The results are in — and Brazil has just ridden off with the big win in the Triumph Originals 2025 custom build competition. After months of anticipation, eight jaw-dropping Bonneville customs, and a nail-biting vote, it was Teydi Deguchi from Shibuya Garage in São Paulo who took the top spot with his moody café racer masterpiece, “Gaijin”.
Based on a Triumph Speed Twin 1200, Gaijin isn’t just a bike — it’s a work of art. From the hand-shaped, tapered, single seat and sleek tail section that looks fast even when the bike’s parked, to the tank’s crisp crease lines, and that matte black paint job that catches the light just right and every detail screams class and craftsmanship. And the judges weren’t the only ones impressed — public voters backed it all the way.
The Triumph Originals Challenge
For the uninitiated, Triumph Originals is no ordinary bike show. It’s a global challenge where Triumph markets around the world team up with top local custom builders to create a one-off Bonneville inspired by the theme: Icons of British Originality.
Think James Bond suave meets punk rock edge. The idea is simple: take any model from the Bonneville family, pour in creativity, skill, and cultural influence, and produce something truly original. Builds are judged on Iconic Style, British Originality, Creativity & Innovation, and Craftsmanship — so no pressure, right?
This year’s competitors were:
- Brazil – Shibuya Garage
- Canada – Motos Illimitées
- France – FCR Original
- Italy – South Garage Motor Co
- Mexico – Aftercycles
- Thailand – The Zeus Custom
- UK – Stockwell Design
- USA – Triumph Indianapolis
Why Gaijin Stood Out
Brazil’s entry ticked every box. It wasn’t just about looking good — it had soul. Deguchi blended classic café racer DNA with subtle Japanese-inspired detailing, paying homage to cultural crossovers while keeping the heart of a British icon beating strong.
From concept sketches to the final build, it nailed the brief: bold but refined, modern yet timeless, unmistakably Triumph.
A Bonneville Legacy That Keeps Giving
The Bonneville has been inspiring custom builders since the café racer days of the ’60s. Whether stripped-down for speed or dressed-up for style, it’s always been a blank canvas for creativity. And with modern engineering under the skin, today’s Bonnevilles keep that legacy alive while being more rideable than ever.
If Gaijin has got your imagination firing, maybe it’s time to grab your own Modern Classic and put your stamp on it. Who knows? Next year, it could be your build we’re talking about.
