Buell’s tempestuous history is sprinkled with moments of sheer motorcycling brilliance. And the XB series of the early 2000s ranks high on the American motorcycle company’s list of greatest hits.
The Buell XB had tongues wagging for an array of reasons when it first hit the scene. Not only did the XB’s fuel-in-frame design go on to be a Buell hallmark, but the bike also used an oil-bearing swingarm, perimeter front disc brake, and compact underslung exhaust system. All this in an uncompromising streetfighter package powered by an H-D Sportster powerplant.

The 2008-model Buell XB12S Lightning even featured translucent bodywork, offering a peek at its special downdraught air intake through the faux tank cover. But that aesthetic was a little too early-2000s for the owner of this Buell XB12S?which is why he entrusted it to Steven Lucas for a makeover. Based in the Quiberon peninsula in Western France, Steven works as a furniture maker, welder-for-hire, and custom motorcycle builder, all under the banner of Matao. His approach on this project was simple; keep all the details that make the Buell XB12S special, but tighten it up visually.

Steven started by denuding the Buell of all of its bodywork, save for its front fender and rear hugger. Next, he unbolted its blocky subframe, replacing it with a handmade tubular steel unit. A custom seat sits up top, built on a carbon fiber pan, and upholstered in luxurious Alcantara by La Sellerie Fleury.
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