A Triumph Bonneville Unlike Any Other

The Bucephalus is not just another “Old Meets New” custom. It’s a completely fresh idea from Loaded Gun Customs, builders of other wild machines, combining a 1967 Triumph Bonneville twin — an iconic engine in its own right — and surrounding it with state-of-the-art performance components. Basically, if motorcycle engines ceased production in 1967, this would be a modern day racebike.

If you’re like me, your eyes start at the unique-looking frame. Built from 7075 aluminum, it uses the engine as a partially stressed member. Carbon engine plates help improve rigidity, and the oil cooler is discreetly mounted in between the frame rails for a clean yet functional appearance. The custom designed, and heavily braced, chromoly swingarm is mounted to the single shock without links.

Front suspension features a Buell X1 fork with upgraded internals from Race Tech. Stopping power is provided by Beringer four-piston calipers up front and a Brembo caliper in the rear.

Propelling the Bucephalus forward may be a 47-year-old engine parallel-Twin, but it has been heavily massaged. The modification list includes a 10 bolt head conversion, short stroke connecting rods, Nicasil coated aluminum cylinders, custom JRC TT exhaust pipes (with no baffle at the end!) and a pair of high-flow K&N air-filter pods.

Personally, I think the Bucephalus is gorgeous, and if it performs anything like it looks then it should be a real treat to ride. The best part is, if you’d like your own copy, go to Loaded Gun Customs and they will build you one.

Images: Erick Runyon

Thanks: Silodrome

By Troy Siahaan