The Honda NX650 Dominator found a lukewarm reception in the U.S. and was discontinued here after just two years. Perhaps we just didn’t understand the appeal of the streety dual-sport. Across the pond the NX lasted 13 years and was deemed a sturdy machine for commuting and the occasional foray on country roads. Its reasonable price and grunty, bullet-proof, 644cc single also made it a favorite of motorcycle couriers.
The Raptor Vision
Turning a drab Dominator into a riveting Raptor is a story born in Italy. Marco Matteucci’s NX650 build started as a budget-minded project but took on a life of its own. His creativity and vision, honed by a background in photography and graphic design, led him to create one tasteful part after another. When finished, the affordable dual-sport had become a functional masterpiece.
NX650 Prepped for Dirt
With an eye to off-pavement performance, Matteucci ditched the NX650’s unimpressive front suspension. In its place went the much more capable triple clamps and inverted forks from a Honda CRF 450. Better handling means faster speeds, so he bolted up a 320-millimeter front disc and a four-piston caliper to grab it. A new Brembo master cylinder topped off the braking upgrade.
Next up for the NX650 Raptor were fuel to go the distances that adventures take us and lighting to show the way. Matteucci ballooned the Raptor’s fuel capacity from 3.4 gallons to an expedition-capable 6.1 by fitting an Acerbis tank. His choice for illuminating the gloaming was a round Koso LED model protected by a metal ring and a stout grille. A pair of spot lights help fill in the shadows.
Cut, Hammer, Drill, Weld
The Raptor’s new metal work is apparent in several places. Crash bars wrap around the motor, custom side panels blend with the tank, and a skid pan protects the engine from flying rocks. Up front are one-off fork guards necessary for the inverted forks. For the rear, Matteucci created a box-like piece to house the LED taillight and twin vented shields for the dual-exhaust mufflers. As a bonus, these are also ready to accept a set of Mosko Moto luggage. Finally, the stock chain guard made way for another Matteucci custom piece.
Raptor Amenities
The view from the Raptor’s cockpit changed radically with this build, with emphasis on simplicity. The only real instrument is Motogadget’s compact Motoscope Mini. Safely ensconced in its custom aluminum mount, the Mini’s single task is to read out current speed. Perched above that is a stout smartphone mount. For wind protection, Matteucci chose a dark, curved screen up front and Circuit hand protectors. Heated grips round out the hand comfort package, while a new one-off seat pads the derriere.
NX650 Single Gets Some Love
When it came to the engine, Matteucci made few changes. Seeking a bit more crack in his whip he gave the NX650 mill a Keihin FCR carburetor and modified the air box for better fueling. Spent gasses exit via new under seat plumbing connecting the twin headers with upgraded mufflers. In his spare time Matteucci replaced aging rubber parts and built a new wiring harness. Knobby Continental TKC-80 tires give the Raptor a menacing look, as if it’s seeking out its next meal.
The Raptor Wow Factor
Judiciously applied gold paint picks up the anodized fork color and shows off other key areas like the engine, side cases, and rims. A little gold goes a long way, and Matteucci applied it in perfect balance. Kudos to him for highlighting “Honda” on the case covers and tank rather than keeping the Raptor’s roots anonymous.
It’s clear that a master has been at work here. Makes us wonder what’s happening today at Matteucci Garage.
Read more: Swedish Urban G/S
Images: Matteucci Garage
Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.
