Custom Buell Gets Drag Bike Treatment
Former Cyclone had all the right papers and a buyer.
Capable Hands
Stretched and slammed was not even a consideration when Erik Buell first designed the 1996 M2 Cyclone. Miles away from its compact street machine days, the current version is a low-down, hardtail rocket. Housed in a SCS frame, the potent Buell earned its racing laurels before landing in the capable hands of Martin Becker of the German-based MB Cycles.
Photos courtesy of Riders Eyes Photography.
Regular Client
Repeat customers are a good sign—especially in the custom bike business. Becker is well known in Europe for building tough-looking Harley-Davidsons, and the occasional BMW. Formerly raced at the Glemseck 101, an annual German motorcycle event that is about both speed and style, the modified Cyclone was passed around to various owners until a regular client spied it at Becker's shop.
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Unique Attitude
At the time, the mean-green machine was nowhere near its current finished state, but it had potential. Importantly, the Cyclone had the correct papers, making it street legal—a difficult task considering Germany's stiff modified bike laws. With commission in hand, Becker got busy cleaning up the unique ride, best described as a blend of styles with loads of attitude.
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Fuel Delivery
With the Cyclone pulled apart, the 1203cc motor was checked out and treated to a fresh coat of wrinkle black. For street use, Becker reinstalled the stock 40mm Keihin CV carburetor, coupled to a K&N performance intake. A Dyna S single fire ignition system and coils from S&S Cycle round out the fuel delivery and firing components.
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Compliant System
Becker then fabricated one-off exhaust headers that wrap around both sides of the Sportster-based engine. A short Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde muffler was fitted to the custom blacked-out pipes. Equipped with an electronically controlled valve, the legally compliant system can be opened or closed to varying loudness, depending on how much one likes their neighbors.
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Sport Rubber
To get the stance right, Becker lowered the front end by two inches. For a slightly different look, the stanchions were coated in a low-friction, diamond-like carbon coating. While the cast spoke wheels look the same, they come from different sources. The front is a 21'' hoop from RevTech, and the back was pulled from a Harley-Davidson Breakout—both sport Avon Cobra Chrome rubber.
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Road Worthy
The custom Cyclone's brakes are also from different donors. A polished four-piston Beringer caliper resides up front, while a two-pot Performance Machine unit brings up the rear. The list of assorted parts also includes ABM clip-on bars, a V-Rod fairing, a Japanese gas tank, Kellermann LED turn signals and taillight, and a Motogadget speedometer to make everything roadworthy.
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Sharp Chops
Becker's client gave him free rein with the build, with no preconceived idea about the outcome. Becker appreciated the trust in his work and vision, stating that it was “the best way for him to build a bike.” Looks like this M2 Cyclone turned drag bike, now the custom street machine has all the right chops—along with the pedigree to back its sharp appearance.
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