How a Hitchcox Motorcycles Exhaust Transformed Midlife Moto Garage's Triumph RS Build
Midlife Moto Garage on Building the Ultimate Triumph RS with a Hitchcox Exhaust
Some builds are about adding parts. This one is about adding purpose. When we connected with the rider behind Midlife Moto Garage, it was clear from the first message that he approaches motorcycle building the way most people approach fine craft, with intention, patience, and an eye for detail that most riders only dream of.
Here's his story, in his own words.
The Vision: Building an RS-Level Triumph From the Ground Up
Every great build starts with a concept. For this rider, the goal was clear from the outset. Create something that felt genuinely elevated, not just modified.
"I wanted an exhaust that wholly matched the concept of a 'RS'-level bike from Triumph, not just louder or lighter, but something that complimented the character of the bike. The Hitchcox system stood out because it's unapologetically raw: pie-cut titanium, no mufflers, and a design that looks more like metal artwork than a traditional exhaust. It felt like the right match for a build that's meant to be visceral and mechanical. The incredible weight savings (over 20lbs!!!) was an added bonus!"
The Bike: A Platform Built for Craft
Before a single bolt was changed, this Triumph was already something special. But for a builder with this level of attention to detail, that was just the starting point.
"The attention to detail and craftsmanship. Everything feels elevated, from the way the bike is finished to how the components work together. It's the kind of bike where you keep noticing small details the more time you spend with it, and that level of thought and build quality makes it feel special every time you ride it. It is literally the perfect platform to receive one of your exhausts!"
The Transformation: What the Hitchcox Motorcycles Exhaust Actually Did
A new exhaust can change the sound. A great exhaust changes the entire personality of the machine. This is what happened here.
"It completely transformed the personality of the bike! Throttle response feels sharper, the bike feels more alive, and the sound is aggressive without being annoying. It doesn't just make noise, it communicates what the engine is doing. Even at idle, it has presence. I guess you could say that your exhaust removed the proverbial sheep's clothing from the wolf."
The Moment: That First Start
Ask any builder and they'll tell you, there's one moment in every build that makes it all worth it. For this rider, it came before he'd even turned a wheel.
"The first start after the install really stands out. Hearing it fire up for the first time was one of those moments where you just stop and grin from ear to ear like a child, it sounded exactly like I hoped it would. I haven't been able to get out for a proper ride yet due to weather, but even that first start confirmed I made the right choice. It set the tone for the entire build!"
Why Hitchcox Motorcycles: Built by Riders, for Riders
There are plenty of exhaust options out there. What made Hitchcox Motorcycles stand out wasn't just the product, it was what the product represents.
"The focus on craftsmanship, down to the laser-etched logos. Nothing feels mass-produced or designed to a price point. The parts feel designed and built by people who actually ride and care about how a bike feels, not just how it performs on paper. There's a strong sense of identity in what you build and as I get older, I have come to appreciate that much more than spec sheets and dyno plots."
What's Next: A Build With No Shortcuts
This isn't a build chasing a finished line. It's an ongoing conversation between rider and machine, and the next chapters are already planned.
"The build will continue to focus on ergonomics, aesthetics, and rider connection, refining how the bike fits and feels. I'm aiming for a cohesive, purposeful machine rather than a checklist of mods, and everything going forward will be done with that same mindset. Next up is an Ohlins steering damper, followed by some painting and powdercoating. There is so much more to do!"
Our favourite photo:
Follow the Build
If this has got you inspired, you can follow the full journey over at Midlife Moto Garage:
📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@midlifemotogarage
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/midlifemotogarage
Interested in building your own Triumph to this standard? Browse the Hitchcox Motorcycles exhaust range and get in touch, we'd love to be part of your build.
