Frequently, custom projects kick off with a well-defined battle plan, providing a roadmap for builders from start to finish. Yet, there are occasions when it’s advantageous to follow the flow, as spontaneity can yield remarkable results. This was precisely the case with the creation of the rugged dual-sport titan, the Raptor, by Matteucci Garage in Italy.
Shop owner Marco Matteucci and his team initially aimed for simplicity, starting with a Honda NX650 Dominator as their base. The original intent was to craft a budget-friendly off-roader, but the project took on a life of its own during the initial stages. Eventually, Matteucci transformed it into a fully-fledged adventure bike capable of venturing far off the beaten path.
Dubbed the Raptor, it’s evident that no expense was spared in its creation. Leveraging his experience as a graphic designer and professional photographer, Marco infused each build with meticulous attention to detail. With the donor bike at their Montegranaro shop, Matteucci and his crew wasted no time going into the transformation.
Addressing illumination, Matteucci installed a potent Koso LED headlight protected by a steel outer ring and grille. Auxiliary spotlights were added for enhanced visibility, complemented by a high-mounted fender and wind deflector. Inside the cockpit, a digital Motoscope Mini dial and smartphone mount were integrated, accompanied by LED warning lights and heated grips for comfort.
The Raptor’s livery, a blend of matte-black, white, and yellow-ochre, exuded both elegance and ruggedness. This aesthetic extended to the seat upholstery and storage bags, creating a cohesive design. With the final touches applied, the Raptor was primed for endless adventures, emerging as one of the most impressive NX650 customs to date.