Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Handcrafted Motorcycle Fuel Tanks & Accessories Since 1972
Established in 1972, Tab Classics continues a legacy of crafting handcrafted alloy motorcycle fuel tanks, oil tanks, and accessories using traditional metalworking techniques. Our dedication to preserving the artistry of tank-making began with Terry Baker, whose expertise in gas welding and English Wheel craftsmanship set the foundation for our unique approach. Each product is meticulously shaped by hand, ensuring no two tanks are identical, reflecting our philosophy that 'it's more about art than engineering'.Our team, including Richard and Aline Phelps, carries forward Terry's vision while embracing modern customer needs. With decades of combined experience, we specialise in creating bespoke solutions for classic motorcycles, from Norton and Triumph to Honda K4 frames. Our workshop in West Wales remains committed to quality, individuality, and the timeless methods that have defined our craft for over 50 years.
Services
Fuel Tanks
Oil Tanks
Seats
Accessories
Custom Orders
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of heritage in handcrafted motorcycle tank production.
- Each tank is individually handmade, ensuring unique, artistic results.
- Our team preserves traditional techniques like gas welding and English Wheel shaping.
- We specialise in bespoke solutions for over 20 classic motorcycle brands.
- Our workshop continues Terry Baker's legacy of engineering artistry.
Services
Fuel Tanks
Handcrafted alloy fuel tanks tailored to specific classic motorcycle models. Each tank is shaped using traditional gas welding and English Wheel techniques, ensuring unique, artistic designs. Our process combines heritage methods with modern precision to deliver lightweight, durable solutions that enhance a bike's aesthetic and performance.
Oil Tanks
Custom-made oil tanks crafted from aluminium sheet using time-honoured metalworking methods. Designed to complement our fuel tanks, these products maintain the same artistic integrity and functional excellence. Each piece is shaped by hand to fit specific bike models, preserving the organic, artisanal quality of Terry Baker's original designs.
Seats
Handmade cowls and seats that complete the cafe racer aesthetic of classic motorcycles. Constructed with attention to detail, these seats blend comfort and style while matching the handcrafted quality of our fuel tanks. Available in various designs to suit Triumph, Norton, and Honda models.
Accessories
Comprehensive range of mudguards, tank straps, filler caps, and other components to enhance classic bikes. All accessories are crafted using traditional techniques, ensuring they complement our handcrafted tanks. Designed for both functionality and aesthetic harmony with vintage motorcycle styles.
Custom Orders
Tailored fabrication services for unique motorcycle projects, including one-off fuel tanks and specialised components. Our team works closely with clients to translate their vision into handcrafted reality, maintaining the same meticulous attention to detail and traditional craftsmanship that defines our standard product range.
People
Richard Phelps
Co-Owner & Workshop Manager
With a background in metal fabrication and customer service, Richard oversees tank assembly, polishing, and customer communication. He learned tank-making directly from Terry Baker, ensuring traditional techniques are preserved while meeting modern customer expectations.
Aline Phelps
Co-Owner & Metalworker
Aline specialises in shaping aluminium sheets into tanks using hammers, dollies, and the English Wheel. She inherited her skills from her father, Terry Baker, and plays a key role in maintaining the workshop's traditional methods and artistic standards.
Tom Smyth
Fabricator/Welder
A skilled gas welder and motorsport enthusiast, Tom joined Tab Classics in 2023. He is training in all workshop processes, bringing fresh energy to preserving classic metalworking techniques while contributing to the team's craftsmanship.
Terry Baker
Founder
Terry established the business in 1972 after designing lightweight racing fuel tanks. A master craftsman, he pioneered traditional techniques like gas welding aluminium and using the English Wheel, creating over 20,000 tanks and inspiring generations of tank-makers.
Mark Purslow
Former Fabricator/Welder
A highly skilled gas welder, Mark joined Tab Classics in 2013 and became indispensable to the team. A passionate racer, he tragically passed away in 2022 while competing at the Isle of Man TT, leaving a lasting legacy in the workshop.
Questions
How are TAB II Classics fuel tanks made?
Our tanks are handcrafted from aluminium sheets using traditional techniques like gas welding and English Wheel shaping. Each tank takes up to 30 hours to create, ensuring unique, artisanal quality.
Can I order a custom fuel tank for my specific motorcycle model?
Yes, we specialise in bespoke tanks tailored to individual bikes. Contact us with your model details, and our team will create a design that complements your motorcycle's specifications.
Do you ship products internationally?
Yes, we offer international shipping. Prices include UK delivery, but we can provide shipping quotes for global orders upon request.
What motorcycle brands do you cater to?
We create tanks for over 20 classic brands, including Norton, Triumph, Ducati, Honda, and Moto Guzzi. Our workshop also accommodates rare and custom models.
Are TAB II Classics products easy to install?
Yes, our tanks are designed for straightforward fitting while maintaining a perfect match to specific bike frames. We provide guidance to ensure hassle-free installation.
What is the history behind TAB II Classics?
Founded in 1972 by Terry Baker, we've preserved traditional tank-making methods for over 50 years. The business is now run by Terry's daughter Aline and her husband Richard Phelps.
