Wreckless H4MM4 Ducati Speedway Motorcycle

Mention Ducati and the image that comes to mind is a sleek blur of red on two wheels and the whine of twin-cylinder motors and dry clutches. Speedway racing is the exact opposite — strange-looking frames packing small-displacement motors on dirt ovals while sliding sideways most of the time. But UK-based Wreckless Motorcycles thought the combination of Italy and homebrew ingenuity would make for an interesting project, and that's how their H4MM4 Ducati-engined speedway bike came into being. The discovery of an early-70s 450cc Desmo Ducati single-cylinder kicked the whole project off. A Jawa speedway frame from the same era was modified to fit the motor, and a host of custom parts adorn the bike. In tribute to Wreckless founder Rick Geall's favorite F1 driver Louis Hamilton, the bike is painted in Mercedes F1 team colors and logos. As strange as speedway bikes might look, this passion project is one of the most interesting customs you'll find.

Metalbike Garage Triumph Speed Triple Motorcycle

Triumph's Speed Triple is a beautiful, high-performing naked streetfighter in stock trim. But the artists at Metalbike Garage of Collegno, Italy, have turned it into a rolling masterpiece with their hand-shaped aluminum bodywork. Founded by Simone Lecca after leaving Bertone, Metalbike Garage specializes custom fairings made in the grand tradition of Italian coachbuilders. Starting with a 2000 Speed Triple, Lecca and his team tore the bike down to its tube frame before penning a design that would both look good and preserve the bike's performance. All the pieces are made from only two sheets of aluminum and have a variety of compound curves that look almost impossible. Not just a design exercise, the forks were replaced with USD units and an Öhlins monoshock, with a custom stainless exhaust that completes the look. Metalbike Garage has made a custom bike that is equal parts beauty and beast with this custom Triumph.

Zero x Huge Design SM Custom Motorcycle

Huge Design of San Francisco, CA specializes in industrial design and is no stranger to motorcycles. So when electric motorcycle manufacturer Zero asked them to try their hand at customizing one of their bikes, Huge Design was all-in. Zero sent Huge Design their entry-level model, the FXS. Working with Zero's CAD files, Huge Design was able to design the bike almost entirely on computers after work — a far cry from the usual motorcycle customization in the garage with sheet metal, sparks, and lots of tools. Tire manufacturer Shinko was looking for a bike to wear their tires for The One Moto Show in Portland, and with the partnership now including three firms, the project was a go. The clean lines of the bodywork are machined from ABS thermoplastic and compliment the modern, all-electric internals perfectly.

Diamond Atelier Groot BMW R65 Motorcycle

German motorcycle design shop Diamond Atelier made their reputation building customized versions of classic air-cooled BMWs. Continuing in that successful vein, Diamond Atelier has released their third series production model, the Groot. Diamond Atelier's second series model, the Mark II, was named after Tony Stark's Iron Man suit, and the BMW R65-based Groot continues that trend. Taking advantage of the R65's shorter wheelbase, the Groot is Diamond Atelier's vision of an urban scrambler. Modern 53mm USD forks replace the original units and carry dual six-piston calipers gripping wave rotors mounted to BMW snowflake rims. Knobby Continental Twinduro TKC80 tires provide the grip for dirt trails or urban riding, and a fully refurbished frame and motor ensure this bike will be running for years to come. Two tank styles are available in two different paint schemes — one Groot-inspired and the other a classic two-tone. The Groot is available for order now.

Droog Moto Urban Fighter Kawasaki Z1000 Motorcycle

Droog Moto has added another post-apocalyptic transport to its arsenal with its latest build, the Urban Fighter. The Urban Fighter is Droog's biggest bike yet, but the Kawasaki Z1000 underneath means it's far nicer to ride than its looks suggest. Droog's trademark industrial vision is readily apparent in the custom fuel cell, front fairing, and fenders, sporting an angular design in raw steel. All unnecessary bodywork and tabs have been removed and the wiring has been reduced and tucked away. The rear subframe has been replaced with a custom piece that carries a leather skateboard seat and low-profile LED brake light. Aluminum wheel inserts add to the solid heavy equipment look that belies the flickability of the underlying chassis. If surviving the collapse of society is what you're after, Droog Moto's creations have style in spades.

Viba Jane Honda Monkey Motorcycle

Honda's classic Z series, also known as the Monkey, is all-new for the 2019 model year. With disc brakes, inverted forks, and full rear suspension, the Monkey is small but is fully equipped and street-legal. French custom shop Viba used the new Monkey as the basis for its Jane Honda custom, featuring 3D-printed parts. The front fascia doubles as a rack and fender, while the centerpiece of the bike is the custom tank — with both pieces 3D-printed in aluminum. The rest of the bike retains the best of Honda's vintage styling, making this tiny city bike a modern classic.

Harley-Davidson Electric Bike Concepts

Harley-Davidson's LiveWire will debut this year as the company's first electric motorcycle, ditching the iconic v-twin for batteries and brushless DC motors. While the LiveWire is a big step towards the future for the company, that's not the only all-electric offering Harley has planned. Harley showed off two other electric bikes that are far outside the company's heavyweight history — a minimalist city/trail concept and an even smaller scooter. The trail bike features front and rear suspension, knobby tires, hydraulic disc brakes, and plenty of ground clearance. The design looks excellent, with a healthy dose of vintage dirt bike and clean, modern packaging. The scooter concept has a flat bench seat with skateboard footrests — a nice touch, but doubtful for a production model. While both models are concepts, they point the way towards Harley-Davidson's future, combining heritage with forward-thinking. Let's hope we see both of these bikes on the street soon.

Steve McQueen's 1971 Husqvarna 250 Cross Motorcycle

Motorcross racing came to the US in 1966 when 250cc World Motocross Champion Torsten Hallman flew in from Sweden and dominated with his Husqvarna 250 Cross. Seeing how effortlessly Hallman won, rider Malcolm Smith traded his Greeves for Husqvarna, appearing with the bike in On Any Sunday and helping popularize motocross in America. Steve McQueen was also featured in the documentary, and Smith's Husky would lead to the Hollywood icon keeping a stable of Husqvarnas wherever he went. McQueen bought this 250 Cross new in 1971 through his company Solar Productions, and the original sale documents are included with the bike. McQueen's 250 Cross has traded hands several times over the years and has had a recent restoration. The bike starts, runs, and is ready to ride for years to come — which is exactly what the original owner would've wanted.

TMC Dumont Motorcycle

Motorcycles get some of the most outrageous mods, but there's never been anything quite as wild as Taso Marques' Dumont. A retired F1 and Indycar driver, Marques knows a few things about pushing the envelope and has been designing custom cars and motorcycles since leaving racing. The inspiration for the Dumont was disbelief, and that definitely comes across in the design. With its hubless wheels and 300 horsepower Rolls-Royce Continental aircraft motor, the Dumont is a fully-functional piece of rolling art. The fully-functional bike looks like a work of science fiction, seeming to float on its gleaming chrome 36-inch wheels. Construction took seven months in Marques' shop in Brazil, and the bike is full of unique engineering solutions — making this one of the most impressive custom bikes ever built.

BMW R nineT Aurora Concept Motorcycle

BMW's R nineT was made to not only be a great standard motorcycle, but also a blank canvas for designers and enthusiasts. While the R nineT has been transformed into everything from modern cafe racers to vintage look scramblers, designer Mehmet Doruk Erdem takes the bike into totally new territory with his Aurora concept. Taking cues from drag and salt flat bikes, Erdem's take on the R nineT is an aggressively-styled low-slung monster for the street. Commissioned by Istanbul's GB Motobike, we can't wait to see Erdem's design in three dimensions.

K-Speed Honda Super Cub Motorcycle

Honda launched the latest version of their beloved Super Cub with a one-off custom by
Thai shop K-Speed. K-Speed is back with an even better Super Cub in collaboration with Storm Aeropart, who created all-new plastics to cover the frame and forks. The Super Cub rides on 17-inch carbon fiber solid-disc wheels shod with vintage Firestone rubber and a lowered stance thanks to a stretched swingarm and new shocks. A massive improvement to the Cub's braking capabilities comes via front and rear disc brakes versus the original drums and a new exhaust gives the 109cc single lunger a bit more bark. New bars, footpegs, switchgear, and speedometer round out the build. K-Speed proves that bikes don't have to be big to turn heads, and the Super Cub is more than just a small runabout.

BSTN x Jordan Ducati 916 Concord Motorcycle

The Jordan XI was one of the most iconic shoes of the '90s. The Ducati 916, one of the most iconic motorcycles. Created in collaboration with German workshop Impuls to celebrate the reissue of the XI, this custom bike gives the 916 a Jordan Brand makeover. The bike's name, some of MJ's accomplishments, and Jay-Z's "back like 45" lyric are laser-engraved on the brake discs and wheels, while clear rubber handlebars recall the shoe's icy outsole, and the custom seat mimics the shoe's upper. Appropriately, it's finished in a gloss black and white livery with Jumpman, "45", and BSTN graphics.

Photos: Stefan Hobmaier / BSTN

H Garage Honda Valkyrie Streetfighter

Scott Halbleib worked as a graphic designer for 15 years before quitting his job to pursue his first love — custom motorcycles. The custom creations that come out of his Louisville, Kentucky-based H Garage have won acclaim from as far away as the UK and Australia, and his latest piece continues the trend. Starting with a heavyweight 2014 Honda Valkyrie, Scott stripped the bike down to its bare bones. The original fuel cell was kept, with a new tank cover modeled in clay and paper before being finalized in steel. The seat and tail section were replaced with custom parts and vertical LED headlights that sit between the forks give the build an aggressive face. The prominent radiator surrounds were made with an eye to the overall design while incorporating new stainless steel tubing. With this build, Scott has taken the Valkyrie from being a modern cruiser to an impressive, futuristic naked streetfighter.

Photos: Craig Schneider / H Garage

Diamond Atelier Mark II Evo Motorcycle

Diamond Atelier's BMW R80RT-based Mark II made the custom shop's reputation as a builder of quality cafe racer restomods. Not content with resting on their laurels, Diamond Atelier has introduced the next evolution of the Mark II, the Mark II EVO. Starting with the more advanced R100R, the Mark II EVO has a host of improvements over the previous version. A completely rebuilt 1000cc boxer puts down 70 horsepower through a multilink Paralevel driveshaft, solving the torque jacking present on the R80T. A redesigned rear subframe is hidden in the seat for a cleaner appearance, and two styles of tank are available — the original Mark II tank and a similar but more angular model. Along with inverted front forks, minimal wiring, and a host of options, the Mark II EVO is the perfect blend of modern performance and retro looks.

Zero DS Motocycle

Zero has been making electric motorcycles since 2006, making them one of the original EV manufacturers in the industry. With a lineup that street, racing, supermoto, and dual-sport bikes, Zero has something for every rider. Their recently upgraded DS dual-sport model adds a host of improvements to an already solid offering, making the bike a legitimate choice versus the gasoline-powered models from other manufacturers. Rather than reinvent the wheel, Zero sticks with proven design and tech, with Showa inverted front forks and rear shocks, J-Juan calipers, and Bosch Gen 9 ABS. The heart of the DS is its battery and electric motor, with up to 60 horsepower and 200 miles of range on tap depending on options. A well-designed bike with great specs and an affordable price means that electric motorcycles are more than just a novelty.

Nera 3D-Printed Electric Motorcycle

Electric vehicles are no longer a thing of the future, and manufacturing processes are catching up to propulsion technology. Composite materials like carbon fiber can be found in many mass-produced cars, but construction is still based on the traditional assembly line. German 3D printing company BigRep has unveiled the Nera, an electric motorcycle that is completely — you guessed it — 3D-printed. Developed by BigRep's internal NOWlab, every part of the Nera, from the frame to the tubeless tires, is printed, minus only the electric drivetrain. Using fused filament fabrication, the Nera is designed to make the best use of the tech instead of relying on traditional motorcycle design. 3D-printed, airless tires, electric powertrain — the Nera is a harbinger of the future of transportation.

2019 BMW S1000 RR

Lighter, faster, stronger — the third generation of BMW Motorrad's liter bike, the S 1000 RR, promises to be the best yet. BMW aimed to best the previous generation's performance by a second, and with an all-new engine and suspension, it looks like they've reached their goal. The new 999cc inline-four gains eight horsepower, pushing output to 207, with a smoother torque curve throughout the rev range thanks to BMW's ShiftCam variable valve tech. A brand new suspension with revised geometry increases the load-bearing capability of the engine that also allows for a lighter frame and components, helping the S 1000 RR drop 25 pounds of overall weight. Electronic aids like ABS, traction control, and wheelie control have been revised to help make the S 1000 RR one of the most approachable superbikes on the market. Expect the S 1000 RR to make it to market in time for the 2019 riding season.

Arc Vector Electric Motorcycle

UK-based Arc released their first production motorcycle to the public at the EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan, Italy, and brought game-changing technology to the world of two wheels. Billed as a "neo-cafe racer", Arc's Vector is a fully-electric motorcycle with very impressive specs. The carbon fiber flyer boasts 120 miles of range, a 0-60 time of 2.9 seconds, and a top speed of 125 MPH, so it has the performance numbers, but it's Arc's Human Machine Interface that looks to the future of riding. The Vector has no screens or gauges. The proprietary Zenith helmet contains a fighter jet-inspired HUD, giving a readout of everything from telemetry readings like speed and range to navigation. Couple that with the Origin armored gear with haptic feedback and the Vector melds man and machine together in one complete package.

Ronin x Uncrate 47 Motorcycle

Designed by Uncrate and built by Ronin, our collaboration includes two identical blacked-out motorcycles. Offering a 160 MPH top speed and 130 rear-wheel HP, the limited Uncrate versions receive a satin black airbox cover and black paint on the front and rear main springs, front fork links, and subframe. Smoke gray was used to replace the taillight lens, the cast rearsets replaced with black anodized billet parts from vintage racers, the muffler endcaps repainted in black cerakote, and the entire exhaust wrapped with black header tape. As a finishing touch, the seat was reupholstered in black leather by Clint Wilkinson, giving this unique, limited bike a menacing look worthy of its fierce namesake. Each bike weighs in at 425 lbs. One of the two identical bikes is still available for purchase.

As seen in Uncrate Issue 04.

Read more about the collaboration.

Inquire directly with Uncrate about purchasing this vehicle.

Zero FXS Electric Motorcycle

Zero is no newcomer to electric motorcycles, and their FXS dual-sport shows that experience is an important part of a good product. Instead of reinventing the wheel, the FXS is a solid bike with an electric heart. The FXS has an improved front suspension thanks to Showa forks and stopping power by J.Juan calipers. Two battery options are available, the 3.6 kWh system that can be swapped in for a fresh charge, and a 7.2 kWh battery that can do up to 100 miles of city driving. Both batteries power a 46 horsepower motor with 76 lb-ft of torque, all available instantly at the flick of a throttle. A smartphone app allows you to customize a number of motor parameters and usage statistics. All this is packed into a bike that weighs just under 300 pounds, making the FXS a real performer and not just basic transportation.

Ural Air Motorcycle

Ural makes one motorcycle, and they do it very well. Reverse-engineered from the BMW R71 in the early 1940s for the Russian Army during WWII, Ural has been refining the basic design for over 70 years. The latest special edition of Ural's classic sidecar bike is the Air that comes with a DJI Spark drone that stores in a 3D-printed bin from StrataSys in the nose of the sidecar. The package includes a drone controller by Ram Mounts, USB charging system, LED lights, and a windsock. All the rugged standard features from Ural are there too, like two-wheel-drive, a spare tire, shovel, and jerry can. Only 40 are being made worldwide, and a $500 deposit saves yours until they arrive at dealerships in November 2018.

2019 Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro Motorcycle

When Ducati's Multistrada was released for the 2018 model year, the range-topping Enduro wouldn't be far behind. While the base Multistrada is an excellent on or offroad machine, the Enduro has a slew of features that make it more suited to riding that ventures further off the pavement. The Enduro gets 19" front and 17" rear spoked wheels, along with Ducati's Skyhook semi-active suspension with an increased 7.3 inches of travel. The 1,262cc Testastretta DVT engine has been remapped to provide more torque across a broader RPM range, and the Ducati Quick Shift system lets you shift up and down through all six gears without using the clutch. Electronic aids include Vehicle Hold Control that keeps the bike stationary on up to 24.5-degree grades, Bosch six-axis inertial control, and ABS. Expect to see the Enduro in showrooms in early 2019.

Tarform Electric Motorcycle

Electric motorcycle startup Tarform has brought together the US and Europe to release a new electric motorcycle with forward-looking engineering. Tarform is based in Brooklyn, New York, and Stockholm, Sweden, and the design speaks to their roots on two continents. The sleek, uncomplicated exterior draws on vintage cafe racers of the past, with flourishes that accentuate the electric drivetrain and almost make up for the lack of a motor cradled in the frame. Radial-mounted brakes, modern USD forks, and monoshock rear suspension ensure a bike that handles and stops like it should, while the battery and motor is a modular design that aims to be future-proof with the ability to upgrade for more power and range. Tarform also makes extensive use of sustainable materials, making the bike more than just a nod towards reducing emissions.

De Castelli Samotracia Copper Motorcycle

Italian furniture house De Castelli utilizes modern shapes and raw metal finishes in much of its work, creating pieces that are as much art as functional furniture. When the company commissioned a motorcycle that would compliment their design philosophy, Italian industrial designer Mario Trimarchi had something exciting in mind — bodywork made of raw-finished copper. Trimarchi eschewed the usual aerodynamic curves in favor of an almost origami-like design of sharp creases and folds that mimic movement even while at rest. The bodywork will oxidize with the process expected to be complete in a century — making it a perfect fit with Italy's long history of art and design.