How about a small introduction of yourself to the readers of Supermoto Central?
My name is Simon Dabadie, I'm 25 years old and I come from France. I am a kind of mixture of engineering, design and motorcycling. I’ve worked in several industries (furniture design, 3D printing and 3D Design). When I still was a student, I contacted several custom builders to help them to visualize their future build, by using the 3D technologies and integrating the 3D modeling into the creative process.
This is how Dab Design was born. I wanted to be able to test what-if scenarios with bikes or parts in 3D, helping me to validate plans and identify any problem with design quality. So I decided to create Dab Design directly after the end of my
engineering and design studies because I wanted to mix my skills with my passion for motorcycles. I never wanted a job where I can’t express myself at 100% so I took the bet to be my own boss.
How did you get into supermoto and what do you find so great about it?
My designs are inspired by the enduro and supermoto universe because I was always attracted by those bikes. Most enduro and supermoto bikes are singles, the advantages are simplicity, narrowness (the bike is one cylinder wide), steady power delivery, lightness. The main reasons I am attracted to supermoto are emotive issues associated with the riding position, noise, vibration and pure style. 
When and how did the idea for this project originated? What’s was the base for your project?
At the beginning of 2016, I decided to start an internal project which was building the first full Dab Design build: the LM-0. The objective of the build was to demonstrate the power of the alliance of new technology and the garage craftsmanship. Due to the success of this prototype version, I have launched a limited edition of 10 unique pieces of this motorcycle, made on demand, configured with the client virtually and then made in France (Bayonne) with the greatest care.
Can you tell us in short how the build went? Did you have any big problems or did it all went smooth?
The LM#1 went pretty well because I already made a prototype before (the LM-0).
The building quality has been increased compared to the LM-0 (prototype version) and thanks to this prototype I was able to correct some little imperfections. One of the most exclusive characteristic of the LM-0 is its bespoke composite bodywork (natural flax fiber).
To do that, I have first 3D designed the tank, fender and plate on my computer, and once I got the right shape, I have directly 3D printed the mold which will be used to make the fiber parts. This is quite a innovation in term of manufacturing process because traditional molds are very expensive and are dedicated to big series of parts, mass-manufacturing. Flax fiber has good mechanical characteristics but it gives mostly a beautiful texture.
If you look at the front plate, when the lights are off it looks like a classic number plate. But when you turn the lights and the turn signals on, the light of LEDs strip passes through the lin fiber and gives a futuristic and minimalist touch.
I also designed a range of custom parts for the LM: CNC machined upper triple tree which integrates the Motogadget speedo, CNC machined gascap with the client logo engraved, spacers to replace the mechanical sensor of the stock speedometer on the front wheel, 3D printed flexible grips with the customer logo engraved.
What do you use your bike for? Do you ride it on the street or just take it to the track once in a while?
It's up to my customers ... But I would love to see my bikes on the track!
Is this your first supermoto project or did you also build other supermoto bikes?
It's the first one ! Before I was more focused on scrambler bikes and I finally had the opportunity to build the LM#1 and I love it.
Do you have any plans for another supermoto project in the future?
The LM#1 is the first beast of the limited edition (10 bikes only), each model has to be unique and is configured in 3D with the customer during the design stage to match his needs, so he can basically configure it with your colors, textures, parts of his choice.
I can already tell you that there will have another supermoto bike and it will be even crazier.
Have you got any tips or advice for people that want to start a project like this?
Position, driveability and a good design are a key points if you want to enjoy your ride and I would recommend not to make compromises on any of those aspects. Be patient, thoughful and your bike will not disappoint.
Dab Design still has a few of these limited editions available. For more info check www.dabdesign.fr
Video slideshow
