Build or Bust introduces Motors TV to the realms of mechanical reality TV!

It features the charismatic figure of Russell Mitchell, a former veterinary surgeon who immigrated to the USA to pursue a career as a model. A lover of motorbikes since his youth, today he is the boss of Exile Cycles, a manufacturer which produces around 20 top-of-the-range ‘choppers’ each year, sometimes selling for as much as $100,000.

In Build or Bust, the tattooed Bad Boy will put apprentice motorbike constructors to the test.

The challenge is simple; spend one month at Exile Cycles, the black sheep of the motorbike industry, and completely design and manufacture a new motorbike from A to Z.

If the finished product meets with the approval of the boss, the apprentice leaves riding it, if not they leave on foot!

The high standards of the boss are somewhat draconian however and the apprentice’s challenge is not made any easier by the slightly crazy, very tetchy band of Exile Cycles employees. Mistakes are numerous but often only pointed out to the unfortunate candidates at the end of the project.

“Too many programmes in this area feature professional mechanics and tend to be all the same” said Motors TV’s Head of Programming and Acquisitions Frédéric Viger. “One of the best things about Build or Bust is to see inexperienced contestants from a wide background, including physical trainers, blacksmiths and even a previous contestant from American Idol, trying to complete this challenge. Faced with the ironic personality of Russell Mitchell, they need to be very dedicated to successfully complete their challenge. The prize for those who succeed is really worth it.”

First season of Build or Bust – Every Wednesday at 7.05pm from 14 October