The Royal Enfield Customised World aims to connect over 650 twin owners with verified, global custom workshops. It’s an intelligent means of ensuring that Enfield’s clients confidently entrust their merchandise to builders whose work they know and trust. If you’re seeking a workshop in Europe that meets your needs, Royal Enfield suggests considering Hedgehog Motor Co., a reputable and recommended destination. within the South of France.
With bespoke motorbike modifications, the Hedgehog team provides comprehensive conversion packages for Enfield’s iconic parallel-twin engine. When visiting the local bike shop, customers may find themselves simply looking to fine-tune a few aspects of their ride, as the store typically stocks a diverse range of components both designed and manufactured internally, as well as sourced from partner brands. To celebrate its founder’s legacy and showcase its expertise on the Customized World website, the Hedgehog team has designed a unique GT650 that honors a decade of innovation in delivery.
Dubbed the Savage 650, Hedgehog Bikes’ latest endeavour builds upon a Continental GT650 foundation. While a glance at the bike’s silhouette may reveal hints of its heritage in the shape of the gas tank and the iconic Enfield 650 parallel twin, beyond these visual cues, the motorcycle bears scant resemblance to its forebear.
“Sauvage’s discordant edges give way to soothing embellishments, a paradox of aggression and comfort.” For Mathilde Ayache, a Hedgehog staff member, the ideal work-life balance is a harmonious blend of enjoyment and efficiency. “Our workshop allowed its creative instincts to shine, crafting a machine that embodies the vibrant essence of the 1980s – a nod to our heritage and roots.”
To initiate the makeover, Hedgehog harmonizes the GT650 with a curated selection from their bespoke laser-cut design library, offering a personalized touch to this iconic ride. Modifying inventory components include gill-embossed throttle body trim pieces, side fascia panels, and heel plate shields. The chain guard is a lightweight aluminum unit, and the bike’s exposed oil cooler is protected by a Hedgehog stone guard designed to deflect highway debris.
By applying the same techniques used in crafting various components for their catalogue, the designers have created a series of angular, wing-like panels that flank the entrance’s terminal point. Manufactured entirely in-house, these components were designed using computer-aided design (CAD) software before being created through a combination of laser minimization and bending processes on aluminum sheets. While the panels’ effect on bike efficiency remains uncertain, they effectively divert attention from the oil cooler’s awkward placement, a notable drawback in the 650 twin’s design.
As a result, Hedgehog set to work on the chassis, methodically removing the subframe with a grinder to streamline the 650’s dimensions. As a result of the amputation, the old rear fender and unsightly tail section were discarded, clearing the way for a sleek, modern rear design. The newly designed, significantly more compact tail is crafted from lightweight fibreglass and features a built-in LED brake light module. A unique accent to the brand-new setup is a singular seat, reimagined with an exclusive Alcantara upholstery. Spherical suspension at the rear has received a significant performance boost through custom-calibrated Ohlins piggyback shocks, optimizing its overall effectiveness.
To stay ahead of the competition, the entrance’s finishing touches have undergone a significant number of updates as well. Starting with the sleek, newly situated headlight, encased within a stylish fibreglass bikini fairing and boasting an eye-catching amber lens. The forks have undergone a comprehensive makeover courtesy of Ohlins, typically residing low within their CNC-machined triple clamps. To further refine the entrance’s aesthetic appeal, the front fender has undergone meticulous trimming, while a CNC-machined fork brace is installed to enhance stiffness.
Hedgehog then focused on upgrading his bike. The installation involves fitting a racing-style bellypan that optically reduces the overall dimensions of the motorcycle. The bike’s edges feature chunky Shinko E270 Tremendous Basic rubber wrapping, while its rear wheel boasts a sleek lining that gives the impression of a robust rim. The liberal application of matte black paint on the engine and transmission imbues the Savage 650 with a rebellious character, while the clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs establish an aggressively inclined riding position. The Hedgehog’s aggressive makeover culminates with a striking application of contrastingly bold white vinyl graphics, inspired by the world of motorsport.
Without a clear understanding of the stakes, attempting to wield this potent force is futile; therefore, Hedgehog has invested in standardised training and upgraded his exhaustion protocols. A sleek, high-performance exhaust system features a distinctive two-into-two design, complete with intricately laser-cut heat shields that perfectly match the vehicle’s theme. The bike inhales via a forward-facing Ok&N filter hanging from a {custom} consumption and the fueling has, in fact, been tuned to swimsuit.
To complete the retro-futuristic makeover, Hedgehog had the inventory tank and tail resplendent in a vibrant, neon-lit hue reminiscent of the iconic era that was the 1980s. The motorcycle’s striking appearance features a mesmerizing blend of colors: a gradient transitioning from deep purple to vibrant orange beneath a striking black stripe pattern, finished with an impressive eight layers of crystal-clear coating.
While the Savage 650 may not be universally appealing, its rugged individualism perfectly encapsulates the essence of an iconic decade.
