Marc Benoist’s 2014 Triumph Bonneville T100 cafe racer transformation is a masterclass in blending vintage aesthetics with modern performance. Drawing inspiration from the race bikes of the 1960s and ’70s, Marc envisioned a fully faired design that paid homage to Triumph’s British heritage.
After meticulous planning, he selected GRP fiberglass bodywork from Motoforza in the Czech Republic, which, when mounted with custom hardware, gave the Bonneville a classic racer silhouette.
One of the Most Beautiful Custom Triumph Bonneville T100 Cafe Racer Builds I’ve Seen
Complementing the front fairing is a custom wasp tail rear cowl and a diamond-stitched seat by Larson. Notably, the installation preserved the bike’s original frame, ensuring that the modifications were reversible and compliant with registration standards. Marc also retained both fenders, emphasizing practicality for all-weather riding.
To enhance handling, Marc upgraded the suspension system with premium Öhlins components, replacing the stock rear shocks and refining the fork internals. While the engine remained largely stock, he implemented an ECU tune to optimize performance.
Further refinements included Motogadget turn signals, an LED headlight, glassless bar-end mirrors, Woodcraft clip-on handlebars, Puig rear set pegs, and Biltwell grips, all contributing to a cohesive and modernized riding experience.
Aesthetically, the Bonneville boasts a custom PPG royal blue paint scheme, accented with gold details on the bodywork and running gear, elevating its visual appeal. Marc’s Bonneville cafe racer stands as a testament to his passion for creating a unique machine that seamlessly merges classic style with contemporary performance.
Sources: Return of the Cafe Racers, MB Design Concepts
