Beyond their aesthetic appeal, custom motorcycles often serve as profound extensions of their owners’ identities. One such bike, the Matador, crafted by Italy’s North East Custom (NEC), embodies this sentiment. Born from the wreckage of a devastating accident, the Matador is a testament to both the rider’s indomitable spirit and the meticulous craftsmanship of the Coppiello brothers.
The Matador’s story begins with a Kawasaki W800 that had been a cherished companion to its owner. However, fate intervened, and a tragic accident left both rider and bike in a state of disrepair. While the rider underwent a long and arduous recovery, the W800 languished in the garage, a silent reminder of the ordeal.
Determined to reclaim his life and his passion for riding, the owner sought the expertise of North East Customs. With a unique request in mind, he brought along the metal rods that had once supported his broken leg. The goal was to integrate these elements into the custom motorcycle, creating a tangible connection between the rider’s physical and emotional journey.
The Coppiello brothers, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. They meticulously inspected the damaged W800, salvaging what they could and rebuilding the main frame. The stock subframe was discarded, and replaced by a custom-built unit that incorporated the rider’s artifacts.
The Matador’s transformation was nothing short of remarkable. The once wrecked motorcycle emerged as a stunning, one of a kind creation. The integration of the metal rods not only served as a visual reminder of the rider’s resilience but also imbued the bike with a profound personal significance. The Matador became more than just a machine; it became a symbol of triumph over adversity, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome.
North East Custom’s latest project, a custom-built Honda Matador, is a testament to the workshop’s ability to transform a damaged motorcycle into a stunning piece of engineering. The bike’s new bodywork, crafted from scratch, features a bespoke seat pan, a handmade fuel tank with a multi-function dial, and stylish tank badges made from surgical steel. These elements, combined with the brushed metal finish on the bodywork and the black frame, create a visually striking and unique aesthetic.
The Matador’s suspension has also been completely overhauled. New forks and adjustable rear shocks replace the original components, providing improved handling and comfort. The wheels have been laced with stainless-steel spokes and fitted with dual purpose tires, ensuring excellent traction on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Additionally, the ergonomics have been enhanced with serrated foot pegs and a wider handlebar, offering a more comfortable and controlled riding experience. The engine has received a thorough overhaul as well. New pod filters and a custom built stainless-steel exhaust system have been installed, resulting in improved performance and a more aggressive sound.
The Matador’s final appearance is a harmonious blend of black, brushed metal, and chrome, creating a striking and unique look. North East Custom’s Matador Revival is a remarkable example of custom motorcycle craftsmanship. The attention to detail, quality of materials, and innovative design elements make this bike a truly exceptional machine.
