The concept for 'Build or Bust' was that host and custom motorcycle builder Russell Mitchell took in a member of the public who thought it would be easy to build a bike "just like the guys on TV." Russell gave the guy access to all the tools and parts necessary to make a custom motorcycle, allowing the contestant one month to assemble it. If at the end of that time the contestant built a bike that met Russell's standards, they get to keep it. If they didn't, they lost the motorcycle.
Episode guide
Season 1: 2005
Season 1 Episode 1: Fat Fingers A short-fused jock attempts to build a bike and inject his own ideas only to discover his head is not as big as his forearms. Season 1 Episode 2: The Snake Sweet-talking, overly confident Chad slithers his way into the shop. Season 1 Episode 3: The Sage Professional blacksmith Joe brings an old world discipline and aesthetic to the art of bike building. Season 1 Episode 4: Girls Can Build, Too Female mechanic Alex is all passion and sass. Season 1 Episode 5: Bicycle By Day, Chopper By Night - Part 1 Alan converts bicycles into motor bikes in his spare time; Jesse Rooke joins the crew at Exile Cycles. Season 1 Episode 6: Bicycle By Day, Chopper By Night - Part 2 Tensions rise as the guys at Exile Cycles question Jesse Rooke's motives. Season 1 Episode 7: The Real Ron Army vet Ron reminisces over life as he fights a new battle, a costume chopper. Season 1 Episode 8: The William Wall Show Rough rider Bill Wall is pure passion and determination as he sets forth on the ultimate lone journey, building a custom bike from the ground up. Season 1 Episode 9: Johnny Comes Marchin' Home Exile bad boy Johnny returns as a master builder. Young Texan Adam brings a lot of confidence and attitude. Season 1 Episode 10: The Accident Seattle custom woodworker Chris attempts to transfer his knowledge of building with wood to building with metal. Season 1 Episode 11: The Diva Bike enthusiast and TV personality Kerry Casem attempts to build a custom chopper.
Season 2: 2006
Season 2 Episode 1: The Detroit Designer JC builds a bike. Season 2 Episode 2: Delivery Man by Day, Bike Builder by Night Robb Harbison builds the bike of his dreams. Season 2 Episode 3: The Farmhand Satya, a hardworking farm worker tries to win a bike in 30 days. Season 2 Episode 4: Massachusetts Man Jason Roche. Season 2 Episode 5: Simply 'Mr. Finner' Season 2 Episode 6: Canada Represents Season 2 Episode 7: So-Cal Rebel Bike builder Johnathan Smith. Season 2 Episode 8: Kick Start John Hot rod builder John Schiess. Season 2 Episode 9: Mini Bike Builder Justin Taylor. Season 2 Episode 10: Jim the Survivor Jim Silba. Season 2 Episode 11: Brian the Engineer Tragedy threatens the build. Season 2 Episode 12: EPISODE: 12 Brian pushes forward in his build though still mourning the passing of his friend.
