The Outsider Who Plays by His Own Rules
People often compare Daryl Villanueva to a musical icon. For good reason, he works outside the system. Like Frank Zappa, he experiments freely. Instead of following trends, he follows instinct.
At the same time, Daryl leads Bandit9 with full independence. Rather than relying on convention, he lets imagination guide every decision. As a result, his small, close-knit team builds motorcycles where ideas lead. Only then do rules follow.
If names were interchangeable, they could borrow Zappa’s Mothers of Invention. However, the world knows them simply as Bandit9.
From Passion to Global Recognition
That fierce independence shapes Bandit9’s reputation. At the same time, it divides opinion. On one hand, some celebrate the work. On the other, others find it challenging. Either way, it never goes unnoticed.
What began as a passion project soon gained attention. First, elite collectors took notice. Then, museums followed. Eventually, major manufacturers joined in. As a result, Bandit9 built a body of work that constantly challenges expectations.
Their latest creation, Arthur II, continues that journey. This time, a client in Germany commissioned the build. Rather than starting over, the team revisited an earlier idea. Now, it evolves on the Royal Enfield 650 platform.
A Longstanding Relationship with Royal Enfield
Bandit9 already shares history with Royal Enfield. Previously, the original Arthur used the brand’s 535 cc single-cylinder engine. Likewise, Merlin followed the same platform. In both cases, Daryl pushed design boundaries.
Then, in 2021, the partnership deepened. At that point, Royal Enfield approached Daryl directly. Instead of a one-off, the brand requested a transformation kit for the GT 650.
Designing Within New Limits
That project introduced new limits. First, the kit had to bolt on easily. Next, owners needed only basic tools. Finally, the bike had to return to stock without damage.
For Daryl, this marked a major shift. Normally, he builds fully hand-crafted, one-off machines. This time, he had to think in systems. Even so, he refused to dilute Bandit9’s design language.
A Natural Next Step
That experience proved invaluable. In particular, it revealed the strengths of Royal Enfield’s parallel-twin platform. At the same time, it offered insight into balance, proportion, and usability.
Because of that, Arthur II feels more informed. Rather than abandoning the past, it builds upon it. As a result, the motorcycle blends sculptural form with deeper understanding.
Evolution Without Compromise
In the end, Arthur II represents growth. Yet, it never loses character. Instead, it shows how an unconventional builder can adapt while staying true to his voice.
Ultimately, the bike feels like a natural progression. Above all, it proves that originality does not require rebellion—it requires clarity.
Arthur II
USD 26,990.00Business Information:
Open Weekdays 9AM – 6PM (GMT +7)
contact@bandit9motors.com
+84.82.301.0772