Transforming a Ducati Legend: How One Bold Vision Brought New Life to the MH900e
When it comes to the pantheon of Italian motorcycle design, few names spark as much admiration and desire as the Ducati MH900e. Crafted as a homage to the racing pedigree and aesthetic of Ducati, the MH900e, with its limited run of just 2,000 units, represents a rare blend of artistry and engineering. Born from the mind of Pierre Terblanche, this motorcycle isn't just a machine; it's a moving canvas, capturing the essence of Ducati's legacy.
Yet, in the world of motorcycle enthusiasts, the line between reverence and revolution is often a thin one. The decision to modify a Ducati MH900e, a machine considered by many as sacrosanct, is a venture into what many would deem sacrilegious. However, for a tattoo studio owner in Taiwan, the call to reimagine this iconic bike couldn't be ignored. His partnership with Onehandmade, despite initial hesitations, resulted in a transformation that challenges conventions while celebrating the bike's original spirit.
The journey began with sketches, ideas flowing onto paper, daring to envision what many thought untouchable. The project then moved into deconstruction, stripping away the MH900e's original bodywork to prepare for a rebirth. This phase wasn't just about dismantling; it was about laying the groundwork for innovation.
Onehandmade's vision took physical form through expertly crafted aluminum bodywork. At the forefront of this transformation is a captivating front fairing, seamlessly flowing into a new fuel tank, challenging the norms of motorcycle aesthetics. The craftsmanship doesn't just stop at what's visible; underneath, a hand-shaped belly pan fits snugly around the L-twin engine, with a meticulously cut space allowing the exhaust to breathe.
The narrative of change continues at the back, where a custom tail section houses discreet LEDs, and the decision to use a titanium exhaust system adds a layer of sophistication and performance. This bike isn't just about looking good; it's about sounding and performing at a level that respects its Ducati lineage.
Gravity-defying design choices are complemented with functionality, as seen with Ohlins shock absorbers and repurposed Ducati Monster forks. High-performance touches from Brembo brakes to Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa tires ensure this custom MH900e loses none of its tractability for the sake of art.
But a Ducati is more than just a sum of its parts. The cockpit, minimalist yet functional, houses a Motogadget dial, symbolizing the fusion of classic and modern. The handlebars, now sporting fresh grips and integrated signals, along with a meticulously selected rear-mounted foot peg and an aftermarket steering damper, finalize this bike's transformation.
This Ducati MH900e's metamorphosis from a collectible to a custom masterpiece embodies the spirit of innovation that drives the motorcycling world. It's a testament to the craftsman's courage and creativity, revealing that within the heart of every classic lies the potential for reinvention.