Royal Enfield’s collaboration with global custom workshops has led to the creation of unique motorcycles that blend heritage with innovation. One such collaboration is with Frontwheel Motors, an Indonesian custom shop, resulting in the Groove FT450 a Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 transformed into a flat tracker. This build showcases Frontwheel’s craftsmanship and the potential of the Guerrilla 450 platform.
The Vision Behind Groove FT450
Frontwheel Motors received a stock Guerrilla 450 with the directive to create a flat tracker. The goal was to combine handmade parts with high-quality components to produce a single-cylinder motorcycle that performs as well as it looks. Despite a tight two-month timeline, the team embarked on the project with enthusiasm and precision.
Summary Table
Feature |
Specification/Details |
|---|---|
Base Model |
Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 |
Custom Shop |
Frontwheel Motors (Indonesia) |
Front Suspension |
Öhlins forks with CNC-machined yokes |
Rear Suspension |
Öhlins shock with custom swingarm |
Wheels and Tires |
19” Lowery Racing wheels with Shinko tires |
Braking System |
Rear Brembo caliper and disc; front brake deleted |
Engine Modifications |
Race-spec ECU, revised ignition, 44 mm billet throttle body, upgraded injector |
Weight Reduction |
15 kg (33 lbs) lighter than stock |
Bodywork |
Handmade monocoque aluminum body with integrated fuel tank and tail |
Custom Components |
CNC-machined foot pegs, controls, mounts, radiator overflow bottle, low-slung exhaust |
Track Equipment |
Renthal 843 handlebars, Acerbis throttle, ProTaper grips, lap timer |
Livery |
Blue and gold with ghosted checkerboard pattern |
Name Significance |
Symbolizes continuous movement and Frontwheel’s journey |
Chassis and Suspension Upgrades
The transformation began with stripping down the Guerrilla 450 to its frame. The original black finish was replaced with a silver hue, giving the bike a fresh appearance. The front end was equipped with blacked-out Öhlins forks, supported by CNC-machined yokes, while a matching Öhlins shock was installed at the rear, connected to a custom swingarm. The bike now rides on 19” flat track wheels from Lowery Racing, fitted with Shinko tires. Notably, the front brake was removed, and the rear was upgraded with a Brembo caliper and disc, attached via a CNC-machined bracket.
Engine and Performance Enhancements
The Guerrilla 450’s engine, producing just under 40 hp and weighing 174 kg (383.6 lbs), was further tuned for performance. Frontwheel Motors replaced the stock ECU with a race-spec unit, revised the ignition system, installed a 44 mm billet aluminum throttle body, and upgraded the injector. These modifications, along with a reduction in weight by 15 kg (33 lbs), significantly improved the bike’s performance.
Custom Bodywork and Design
To maintain the integrity of the original frame, Frontwheel Motors fabricated a slimmer subframe and designed a monocoque body using 3 mm aluminum sheets. This bodywork integrated the fuel tank, tail, and side panels into a cohesive unit, adorned with a slim seat pad and a sporty gas cap from WR3 Performance. The design was completed with a blue and gold livery, featuring a ghosted checkerboard pattern, drawing inspiration from NASCAR racing cars.
Unique Components and Finishing Touches
Attention to detail is evident throughout the Groove FT450. Frontwheel Motors crafted custom foot pegs, controls, and mounts, along with a new radiator overflow bottle. The low-slung exhaust system adds to the bike’s aggressive stance. For track use, all roadworthy components were removed, and a traditional flat track number board was mounted on the fork uppers. The Renthal 843 handlebars, mounted on angled risers, are equipped with an Acerbis throttle, ProTaper grips, basic switches, and a discreet lap timer.
The Name: Groove FT450
The name “Groove FT450” reflects the continuous movement of a wheel, symbolizing the project’s journey from inception to completion. It also represents Frontwheel Motors’ ongoing commitment to building custom bikes and achieving global project successes. As shop boss Chandra Gunawan states, the name signifies the team’s tireless dedication and long-held dreams brought to fruition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450?
A. The Guerrilla 450 is a model from Royal Enfield, featuring a 452cc liquid-cooled engine, designed for versatility and performance. Royal Enfield
Q2: Who is Frontwheel Motors?
A. Frontwheel Motors is a custom motorcycle shop based in Indonesia, known for their innovative designs and craftsmanship.
Q3: What modifications were made to the Guerrilla 450 in the Groove FT450 build?
A. Modifications include suspension upgrades with Öhlins components, engine tuning with a race-spec ECU and billet throttle body, custom bodywork, and various unique components crafted by Frontwheel Motors.
Q4: Is the Groove FT450 intended for street use?
A. No, the Groove FT450 is a track-focused flat tracker, with all roadworthy components removed for racing purposes.
Q5: Where can I see more of Frontwheel Motors’ work?
A. You can explore more of their custom builds and projects on their official Instagram page: @frontwheel.motors.
For More Information Click HERE
