# DIY Sci-Fi Bikes The Custom Stormtrooper Cruiser Brands a Two-Wheeler in Star Wars Motifs By Jason Soy | Published 2011-08-18 | Autos Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/custom-stormtrooper-cruiser References: [nerdapproved](http://nerdapproved.com/approved-products/custom-stormtrooper-bicycle/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:) & [starwarsblog.starwars](http://starwarsblog.starwars.com/index.php/2011/08/11/custom-stormtrooper-cruiser/) If you're a Stormtrooper and can't get your hands on one of the Empire's battle ships, I guess this custom Stormtrooper Cruiser will have to suffice. Crafted by the hardcore and talented Star Wars fan Dee Troy, the custom Stormtrooper Cruiser is a [bicycle](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/project-one) which has been outfitted with all the iconic Stormtrooper motifs, from their gas mask-like helmet to their [all white plated armor](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/star-wars-x-columbia-collection). My favorite aspect of the custom Stormtrooper Cruiser is probably its frame, which features impeccable detailing that would not look out of place on the actual set of Star Wars. **Implications** - Consumers enjoy customizing their items with pop culture references because they associate expressing their fan appreciation for a particular franchise with expressing a unique aspect of their identity. Corporations may consider offering consumers customization services as a way to differ their products from their competitors'. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.7/10 - Popularity: 89% | Activity: 73% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Custom Pop Culture Bikes:** Offering pop culture customization options for bikes is a way for companies to differentiate their products and appeal to fans' desire for unique self-expression. - **Detailed Pop Culture Design:** Consumers appreciate products with impeccable detailing that accurately depict their favorite pop culture franchises. - **Fan-made Pop Culture Merchandise:** The popularity of fan-made pop culture merchandise highlights a desire for unique and personalized items beyond what mainstream companies offer. ### Where This Applies - **Bicycle Industry:** Bicycle companies can consider offering customization services for pop culture enthusiasts to differentiate their products from competitors and appeal to fans' desire for unique self-expression. - **Pop Culture Merchandise Industry:** The popularity of fan-made pop culture merchandise reflects a niche market for unique and personalized items beyond what mainstream companies offer, creating an opportunity for smaller businesses to flourish. - **Entertainment Industry:** Collaborating with merchandise companies to offer licensed pop culture customization options can expand the reach of entertainment franchises and offer fans a unique way to express their fandom. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Chrome-Colored Action Figures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-toys-1.md) - [Highly Detailed Sci-Fi Costumes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stormtrooper-kit.md) - [Sci-Fi-Themed Replica Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clone-trooper-phase-ii.md) - [Sci-Fi-Themed Cars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/volkswagen-2.md) - [Sci-Fi-Inspired Superbikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/akiraducati-superbike.md) - [Sci-Fi Franchise-Inspired Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/star-wars-collection-2.md) - [AI-Generated Motorbike Helmets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/coldstar-art.md) - [Aircraft-Inspired Motorcycles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fabman-creations.md) - [Sci-Fi Electric Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/volkswagen-van.md)