Last month we kicked off our Buell 1125CR build with a Jardine carbon fiber RT5 slip-on and a ProTune3 fueling computer. The combo unlocked horsepower from idle to redline and made for an exhaust note that's straight nasty.
With power on lock the next order of business was to get the bike looking as wicked as it sounds. While custom paint would be ideal, we're trying to keep costs down and show an alternative- so vinyl graphics were just the ticket.
A call to FLU Designs netted us various graphic options. After kicking around some ideas we decided to custom design our own set. With a few waves of the mouse we expanded on FLU's initial ideas to create our final design.
We decided to draw from the good old days of the Harley XR750/1200 racers and the VR1000 superbike for inspiration. With the orange and black theme in full swing we added modern touches to give some extra spice. And since Buell is sadly no longer operating, we paid homage to Erik Buell and his sickest bike to date with the "Last of the Breed" ode.
When the graphics arrived we gave the 1125 a good wipedown and got to business. Although the install wasn't necessarily difficult for a couple of rookies, it did take a bit of trial and error to learn how the vinyl would properly lay. We'd suggest reserving three hours to make it all right.
Upon completion of the graphics kit the 1125CR took on an aggressive new persona. Instead of a stealth monster the new beast is loud and proud. But all is not finished; the orange graphics compliment the red accents and brake caliper like oil does water. They ain't working so we'll address those issues next month as we continue down the road to a better Buell.