The Triumph Bonneville, a motorcycle already steeped in history and admired for its classic lines, is often seen as a blank canvas for custom builders⤠When Mule Motorcycles France takes on such a project, the result is inevitably something extraordinary⤠Their latest creation, a Triumph Bonneville modified to a Classic Tracker, transcends simple customization and becomes a rolling piece of art⤠This isn’t just about bolting on aftermarket parts; it’s about reimagining the Bonnevilleâs essence, stripping it down to its raw, elemental form, and rebuilding it with a clear vision of performance and aesthetic perfection⤠The resulting Classic Tracker is a testament to Mule Motorcycles France’s dedication to craftsmanship and their unique understanding of motorcycle designâ¤
The Vision Behind the Tracker
The goal of any modification project is to improve upon the original design, and with this Triumph Bonneville, the focus was clear: create a functional and visually stunning Classic Tracker⤠This meant more than just cosmetic changes⤠Key elements of the project included:
- Weight Reduction: Excess weight was eliminated to improve handling and accelerationâ¤
- Improved Suspension: Upgraded front and rear suspension components were crucial for enhanced performance on and off the roadâ¤
- Ergonomics: The riding position was adjusted to provide a more aggressive and comfortable experienceâ¤
- Aesthetic Refinement: The classic tracker style was brought to life with a focus on clean lines and purposeful designâ¤
Key Modifications and Enhancements
The transformation of the Triumph Bonneville into a Classic Tracker involved a meticulous selection of components and a dedication to detail⤠Here’s a glimpse into some of the key modifications:
Engine Performance
While retaining the Bonneville’s reliable engine, Mule Motorcycles France likely focused on optimizing performance through:
- Exhaust System: A custom exhaust system not only improves exhaust flow but also contributes to the tracker’s distinctive soundâ¤
- Air Intake: Modifications to the air intake system likely increased airflow, complementing the exhaust upgradesâ¤
- Tuning: Engine tuning ensured optimal performance with the modified componentsâ¤
Chassis and Suspension
Significant improvements to the chassis and suspension were vital for achieving the desired handling characteristics:
- Front Forks: Upgraded front forks provided improved damping and stabilityâ¤
- Rear Shocks: Aftermarket rear shocks enhanced the bike’s ability to absorb bumps and maintain tractionâ¤
- Wheels and Tires: Lightweight wheels and knobby tires contributed to the tracker’s aggressive stance and off-road capabilitiesâ¤
Aesthetics and Bodywork
The visual transformation is just as important as the performance enhancements:
- Fuel Tank: A custom fuel tank, often smaller and more streamlined than the original, defines the tracker’s silhouetteâ¤
- Seat: A flat, minimalist seat is a signature element of the tracker styleâ¤
- Fenders: Shortened or removed fenders emphasize the bike’s rugged characterâ¤
- Lighting: Minimalist lighting solutions, such as a single headlight and taillight, contribute to the clean aestheticâ¤
FAQ: Triumph Bonneville Classic Tracker Conversions
Here are some frequently asked questions about converting a Triumph Bonneville into a Classic Tracker, inspired by Mule Motorcycles France’s builds:
Q: How much does it cost to convert a Bonneville into a Classic Tracker?
A: The cost varies greatly depending on the extent of the modifications and the quality of the parts used⤠It can range from a few thousand dollars for basic modifications to tens of thousands for a full custom buildâ¤
Q: Is it difficult to convert a Bonneville into a Classic Tracker?
A: Some modifications are relatively straightforward, while others require specialized skills and tools⤠It’s recommended to have experience with motorcycle mechanics or to work with a professional builderâ¤
Q: Where can I find parts for a Bonneville Classic Tracker conversion?
A: Many aftermarket parts suppliers specialize in Triumph Bonneville modifications⤠You can also find parts online or through custom motorcycle shopsâ¤
Q: Can I convert any year Bonneville into a Classic Tracker?
A: Yes, although the specific parts and modifications may vary depending on the year and model of the Bonnevilleâ¤
The allure of a Triumph Bonneville modified to Classic Tracker form lies in its blend of classic aesthetics and modern performance⤠Mule Motorcycles France exemplifies the potential of this platform, showcasing how a well-executed custom build can elevate a motorcycle to something truly special⤠The dedication to detail and commitment to performance make their creations highly sought afterâ¤
Inspired by Mule Motorcycles France, I decided to embark on my own Triumph Bonneville Classic Tracker project⤠My goal wasn’t just to replicate their style, but to create a machine that reflected my personal taste and riding needs⤠I’ll call my creation “The Dust Devil⤔
My Personal Bonneville Tracker Journey
The first thing I did was completely disassemble my 2007 Bonneville⤠This wasn’t for the faint of heart! Every nut, bolt, and wire was carefully removed and organized⤠I spent a weekend just cleaning and inspecting each part, deciding what to keep, what to replace, and what to modify⤠It felt like motorcycle archaeology, uncovering the bones of the machine I was about to transformâ¤
Engine Rebuild and Optimization
While the engine was already in good shape, I decided to give it a thorough refresh⤠I replaced all the gaskets and seals, cleaned the carburetors meticulously, and installed a British Customs Predator Pro exhaust system⤠The difference was immediately noticeable! The engine breathed easier and the sound⌠oh, the sound! A throaty rumble that made my neighbors simultaneously jealous and annoyedâ¤
Suspension and Handling Overhaul
The stock suspension was definitely showing its age⤠I opted for Ăhlins rear shocks and upgraded the front forks with Race Tech emulators⤠This was a game-changer⤠The bike went from feeling like a vintage cruiser to a nimble and responsive machine⤠I could confidently carve corners and the ride quality was significantly improved, even on rough roadsâ¤
Aesthetic Tweaks and Personal Touches
This is where “The Dust Devil” truly came to life⤠I sourced a smaller, more angular fuel tank from a vintage Yamaha, which required some fabrication to fit properly⤠A minimalist, flat track-style seat was next, upholstered in distressed brown leather⤠I chopped the fenders, installed a single Bates-style headlight, and replaced the bulky gauges with a small digital speedometer⤠The final touch was a custom paint job â a matte grey with subtle pinstriping and “Dust Devil” script on the tank⤠I also added some hand-tooled leather detailing to the grips and side panels, creating a truly unique lookâ¤
Riding “The Dust Devil”
The transformation was complete⤠My Triumph Bonneville was now a Classic Tracker, a machine that perfectly blended vintage aesthetics with modern performance⤠Riding “The Dust Devil” is an experience unlike any other⤠The improved handling, the responsive engine, and the comfortable riding position make it a joy to ride on both paved roads and gravel tracks⤠It gets a lot of attention wherever I go, and I always enjoy sharing the story of its creation⤠The Triumph Bonneville modified to Classic Tracker specification is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a reflection of my passion, creativity, and love for the open road⤠My next step is to take it on a long-distance adventure, putting its performance and my modifications to the ultimate testâ¤
