Garage Builder Distills Ducati Monster S2R Down To Its Essence


We frequently celebrate custom projects from the industry’s top builders, but every customizer has to start somewhere. For Brent Smedley, that start came after purchasing a 2006 Ducati Monster S2R 800 with only 3,500 miles on the clock. Outside of Smedley’s 9-to-5 in sports medicine at a local university, the garage builder learned metal fabrication in his off-time. That training allowed Smedley to build his dream bike, which he named Antevasine.

Starting with the like-new Monster, the moonlight builder retained the air-cooled, four-valve, 803cc, Desmodromic V-twin, but ditched most of the stock frame. With only the steering head intact, Smedley fabricated an exoskeleton frame that now houses the mighty mill and hand-made custom gas tank. The budding metal master didn’t stop there, though. He also fabricated the front fender, electronics housing, gauge mount, battery compartment, and stainless steel exhaust.

Smedley may have preserved the single-sided swingarm and 17-inch wheelset, but he also updated the front end with Speedymoto triple clamps and a Ducati Monster S4R fork assembly. The part-time builder didn’t mess with the Desmodromic V-twin’s internals, but a Microtec ECU, custom velocity stacks, and custom oil cooler line help the aging powerplant perform better than ever.

To match the Antevasine’s aggressive stance, Smedley adopted clip-on handlebars while Motogadget controls, instrument cluster, and turn signals modernize the Monster. Aside from completing the fabrication, painting, and electrical wiring in my single-car garage, Smedley outsourced the project’s powder coating and seat upholstery. Even so, the after-hours customizer should be proud of the Antevasine, and the work that went into the build.

“It’s a strange feeling. To dedicate so much of oneself to one goal,” admitted Smedley. “Overall, most days, I can’t believe I built what I consider to be such a cool machine while starting with zero fabrication skills.”

Now, Smedley has to decide whether he will keep the Avant-Garde Monster, but it doesn’t seem like he’s in any rush.

“I would just really like to sit back, have a beer or twelve and talk to people about this motorcycle for a bit.”



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