Most successful custom builders are based in big cities. They need the client base, the close network of suppliers, and the buzz of a metropolis for inspiration. But one of the top workshops in France is based in the tiny medieval town of Chauvigny—tucked away in the middle of nowhere, about four hours south of Paris.
The geographic obscurity has not hampered the success of FCR Original in any way. Shop owner Sébastien Guillemot has just revamped his brand, moved into small-scale manufacture, and now sells a range of accessories too.
Custom builds are still at the core of the business though, and this zingy 2016 Scrambler is the latest to roll out of the shop. “It has the last of the 865 cc air/oil cooled engines,” says Sébastien.…