My Triumph Bobber Build – Full Modification List & Setup

My Triumph Bobber Build – Full Modification List & Setup

I bought my Triumph Bobber in 2020 as a simple summer commuter. The plan was never to leave it stock — so I deliberately searched for the cheapest 2016 model I could find, knowing full well the real money would be spent on modifications.

It didn’t take long before the changes began.

Phase One – Cleaning Up the Basics

The first round of upgrades focused on refining the look and tightening up the overall feel of the bike:

  • Removal of the stock ape hanger bars

  • Fitted Triumph clip-ons

  • Blacked-out engine casings

  • Airbox delete

  • Cut-down front and rear fenders

The goal wasn’t to turn it into a show bike — just to make it feel sharper, lower, and more purposeful. Even in its early stages, the bike already felt like it had its own identity.

Learning to Fabricate – Building My Own Exhaust

As the build progressed, I wanted to start doing more work myself rather than just bolting parts on.

So I bought a cheap TIG welder, spent a few months learning how to weld, and eventually built my own custom exhaust system from scratch.

It wasn’t perfect first time, but it was one of the most rewarding parts of the build. There’s something special about riding a bike with parts you’ve physically made yourself.

Suspension, Controls & Lighting Upgrades

After a year of enjoying it in this form, I moved onto the finer details.

Front and rear lighting was upgraded to Kellermann Atto indicators, keeping everything minimal and clean.

Controls were upgraded with TEC brake and clutch levers, improving feel at the bars and adding a subtle custom touch.

Next came a second-hand Nitron rear shock, which completely transformed the back end. The improvement was so noticeable that it quickly exposed how soft the front suspension was.

So in went progressive front springs to balance the ride properly. The bike suddenly felt more composed and planted, especially under harder riding.

Wheels & The Rusty Spoke Problem

After running a 170 rear tyre for a couple of years, I ran into the common Triumph rusty spoke issue. From what I understand, the original spokes are chrome plated rather than stainless — and they don’t age particularly well.

A visit to DR Wheels in South Molton solved that.

The original hubs were retained, but rebuilt with:

  • Excel rims

  • Stainless steel spokes

The difference was huge. The lighter rims noticeably improved the way the bike handled. I now run a 180 rear wheel setup, paired with a gold chain and sprocket for good measure.

Headlight Conversion & Custom 3D Printed Bezel

To push the classic look further, I fitted a Triumph Scrambler headlight.

I then designed and 3D printed a custom bezel that houses the clocks inside the headlight shell, giving a cleaner, old-school Triumph appearance.

A big shout-out to Bobberchap on Etsy, who was a huge help with advice and guidance during this part of the build.

The bezel also incorporates a discreet built-in USB charger, keeping things practical without cluttering the bars.

This small change completely transformed the front end of the bike.

The Paint – 24 Carat Gold Leaf

Next came one of the best decisions I’ve made on the bike.

TJC Customs in Bristol absolutely knocked it out of the park with a custom 24 carat gold leaf tank paint job. It completely elevated the look of the bike.

If I’m honest, it’s probably the best money I’ve spent on the build.

The Big Step – Supercharging the Bobber

Then came the big decision.

After a call to TTS, the countdown began. It was a long wait — but worth every second.

I fitted the complete supercharger kit myself. Once installed, the bike went to R.E.P.S Motorcycles in Caldicot for a dyno session.

The result?

120 BHP.

And wow — what a difference. It pulls like a train.

I know what a lot of people think: “Why not just buy a sports bike?”

But for me, it’s not about outright speed. It’s about character. It’s about riding something that looks classic but has the punch of something far more aggressive.

The smiles per mile are worth it.

The Small Details

To complement everything else, I also fitted a lightweight lithium battery, shaving a bit more weight and improving starting reliability.

Since then, I’ve added some of my own 3D-printed parts to tidy up exposed areas and clean up the finishing touches. Small details make a big difference — especially when removing factory components like the airbox.

Is it a show winner?

Definitely not.

But I’d like to think it’s one of those bikes you see at a show and quietly think, “I wouldn’t mind taking that one home.”

It has the look of a classic, with all the modern refinements that make it genuinely enjoyable to ride.

And for that, we have to thank Triumph for creating such a versatile platform.

Modification Summary

Base Bike:
2016 Triumph Bobber

Performance:

  • TTS Supercharger kit

  • Dyno tuned to 120 BHP

  • Airbox delete

  • Custom TIG-welded exhaust

Suspension:

  • Nitron rear shock

  • Progressive front springs

Wheels & Drivetrain:

  • Excel rims

  • Stainless steel spokes

  • 180 rear tyre

  • Gold chain and sprocket

Controls & Lighting:

  • Kellermann Atto indicators (front & rear)

  • TEC brake and clutch levers

  • Triumph Scrambler headlight

Electrical & Details:

  • Custom 3D printed clock/bezel housing (with help from Bobberchap – Etsy)

  • Built-in USB charger

  • Lightweight lithium battery

Aesthetics:

  • Blacked engine casings

  • Cut-down fenders

  • 24 carat gold leaf tank by TJC Customs

 

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