Photo: Thomas Kettlety via Instagram
It’s not uncommon for bikes to show up at workshops needing a few minor tweaks and perhaps a clean-up, only to end up going far down the customization rabbit hole. That is essentially how this mesmerizing Ducati 900SS (aka Arfa) has attained its current form, courtesy of Matt Coulter over in Essex, England. He operates as Sticky’s Speed Shop, and the quality of his work is absolutely top-notch.
This 900SS had to be done in time for the 2024 Bike Shed Show in London, so Matt wasted no time getting started once the donor was in his possession. For starters, the whole thing was dismantled and a large chunk of its stock paraphernalia got taken out of the equation. That included all the original bodywork besides the fuel tank, as well as the forks, wheels, and exhaust.
Matt also did away with the factory subframe and swingarm, enrolling the help of Lee Mitchell from Steelheart Engineering to fabricate the replacements. Starting with the rear framework, it is an aluminum piece comprising two CNC-machined lateral sections and a tubular trellis construction further back. The new swingarm was built in a similar manner, and both of them were left unpainted to make the tasty metalwork really stand out.
On the other hand, the main trestle frame got wrapped in a layer of satin-black by Powder Worx. The next step saw the old-school Ducati shipped to the exhaust wizards at Hitchcox Motorcycles, so it could be treated to some fresh pipework. A very intricate setup was made out of titanium, ending in dual silencers right below the tail section.
Speaking of which, that boxy tail had once belonged to a Yamaha TZ, but it's been adapted to work with Arfa’s custom subframe. Then there is the gorgeous half-fairing installed at the front, an aftermarket King Carbon module originally destined for the Suzuki RG500 MK2. Billet triple clamps were used to fit the inverted forks of a Ducati 916, and the whole shebang rides on Dymag wheels hugged by top-grade Michelin Power GP2 tires.
For improved stopping power, Matt threw a host of HEL Performance goodies into the mix, including beefier calipers, new master cylinders, and premium brake lines at both ends. Other bits worth mentioning here are the clip-on handlebars, compact switches, and replacement dials – an analog tachometer complemented by a digital speedo nearby.
A stunning black leather seat and aftermarket rearsets complete the motorcycle’s ergonomic package, and the L-twin engine is now equipped with fresh timing belt and clutch covers. Sticky’s custom makeover also involved the installation of an LED headlight, but what really sets Arfa apart is the paintwork. Executed by AK Custom Paint and Body, it features a black base topped with lightning bolts done in a red-to-blue gradient pattern.
Matt also did away with the factory subframe and swingarm, enrolling the help of Lee Mitchell from Steelheart Engineering to fabricate the replacements. Starting with the rear framework, it is an aluminum piece comprising two CNC-machined lateral sections and a tubular trellis construction further back. The new swingarm was built in a similar manner, and both of them were left unpainted to make the tasty metalwork really stand out.
On the other hand, the main trestle frame got wrapped in a layer of satin-black by Powder Worx. The next step saw the old-school Ducati shipped to the exhaust wizards at Hitchcox Motorcycles, so it could be treated to some fresh pipework. A very intricate setup was made out of titanium, ending in dual silencers right below the tail section.
Speaking of which, that boxy tail had once belonged to a Yamaha TZ, but it's been adapted to work with Arfa’s custom subframe. Then there is the gorgeous half-fairing installed at the front, an aftermarket King Carbon module originally destined for the Suzuki RG500 MK2. Billet triple clamps were used to fit the inverted forks of a Ducati 916, and the whole shebang rides on Dymag wheels hugged by top-grade Michelin Power GP2 tires.
For improved stopping power, Matt threw a host of HEL Performance goodies into the mix, including beefier calipers, new master cylinders, and premium brake lines at both ends. Other bits worth mentioning here are the clip-on handlebars, compact switches, and replacement dials – an analog tachometer complemented by a digital speedo nearby.
A stunning black leather seat and aftermarket rearsets complete the motorcycle’s ergonomic package, and the L-twin engine is now equipped with fresh timing belt and clutch covers. Sticky’s custom makeover also involved the installation of an LED headlight, but what really sets Arfa apart is the paintwork. Executed by AK Custom Paint and Body, it features a black base topped with lightning bolts done in a red-to-blue gradient pattern.
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