399cc L-twin Ducati from Hardheads Motostudio…
The Ducati Scrambler is one of the major success stories in recent motorcycling history. Much like the Monster several decades earlier, the Scrambler aimed for mechanical simplicity and classic style over expensive exotica, which proved a winning formula. In the first year of production alone, the Bologna brand saw a 20% increase in total sales on the back of the new bike, and the Scrambler outsold Ducati’s next most popular model by more than two to one.
Soon the company began rolling out spinoffs of the original 803cc Scrambler in other displacements, including both the Scrambler 1100 and the Scrambler 400, also known as the Sixty2. The “Sixty2” name is a tribute to the first year of production of the original Ducati 250 Scrambler, 1962. The 399cc Sixty2 promised to be a lighter machine slightly closer in size and weight to the original single-cylinder Scramblers of the 1960s.
While the 400 is no more a serious off-roader than its larger siblings (or the original Ducati Scramblers), it’s perfect for the urban jungle:
“In many ways it’s the perfect city bike, more so than its larger sibling. It’s light, the weight is planted low, and the wide bars are ideal for navigating through heavy traffic. The 400cc engine is more than enough through town and with a confidence inspiring flat torque curve…” –Visordown
Recently we heard from Nicolás “Nico” Gómez Acuña of Mexico City’s Hardheads Motostudio, a workshop founded in 2020 that specializes in handcrafted builds in a variety of styles. Nico and team were given the opportunity to transform a 2018 Sixty6 for a client and opted for a more road-oriented preparation perfect for the concrete kingdom of Mexico City and beyond:
“We aimed to create a more Street-Racer-oriented concept, designed for daily use on highways while pushing the engine to its limits.”
For an upgraded undercarriage, the Hardheads team looked to the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, swapping out the traditional OEM forks with the higher-spec inverted WP front end from the Swedish machine, along with the Husky’s 17-inch spoke wheels.
Out back, a custom YSS rear shock designed specifically for the Ducati raises the rear end incrementally for a slightly more aggressive stance and geometry, especially when combined with the installation of slightly lower handlebars.
Above that new rear suspension hovers a hand-made fiberglass tail section and bespoke seat, both crafted as one-offs for this build. Other bodywork highlights include a custom bellypan, modified OEM fenders, and a full custom paint job whose color palette the customer carefully selected himself.
Another signature element of “HH14” is the hand-crafted stainless 2-inch undertail exhaust, which not only looks the business, but accentuates the howl of that middleweight L-twin — a sound that sets the Duc apart from the single-cylinders and parallel-twins common in this displacement class.
All in all, this is one very special Scrambler 400, and it makes the perfect companion for the streets of the Mexican capital:
“The bike features a slightly more aggressive stance, achieved by raising the rear section and installing a lower handlebar. This setup makes it perfect for weaving through city traffic in a bustling metropolis like Mexico City. Its striking look and distinct sound ensure it never goes unnoticed.”
Congrats to Nico and team for a fine build on this 399cc twin, and we look forward to seeing more of the custom that roll out of their shop. Below is our full interview with Nico about the build, more photos, and a build sheet of the modifications.
“HH14” Ducati Sixty2 Custom: Builder Interview
• Please tell us a bit about yourself, your history with motorcycles, and your workshop.
Hardheads Motostudio is a motorcycle customization workshop based in Mexico City, specializing in high-quality, handcrafted builds for various iconic brands like Royal Enfield, BMW, Ducati, Yamaha and more. Founded in 2020, the studio is driven by a passion for two-wheeled artistry and a commitment to creating unique motorcycles, including Cafe Racers, Scramblers, and Flat Trackers.
Hardheads has achieved significant recognition, such as being featured in prestigious events like Wheels & Waves in France and earning titles like “Bike of the Month” in international publications. Our projects often blend functionality with bold design, showcasing meticulous attention to detail and innovative craftsmanship. With clients across continents, Hardheads embodies a global love for custom motorcycles while maintaining its Mexican roots.
• What’s the make, model, and year of the donor bike?
2018 Ducati Scrambler 399cc Sixty2.
• Why was the bike built?
This 2018 Ducati Scrambler 399cc Sixty2, designed by Hardheads Motostudio, is the first of its kind modified in Mexico for a customization contest, with a total of 250 hours dedicated to transforming every aspect of the bike. This project takes the Ducati to a whole new level, integrating high-quality components and an exclusive design that blends the iconic Sixty2 style with a more racing-inspired look.
• What was the design concept and what influenced the build?
We aimed to create a more Street-Racer-oriented concept, designed for daily use on highways while pushing the engine to its limits. While retaining the essence of a scrambler, we introduced modifications like upgraded suspensions, a lower bellypan, and a new exhaust system to align with the performance and aesthetic goals of the build.
• What custom work was done?
Suspension:
Front: Fully replaced with an inverted WP suspension from a Husqvarna Svartpilen 401
Rear: YSS suspension specifically designed for Ducati, raising the rear end for a horizontal seating position that improves posture and control.
Tires:
Front: 17-inch with 110/80 specifications.
Rear: 17-inch with 160/60 specifications.
The spoke wheels were sourced from a Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, adding a distinctive touch and enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
Aesthetic and Functional Modifications:
Full Paintwork: A completely custom paint job that highlights the bike’s natural curves. The color palette was carefully selected by the owner to reflect their unique personality.
Custom Fiberglass Tail Section: Tailored to perfection, featuring a bespoke seat that combines comfort and style, seamlessly fitting the overall design of the bike.
Handcrafted Exhaust System: Custom-made from 2-inch stainless steel, with handcrafted 2.5-inch tips. Positioned under the seat, it delivers a deep sound and an exclusive look. The thermal coating ensures efficiency and adds a premium finish.
Dbkillers: Installed to balance powerful sound with noise regulation.
Oil Cover and Belly Pan: The lower belly pan not only enhances aerodynamics but also stylizes the design, emphasizing the bike’s racing aesthetic.
Low Handlebar: Adjusted to promote a sporty posture for better control and an aggressive riding style.
Modified Fenders: Provide greater protection without compromising the design.
Rear Footpeg Trimming: Designed for a single rider, eliminating the need for passenger footpegs.
This Ducati HH14 is a testament to the dedication and passion for motorcycle customization.
• Can you tell us what it’s like to ride this bike?
The bike features a slightly more aggressive stance, achieved by raising the rear section and installing a lower handlebar. This setup makes it perfect for weaving through city traffic in a bustling metropolis like Mexico City. Its striking look and distinct sound ensure it never goes unnoticed.
• Was there anything done during this build that you are particularly proud of?
The suspension and wheel swap was one of the most exciting aspects of this build, as it involved adapting components from a Svartpilen 401, pushing the boundaries of compatibility and innovation. The exhaust system presented a unique challenge, requiring multiple days of meticulous work and two complete redesigns due to the lack of precedent for such a project.
However, the true highlight was the handcrafted tail section and seat, which defined the bike’s striking aesthetic, alongside a custom paint job that exudes uniqueness without being overly flashy. These elements together create a motorcycle that stands apart for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.
• Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
We would like to start by thanking the owner of the bike, who fully trusted us with every aspect of the proposal, handing over an idea and receiving something that exceeded their expectations. Of course, our gratitude extends to the global custom community, whose continuous support, sharing, and encouragement inspire us with every project. Most importantly, we want to thank everyone who is part of the Hardheads Motostudio team. Their unmatched passion and commitment to crafting such unique motorcycles are what make our work so special.
Follow the Builder
Web: hardheadsmotos.com
Instagram: @hardheadsmotos
Facebook: Hardheads Motos
Clever, but needs a few adjustments. What’s with that cream-colored thing wrapped around the exhaust pipe? Very distracting, just pull off the belly pan, the angle is wrong anyway. Next the seat and the tank need to align better, and the paintjob needs to line up with it too. I like the idea, but the bike needs a little more finishing.