KTM 950 SMR : Custom bike builders always find new ways to amaze us, and this time, Wayne Buys from Fabman Creations in South Africa has delivered a jaw-dropping transformation. Turning the angular KTM 950 SMR into a retro-inspired scrambler, the “Bullet” is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that blends old-school charm with modern grit. Here’s how this epic machine came to life!
A Custom Subframe with Retro Vibes
To kick off the transformation, the Bullet’s stock bodywork was stripped away, making room for a clean, minimalist design. One of the biggest changes was the custom subframe, which was built from scratch and welded seamlessly to the main chassis. Topped with a sleek black leather saddle, this new subframe also features oval side covers with the number seven and a handmade rear fender, giving the bike a refined yet rugged look.
At the back, the high-mounted rear fender houses a retro-inspired circular LED taillight and a license plate bracket, perfectly complementing the bike’s scrambler DNA.
Bold New Fuel Tank and Front-End Makeover
The fuel tank on the Bullet is impossible to miss. It gives the bike broad shoulders and a sleek, athletic look, while the radiator shrouds and custom belly pan add extra flair. Up front, the Bullet rocks a high-mounted mudguard and a small nose fairing, both classic touches that scream scrambler vibes.
A surprising detail? The headlight is repurposed from a VW Golf, proving that inspiration can come from anywhere. The fork guards, also custom-made, tie the entire front end together in style.
Upgraded Wheels and Suspension
Wayne didn’t hold back when it came to the wheels. The Bullet now rides on Ducati Multistrada wheels, with a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, wrapped in chunky dual-purpose tires for an adventurous edge.
The suspension remains mostly stock, but Wayne made subtle adjustments to the front forks, giving the bike the perfect stance. Meanwhile, a single wave-style rotor handles front-end braking, adding a modern touch to the otherwise classic build.
A Refined Cockpit and Engine Tweaks
The cockpit has been revamped with a replacement handlebar, Domino grips, and bar-end turn signals, all of which feel top-notch. A Trail Tech digital dash takes center stage, while a single bar-end mirror on the left-hand side keeps things minimal yet functional.
On the performance side, the Bullet features a custom exhaust system, giving the bike a unique sound to match its standout look.
A Color Scheme That Steals the Show
What truly ties this scrambler together is its striking color scheme. A mix of brushed alloy, grey paint, and black detailing flows across the bodywork, while the engine block and brake calipers pop in KTM’s signature orange. Black dominates the rest of the build, from the frame to the swingarm and fork tubes, ensuring the bike looks as sharp as it rides.
Why the Bullet Stands Out
The KTM 950 SMR Bullet is more than just a custom bike—it’s a statement. With its retro-inspired design, carefully crafted details, and modern performance tweaks, it’s the perfect blend of past and present. From its scrambler aesthetics to its bold color palette, this one-off creation by Fabman Creations is a head-turner that deserves every bit of attention.
