Inspired by 60s and 70s aesthetics, artist Tyler Richardson designed his very own Streetdog.

Words by Mathew Joubert. Photos by Andrie Diomidov.

In the vibrant world of custom design, few collaborations stand out like the one between FTN Motion and Tyler Richardson of Helmart. This collaboration has given birth to an extraordinary version of the FTN Motion Streetdog, showcasing a remarkable blend of retro aesthetics and modern electric technology.

Pushing the boundaries of creativity

The story behind this custom-painted Streetdog begins with Tyler Richardson, the motorsports artist behind Helmart, a renowned name in custom racing helmet design. Tyler's passion for both art and motorcycles led him to the FTN Motion Streetdog, which he first encountered in 2021. Enthralled by its design and potential, Tyler envisioned a project that would marry the classic charm of café racers with the sleek innovations of electric vehicles.

Retro charm meets modern technology

Tyler's artistic vision for the Streetdog is a testament to his skill and dedication. The bike is adorned with a striking paint scheme that features shimmering metal flake silver, vibrant candy colors, deep metallic orange pearl, and fluorescent accents. This color palette not only highlights the bike's retro influences but also integrates seamlessly with its modern electric design.

Craft recognises craft

Every element of this custom Streetdog reflects Tyler's meticulous attention to detail. Matching Bell Bullitt helmets were custom-painted to complement the bike, complete with retro orange gradient visors and custom orange hardware. The headlight features a sunset fade with a matte/gloss X detail, adding a subtle nod to café racer style. Even Tyler’s Chihuahua, Chip, got in on the action with his own custom-painted helmet, demonstrating the level of personalization and care that went into this project.

Additional custom touches include painted aero-discs on the wheels and orange lettering on the tires, all designed to enhance the bike’s distinctive appearance and cohesive theme.

Impressive specifications

Beneath its custom exterior, the Streetdog boasts impressive technical features. It is equipped with a 3kW motor, which can be upgraded to 5kW via a software update, and a removable 2.9 kWh battery providing a range of 80-100 km. Classified as a moped in New Zealand, the Streetdog can be ridden with a car license, making it a versatile option for both daily commuting and leisurely rides. Notable features include an NFC key tag for ignition, a touchscreen display, and 30 litres of lockable storage with USB charging capabilities.

Tyler Richardson’s custom Streetdog is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a canvas that illustrates the intersection of artistic vision and technological innovation. This project not only highlights Tyler's exceptional skill as a custom painter but also underscores the unique spirit of the FTN Motion Streetdog, blending classic design with modern functionality.