorcycles are more than machines; they are companions in the pursuit of freedom. His philosophy centers on emotional connection — that a bike should make its rider feel alive every time the engine starts. He believes that the best motorcycles combine personality with performance, embodying both history and innovation.
Guy’s approach also reflects humility and gratitude. He often emphasizes that craftsmanship is a lifelong learning process, and that every restoration project or design challenge is an opportunity to grow. This perspective has earned him respect from fans, peers, and industry leaders alike.
Recognition and Media Presence
Over the years, Guy Willison has earned recognition from both the motorcycle community and the broader media. His appearances on The Motorbike Show, Shed and Buried, and related programs like Find It, Fix It, Flog It have made him a household name among enthusiasts. His work has been featured by major outlets across the UK, celebrating his contribution to motorcycle artistry and innovation.
Whether appearing at trade shows, giving interviews, or mentoring young designers, Guy Willison continues to represent the very best of British engineering and creativity. His fans admire not only his bikes but his integrity and devotion to the craft.
Guy Willison’s Legacy and Future Projects
The legacy of Guy Willison is one of passion, authenticity, and timeless design. With 5Four Motorcycles continuing to evolve, his influence on the next generation of builders is undeniable. He remains actively involved in new projects, collaborations, and television appearances that celebrate the artistry of two-wheel engineering.
Looking forward, Guy Willison’s focus remains on preserving the human touch in a world of automated production. His dream is to continue inspiring riders and craftsmen to pursue their passion with honesty and creativity — ensuring that the story of handcrafted motorcycles continues to thrive.
Interesting Facts About Guy Willison
- Guy Willison built his first custom motorcycle entirely by hand using second-hand parts.
- He is known for designing bikes that combine traditional café racer aesthetics with modern reliability.
- Guy Willison’s favorite builds often feature minimalistic styling and bold paint schemes that reflect his personality.
- Despite his fame, Guy continues to work personally on every project in the 5Four Motorcycles workshop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Guy Willison?
Guy Willison is a British motorcycle designer, builder, and TV personality known for his work on The Motorbike Show and for founding 5Four Motorcycles.
What is 5Four Motorcycles?
5Four Motorcycles is Guy Willison’s custom motorcycle brand that creates limited-edition, hand-built motorcycles blending vintage aesthetics with modern performance.
How did Guy Willison start working with Henry Cole?
Guy Willison and Henry Cole met through their shared passion for motorcycles and began collaborating on TV projects such as The Motorbike Show and Shed and Buried.
What is the Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition?
The Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition is a limited-edition motorcycle designed by Guy Willison in collaboration with Honda UK, combining classic café racer styling with advanced engineering.
Where can I see Guy Willison’s custom bikes?
Guy Willison’s bikes can be viewed through 5Four Motorcycles, on episodes of The Motorbike Show, and at various motorcycle exhibitions across the UK.
Summary
Guy Willison’s story is one of dedication, artistry, and unshakable passion for motorcycles. From the early days of tinkering with engines to becoming a celebrated figure on British television, his journey embodies the spirit of craftsmanship. Through 5Four Motorcycles, The Motorbike Show, and collaborations like the Honda CB1100 RS 5Four Edition, Guy Willison has shown that true artistry never fades — it evolves, adapts, and inspires.
In every sense, Guy Willison remains an icon of modern British motorcycling — a man whose love for motorcycles continues to shape the road ahead.