Most folks agree that the Triumph Speed Triple is one of the best ‘naked’ bikes you can buy. But there’s always someone, somewhere, who wants to improve on perfection.

That’s where companies like Vilner come in. Best known for its custom cars and a client list full of Russian oligarchs, Vilner occasionally turns its hand to custom motorcycles. And this is the latest creation from the Bulgarian company, a 1050 Speed Triple called ‘Bulldog.’

The mechanicals of the bike have wisely been left alone. (With over 130 bhp and a top speed nudging 150 mph, the stock Speed Triple is not short of performance.) But Vilner has gone to town on the aesthetics, replacing the signature twin lamps with a huge single unit and covering the bike in a swathe of top-grade leather.

The wheels are swapped out for lightweight OZ Racing items, shod with Metzeler Racetec K3 tires. New mirrors sit under the handlebars, and the exhaust system has been powder-coated black. Leather sweeps down the black engine side panels, with a contrasting gold ‘scoop’ wrapping around the downpipes.

It’s a far cry from a Bonneville with a Brat-style seat and clip-ons, but it hits the spot for well-heeled Eastern Europeans. And the black-and-gold color scheme does look rather fetching.

Head over to the Vilner Custom website to see more of the Sofia-based company’s work.

PS: Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more motorcycle images

How long does it take to create a custom motorcycle? If a bike is commissioned from a builder, it’s usually constructed over several weeks. But most customs take months or even years: they’re gradually modified by their owners, drifting away from stock spec and into something more individual.

Like this Triumph Bonneville 900 from the west coast of the USA, nicknamed ‘The Inlander’. Over the years, it’s been subtly upgraded in all areas, from performance to looks. (Most recently it’s been worked on by Deus, which explains the high quality of finish.) The owner is a huge motorcycle aficionado, and the Bonneville is his favorite bike and everyday ride.

According to Deus, “the modifications happened bit by bit—first the motor, then the airbox removal, then the hand-made front and rear fenders, then the narrowed, hand-made seat pan with custom leather seat and matching bags—each change carefully considered.”

The Bonneville now has the looks to match its power: the engine is running a big bore kit, plus forged high compression pistons, high lift cams, a four-angle valve job, and FCR carburetion.

Deus finished the job off with a two-into-one exhaust, compact gauges, and new paint. And it’s a cracker. Head over to the Deus USA website for more quality images.

PS: Are you on Facebook? Start folowing us to get photos right to your wall.

PS: Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more motorcycle images