There’s something magical about watching a classic motorcycle turn into something completely different. That’s exactly what happened when the talented builders at Candy Motorcycle Laboratory in Ebina, Japan got their hands on a Yamaha XS650. What came out of their workshop isn’t just another custom bike – it’s a rolling piece of art that embodies the spirit of old-school chopper culture.
The Foundation
The Yamaha XS650 is the Swiss Army knife of the motorcycle world. You’ll find these bikes in garages all over the globe being turned into everything from sleek cafe racers to wild choppers. There’s a reason for that – the XS650’s bulletproof Japanese reliability combined with its adaptable frame makes it the perfect canvas for builders.
This build caught our eye the moment we saw it. The Japanese builders didn’t just modify this bike – they reimagined what it could be.
Design
Walking around this chopper you’ll notice almost everything from the original Yamaha is gone. In its place is a stunning peanut-style fuel tank that commands attention from the center of the bike. The proportions are perfect not too small to look toy-like, but compact enough to look like a real chopper.
Behind the tank is a handmade seat that could have been lifted directly from the golden age of American choppers. It’s upheld by two chrome springs, which also add some form and old-school feel. It’s the sort of thing that distinguishes rented-from-the-video-store amateur builds from professional work.
Clever Engineering
Here’s where things get cool. What appears to be an oil tank under the seat is actually an electronics box. And because the XS650 is wet sump, they managed to use this beauty to house all the bike’s electrics. Genius.
The rear section has a hand-made fender wrapped in chrome, topped with a circular LED taillight that’s modern functionality with classic looks. A custom sissy bar reaches for the sky, completing the traditional chopper silhouette that never goes out of style.
Front End
The builders didn’t leave anything on the table in front of this chopper. They’ve got a springer fork doing its best to turn the dial up to 11 on the chopperometer. Matched with a drum brake and it’s a pairing that can only be described as authentic. The headlight is a yellow-tinted number up front, and sets a warm tone that suits the bike’s old-school styling.
The cockpit is elegant and straightforward. Peacocks of tall bars sweep high, stripped down to the essentials. A tiny speedo hidden up down on the left of the frame constitutes the only instrumentation, and why not, cause sometimes less is more, right?
Rolling on Character
The wheel setup is spot on. That 21-inch front and 16-inch rear delivers that chopper stance, and the vintage tires complete the look. These aren’t purely aesthetic they influence the way the bike sits, handles and looks on the road.
Engine Mods That Matter
And under the hood they concentrated on the two areas that count most toward performance and sound. The engine is finally free to breathe through velocity stacks. The exit strategy is provided by custom stainless steel wrapped in chrome exhaust pipes and gets the right sound and visual pop.
A Paint Job That Tells A Story
The color scheme on this bike is stunning. Green and orange dance across the tank and electronics box, separated by white pinstriping. It’s bold without being gaudy, complex without being chaotic. The rest of the bike is black, so these colors can shine.
Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Model | Yamaha XS650 |
| Engine | Air-cooled parallel-twin |
| Front Wheel | 21-inch with vintage tire |
| Rear Wheel | 16-inch with vintage tire |
| Front Brake | Traditional drum brake |
| Suspension | Springer fork front, custom rear shocks |
| Fuel Tank | Custom peanut-style |
| Exhaust | Handmade stainless steel with chrome wrap |
| Intake | Dual velocity stacks |
| Paint | Green/orange multi-pattern with white pinstriping |
Read more : Yamaha Offers 5-Year RSA for Your Peace of Mind
XS650 Chopper FAQs
Why XS650 for custom builds?
Japanese reliability and a simple design. Strong frame and engine, parts are affordable and available.
What’s the ride like with a Springer fork?
Springer forks give a unique ride with more vertical movement than conventional forks. Classic chopper looks but more maintenance and different handling.
Is this bike practical for daily riding?
Stunning to look at but built for style and weekend cruising not daily commuting. Riding position and suspension set up for looks not long distance comfort.
What makes this build special compared to other XS650 customs?
Craftsmanship is outstanding and attention to details is first class. From the way the electronics are cleverly stored to the well-proportioned styling, it all comes together.
Conclusion
This Yamaha XS650 chopper from Candy Motorcycle Laboratory proves custom building is alive and well. It’s not about the most powerful engine or latest technology – it’s about vision, craftsmanship and the guts to create something truly unique.
For anyone who loves motorcycle customization this build is everything that’s great about the hobby. It’s got soul, style and presence that stops traffic. Whether you’re a chopper fan or just someone who appreciates beautiful craftsmanship this XS650 reminds us why custom motorcycles still capture our imagination.
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