Hennepin Arts presents

In the 1984 cult classic Purple Rain, Prince didn't just steal the spotlight-he rode into cinematic history on a custom Honda CM400A Hondamatic, a bike that became as iconic as the artist himself. Originally designed for ease and style, the CM400A featured a 395cc twin-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and a low-slung frame, making it a perfect match for the film's rebellious energy. But it was the custom touches that transformed it into a symbol of artistry and freedom: a WindKutter fairing, six-bend pullback handlebars, a trident sissy bar, and a king-and-queen upholstered seat, all wrapped in a shimmering deep purple paint job with chrome and pinstriped accents.

This replica was hand-built just down the street from Lake Minnetonka, a location forever etched in Purple Rain lore. Every detail- from the engine styling to the stitched leather seat- was recreated with precision and reverence. To ensure authenticity, I collaborated with Tommy Summers, the original builder of Prince's motorcycle, to match the exact specifications used in the film. This tribute joins a portfolio of custom Purple Rain builds I've created for First Avenue, Dave Chappelle, Katt Williams, Richard Rawlings, and the New Ulm Music Hall of Fame- each one a celebration of legacy, design, and the power of storytelling through machines.

Greetings Purple Family!

My name is Benjamin Menth, a lifelong Prince devotee and motorcycle builder with a passion for honoring legends through craftsmanship. Years ago, while renting space at First Avenue—the very venue where Prince made history—I found myself surrounded by creativity, music, and unforgettable personalities, including Dave Chappelle. It was in that electric atmosphere that the idea struck me: What if I could recreate the legendary Purple Rain motorcycle?

To do it right, I reached out to the one man who knew every detail—Tommy Summers, the original builder of Prince’s iconic ride. With his guidance, I began the journey of rebuilding a piece of cinematic and musical history. Throughout the process, I kept Dave Chappelle updated, sharing each milestone as the bike came to life. Then, in a moment that shook the world, Prince passed away—the very same week I completed the motorcycle. As if guided by fate, my phone rang. It was Dave. He asked, “Did you finish it?” And just like that, I was on my way to deliver the bike to his home in Ohio.

On my drive back, I received another call—from my friends at First Avenue. They wanted the motorcycle too. I told them it had just been delivered, but promised I’d build them another. “It’ll take a year,” I said. And I meant it. What you see before you now is the final Purple Rain replica I will ever build. My hope is that it finds a permanent home where fans can gather, reflect, and celebrate the legacy of Prince.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Let’s keep the purple flame burning.

– Benjamin Menth

Note: this motorcycle is for sale. Contact Ben Menth.

Dave Rusan's Cloud Guitar

“I spent 10 hours a day for a month making that guitar… If it didn’t work out, it could have been a white Strat in Purple Rain,” Prince’s Cloud guitar builder Dave Rusan on how he made the iconic instrument – and the legal battles over his replicas.

READ MORE: Guitar World Premiere Guitar