Secret Mud Lover: A Royal Enfield 650 ATV from Argentina
![Secret Mud Lover: A Royal Enfield 650 ATV from Argentina](https://news7g.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/fb-4-780x470.jpg)
It is widely accepted. that a custom motorcycle doesn’t need to actually be capable of off-roading to be called a scrambler. Like many other genres of custom, the moniker has become as much about the style of the motorcycle as it is about its intended use. So it’s interesting to see a custom scrambler that fits both of those criteria.
This upgraded Royal Enfield 650 mixer It scores high on both form and function. It’s the work of Marcelo Obarrio and Germán Karp at STG Tracker in Buenos Aires, Argentina, who happily admit that, at first glance, it just looks like “another Royal Enfield”. But it’s actually much more than that.
Visually, Marcelo and German retain the timeless elegance of Royal Enfield 650. Pixel-perfect images are a hallmark of STG Tracker work, so the OEM tank is freshly painted by Alejandro Minissale, facing a custom tanned leather seat. The aluminum bumpers on both wheels and the rear frame are treated to a delicate cut and loop process.
As for the aesthetics of the bike, that’s it. Every other mod on this Enfield is geared toward moderate off-roading, as requested by the client. “He lives in Patagonia and loves off-roading,” Marcelo tells us, “so we kept in mind that the bike had to be 100% designed for that.”
To start, STG raided a KTM 390 Adventure for the forks, brakes, and swingarm. The forks were upgraded with new internals to accommodate the weight of the larger Enfield, and the swingarm was shortened to maintain the same wheelbase. A new pair of shock mounts were also added, allowing STG to retain the stock twin-shock setup.
Next, new Excel rims were laced to OEM hubs. Measuring 19” up front and 17” out back, they’re shod with Metzeler Karoo tires, for a balance of on-road and off-road grip. Between the larger front wheel and the improved suspension, the bike now sits a little taller too.
To refine the ergonomics, STG fitted tall, wide handlebars on new risers that are taller than the standard handlebars. The handlebars are equipped with new grips, ProTaper levers and Motone push buttons. A new digital-analog combo console completes the cockpit.
The guys also modified the foot control mount to place the pegs lower. “When you stand up now, you’re in the right position to ‘climb’—if that’s even a thing,” says Marcelo.
The Enfield now has full LED lighting, including a pair of headlights mounted to a new engine guard. A grill protects the headlights from rocks, while a custom-made underbody guard is also available. The footpegs, front sprocket cover and radiator cap are all available from the STG parts catalogue.
It’s also worth noting that this Royal Enfield is no longer a 650. Hidden under the black engine covers is an 865cc big-block from S&S Cycle, along with an S&S camshaft, Rekluse clutch, and K&N high-flow air filter.
Rounding out the performance mods is a two-into-one stainless steel exhaust system. Covered by a handcrafted aluminum shield, it ends in a raucous SC-Project muffler. A Power Commander chip ensures all the upgrades run smoothly.
Flipping the bike over to the left side, you’ll find the Royal Enfield Scrambler’s versatile luggage rack. It’s shown here holding a five-litre [1.32-gallon] fuel cell, but it can also carry a basket or tool kit.
Now that the bike is complete and properly tested, Marcelo can confirm that this is not just “another Royal Enfield”.
“Yeah, it’s a great bike. Full power and torque; a tire burner and a mud racer.”
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