Style Rider focuses on the intersection of motorcycle culture and individual style. Here we speak to Richard Caddick about the customisation of his Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport into a stylish cafe racer.
Name: Richard Caddick
Residence: Sydney, Australia
Occupation: Construction Manager
Instagram: moto_bark
Today’s ride: 2018 BARK x Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport. This thing has got a hell of a bark. I always loved the Ducati sound and scrambler/cafe racer look, but felt that the 803cc was a little too small. The 1100 Scrambler is a well put together, proportionally scaled up version of the 803. The only problem was, they didn’t make a cafe racer. So I set about sourcing an 1100 sport and loving that they upgraded to Ohlins suspension all round. It was the perfect choice for a donor bike for the customisation I had in mind.
Over the last eight months I have replaced the rear number plate and mudguard assembly installing “new rage cycles” turn signals, tail tidy and “competition werkes” slip on exhaust. The seat was swapped out for the Mugello 1100 Tracker seat. The biggest transformation came about with the help from Gasoline motors in Sydney when the original upright scrambler handlebars were swapped out for new three-piece Woodcraft clip on bars with Rizoma grips, break & clutch leavers.
That left the problem of what to do with the offset instrument cluster. I had seen photos of the set up but didn’t know the contact. Sean at Gasoline motors did all the running round to find the correct part. The dash mount was a custom designed relocation printed on a Stratasys Fortus 450MC – 0.2mm layer height and 80% infill. The parts are a carbon fibre fill polycarbonate, both for strength and because the carbon fibre fill keeps it from fading with UV exposure. Final touches were from a carbon fibre automotive wrap that I fitted to the bumblebee stripes, headlight surround and engine panels completing the stealth like to look.
Describe your style: Modern classic, keeping it clean and simple. Everything is functional with a throwback to the classics.
Next purchase: I would like to be able to get out on the dirt, maybe on a KTM 690 adventurer or modify one of the Caballero Rally 500. It’s just great having options.
Style inspiration: Steve McQueen. Stylish and classic. This outfit was pulled together for the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride and includes a Scorpion Helmet with DGR stickers, Deus ex Machina gloves and Last Footwear Company boots. I bought these boots in New Zealand in 1992 and they still look great. Always buy quality.
Best local ride: Riding through Kenthurst following the Cattai Creek and out to the Hawksbury is always a great ride. Even late in the day is good if you miss the morning ride.
Best distance ride: Taking the ferry across to Sackville then up to The Putty Road creating a loop at Milbrodale then back through Yallambie and crossing the Hawksbury at Wisemans to home; a 440 kilometres round trip.
Tip for stylish motorcycling: Commit to the complete look. Instagram is a great place to start if you want to be inspired. There are so many niche brands available no combining styling and safety into their range, so take your time and have fun.
Tip for best looking safe riding gear: I think we are at our best when striking a balance between safe riding gear and looking good. With so many stylish options from Belstaff to Dainese, there are no excuses. Give it the pub test.
Next motorcycle trip: Head back across the ditch–Tasman Seas–and catch up with family and friends on the South Island New Zealand, arguably the best riding in the world.
Why do you like riding? It’s a bit cliche, but there is a sense of freedom about riding. The only thing you think about is lining up the next apex. It’s also something that clears your mind. It’s a great balance between family work and time for yourself.
