Triumph Motorcycles recently unveiled a stunning custom build named “Red Dust,” a neo-retro machine born from the brand’s Originals competition. This unique project, crafted by French garage FCR, pays homage to the iconic desert sleds of the 1960s, transforming Triumph’s most powerful Scrambler model into a capable off-road machine.

The Originals competition, launched in May, challenged seven custom garages from around the globe to reimagine Triumph’s current Scrambler lineup with a historical twist. The goal was to create builds that evoked a specific era that shaped the Scrambler’s legacy. FCR chose the top-tier Scrambler 1200 XE as their base, aiming to retain its core components while imbuing it with a vintage desert racing aesthetic.

While FCR hasn’t released official details on every modification, the visual changes are striking. The “Red Dust” name, likely inspired by the vibrant color adorning its fuel tank, hints at its desert-conquering aspirations. From the ground up, the bike retains its stock Scrambler wheels, but they are now fitted with aggressive, knobby tires, suggesting an eagerness to tackle challenging terrain.

To achieve a more purposeful and technical look, some of the Scrambler’s original bodywork, including various covers, has been removed. The front fender has also been repositioned, moving from its usual spot above the wheel to a more streamlined location beneath the headlight. The exhaust system has undergone a noticeable transformation, though information regarding its manufacturer or any potential performance enhancements remains undisclosed.

Further enhancing its custom appeal, the “Red Dust” features an array of aftermarket smaller components. The headlight, handlebars, and grips have all been swapped for new items. A closer inspection also reveals subtle hints of an altered suspension system, which likely modifies the bike’s overall stance and off-road capability.

The Triumph “Red Dust” is currently vying for victory in the Originals competition against impressive builds from Stockwell Design (UK), South Garage Motor (Italy), BVL Garage (China), Motos Illimitées (Canada), Tamarit (Spain), and Triumph Columbia River (USA). Public voting is underway and will continue until September 22. Following the public vote, a distinguished jury, including Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent, Steve McQueen’s grandson Chase, author Eric Hendricx, journalist Rolf Henniges, and customizer Satoshi, will deliberate to announce the ultimate winner of this year’s build-off.