Custom Triumph Manta 'E' 400: Built in Memory by Stockwell Design

Driven by 1970s Nostalgia

The inspiration for this custom Scrambler stems from a cherished centrepiece of family history: the client's father's 1970s Opel Manta.

In its heyday, the Manta was Opel's bold answer and rival to the ever-popular Ford Capri. It was a vehicle defined by striking lines, retro attitude and unforgettable road presence. A car that left an indelible mark on a son growing up in its passenger seat.

Taking direct cues from that iconic machine, Stockwell Design set out to translate the Manta's distinctive character onto a modern two-wheeled canvas.
 

Subtlety, Signature & Custom Paintwork

The magic of the custom paintwork lies in its depth. The more closely you look, the more subtle design cues reveal themselves, tying the motorcycle directly to the lines and character of the classic car.

The fuel tank wears a striking Amber and Denim Black finish. The matte Denim Black across the top of the tank is a direct nod to the Opel Manta's iconic vinyl roof covering, while the sharp black band running along the lower section mirrors the distinctive black bodywork trim of the 1970s original.

Custom Manta 400 logos and limited-edition Manta Ray graphics anchor the bodywork. Flowing around the Manta Ray logos are intricate topography lines, a design detail that pays homage to the adventurous nature of the Scrambler platform while visually mimicking the gentle ocean ripples left in the wake of a gliding Manta Ray.

Gracing the left side of the motorcycle is a motorsport-inspired number board featuring '41', a subtle yet meaningful detail honouring the birth year of the client's father.

Perhaps the most personal detail is the initial 'E', digitally scanned directly from his father's handwritten signature and incorporated into the design, ensuring his presence is woven into the very fabric of the machine.

Completing the tribute is a bespoke Alcantara saddle, featuring specialised stitching inspired directly by the plush interior of his father's beloved car.

Mean, Aggressive & Uncluttered

While the build honours a warm memory, the client wanted the motorcycle's stance to feel sharp, dark and purposeful. Stockwell Design delivered an aggressive, blacked-out aesthetic paired with upgraded hardware.

Every piece of brightwork across the chassis received a Black Cerakote ceramic finish, including the exhaust headers and the high-performance S&S Performance slip-on exhaust, creating a cohesive, understated appearance.

The factory handlebars were replaced with Speed 400 bars and risers, fitted with sleek Motone bar-end mirrors for a clean, minimal cockpit. At the rear, a tail tidy and ultra-compact LED turn signals sharpen the motorcycle's silhouette, creating an uncluttered tail section.

The front fork internals were reworked for sharper feedback, paired with a premium Öhlins TR420 rear shock to elevate ride quality and handling.

Completing the build's purposeful stance is a set of aggressive Continental TKC80 dual-sport tyres, reinforcing the Scrambler's adventurous character and dual-purpose capability.

Riding On & Heartfelt Thanks

Creating a tribute motorcycle requires translating raw emotion into paint, metal, and leather. The team at Stockwell Design worked closely with the client to ensure every curve, note from the S&S exhaust, and custom texture reflected the warmth of a son’s memory and the timeless cool of his father’s favorite ride.

For our client, twisting the throttle on this custom 400XC is more than just starting a ride, it’s a connection across generations. It serves as a reminder that while people may pass on, the passion, memories, and style they passed down remain very much alive.

From all of us at Stockwell Design and Triumph London, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our client for granting us the privilege to be part of this incredibly special build. This project is one our entire team enjoyed immensely.The moment of the reveal and handing over the keys was deeply joyous and emotional for everyone in the shop, and a reminder of why we do what we do. We wish him endless meaningful miles ahead in his father's honor.

Inspired to Create Your Own Custom?

Every Stockwell Design motorcycle begins with a vision. Whether inspired by a cherished memory, a lifelong passion or simply the desire to create something truly individual, our team can help bring your ideas to life.

Explore the Stockwell Design gallery for inspiration or discuss your own bespoke project with Charlie Stockwell below.