Marcelo Obarrio and Germán Karp form an exceptional team, crafting unique masterpieces as STG Tracker in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Originally a solo venture by Marcelo, who completed his inaugural professional build in 2013, the shop expanded rapidly, necessitating Germán’s addition to manage the growing workload.
Together, they’ve produced some of the most remarkable custom motorcycles to emerge from Latin America, including the impressive Suzuki GN250 bobber.
While the pictured bike differs significantly from their GN250 project, it exudes equal intrigue and character. Opting to build a Ducati cafe racer with neo-retro vibes, Marcelo and Germán chose an unconventional route from the start.
While many might opt for a Ducati Monster for such a conversion, STG disregarded convention and selected a Multistrada 1200S from the 2011 model year, finding joy in the challenge.
The chosen donor boasts exceptional mechanical prowess, powered by a liquid-cooled 1,198cc L-twin engine producing up to 150 horsepower and 88 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed transmission. Premium Brembo brakes with ABS and electronically adjustable suspension further enhance its capabilities.
Converting a Multistrada into a cafe racer presented a monumental task, but STG’s expertise and passion prevailed. They started by removing the original subframe, bodywork, and front-end equipment, exposing the bike’s stunning trellis frame.
A custom-matching trestle subframe was crafted, complemented by custom-made panels to enclose the triangular gaps and conceal wiring.
The transformation continued with the installation of a new aluminum fuel tank with knee indentations and a flush-mounted filler cap, along with a carbon fiber tail section sporting cafe racer geometry. Custom upholstery with a honeycomb pattern stitching adorns the saddle, adding to the bike’s allure.
STG fabricated all these components in-house, including a new front fender, while retrofitting a Ducati Panigale’s Ohlins forks and braking equipment to achieve the desired stance. The cockpit now features aftermarket clip-ons and a state-of-the-art LED headlight with adaptive capabilities.
While the powertrain remains unchanged, custom-built exhaust pipework and carbon fiber add-ons enhance the bike’s aesthetics and performance. A fresh radiator cover and swingarm-mounted license plate bracket complete the look.
STG opted for a minimalist color scheme, allowing the exposed aluminum and carbon fiber to shine. Splashes of gold on the Ohlins forks and red on the frame, along with retro Ducati logos on the gas tank, provide subtle accents.
In the end, Germán and Marcelo’s transformation turned the Multistrada 1200S into a unique cafe racer that bears little resemblance to its stock form.
While using a Monster variant might have been easier, the charm of their unconventional choice adds to the bike’s appeal. Their incredible build showcases their talent, leaving us eager to see more from the Argentine duo in the future.
