My friend Rick is a man who likes what he likes, similar to myself. Throughout this project several people have been rather negative, in regards to the machine it is based off of, thinking it is too heavy, under powered, uninspiring suspension and a host of other complaints. Rick and I thought “who gives a shit” the whole time and I must say that I still feel that way after the first stage is done. I think the motorcycle turned out great and I think it will only get better.

I was considering racing in the Thruxton Cup this year and was speaking to Rick about it while looking at parts, rules, dates, etc… while browsing the parts I pulled up a ZARD exhaust for the Thruxton as I carry ZARD and really like their designs. Rick immeadiatly was on the same page as me and loved the look too. They show the exhaust with a Cup bike from Italy with some other modifications such as Plastic Bike bodywork. They are allowed more modifications than the Thruxton Cup here in the US is. With this the brain storming began!

We (at Commonwealth Motorcycles) became a Triumph dealer around the start of 2008 and at that time a dealer in Chicagoland went out of business. We bought 8 or so of their left over 2007 models at a good price and proceeded to sell most of them. In this deal we acquired a Thruxton, black with the checkered stripe down the center. Rick sat on it a few times then came in one day with his check book. He bought the bike and the parts we had been tossing around and the fun began.

We ordered the ZARD full system, Ohlins fully adjustable rear shocks, Avon race tires that are used in the Cup series, CRG bar end mirrors, Katana LED tail light, mini LED turn signals, British Customs air box kit and injection block off kit.

The next stage looks like it will include adjustable rear sets, front suspension work, Plastic Bike belly pan painted black, possibly a color matched fly screen, wide rear wheel and modern sport bike tires, etc…

The initial ride impression from 100 miles was very favorable. Rick said the bike handles beautifully and is smooth as silk. Not as powerful as his other bikes. Triumph 675, Suzuki GSXR 750, etc… but he didn’t go into this project thinking it would be. We have another track day scheduled for the 30th of this month and he plans to bring this bike in addition to his 675. I’d like to grab a ride on it as I’m still thinking about participating in the Thruxton cup next year (if it is still around).

For more information on our shop visit www.commoto.com, parts at www.store.commoto.com and www.desmoworks.com.

See more images from this flickr set here.