Alan Clark sent us pictures of his 1949 Triumph-framed Yamaha XS650. This ambitious and intricate build is currently in mid-construction in Alan’s garage, yet it already stands out as a unique amalgamation of vintage charm and modern ingenuity.
Alan Clark, a passionate motorcycle enthusiast from Australia, has taken on the challenge of merging the timeless elegance of a 1949 Triumph frame with the robust reliability of a Yamaha XS650 engine. The result? A bike that’s bound to turn heads and spark conversations wherever it goes.
“This is my 1949 Triumph framed XS650 build,” Alan shares. “The frame, though an original rigid frame, has been stretched and modified to accept the Yamaha engine.”
Indeed, the modifications are extensive and meticulously executed. Alan has fabricated custom bearing cups and fitted the frame with Sportster triples and legs of unknown origin, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the build. The front rim is sourced from a Yamaha 650 Special, while the rear features a 15″ Invader, typically seen on Harley-Davidsons. This eclectic mix of components speaks to Alan’s resourcefulness and creativity.
One of the standout features of this build is the innovative use of an alternator from a Honda Valkyrie, which is belt-driven off the crank. This not only showcases Alan’s technical prowess but also his ability to think outside the box. The bike also boasts a hand shift and clutch, adding to its vintage appeal and rider engagement.
At present, the motorcycle is in a mock-up stage, with an off-the-shelf seat, tank, and handlebars completing the current setup. However, Alan hints at potential changes: “The bike is still under construction, so who knows if these will remain?”
Despite being a work in progress, the bike is nearing completion and is due for inspection soon. Alan acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly with the stringent registration process for customized vehicles in Australia. “The registration process for customized vehicles is pretty difficult here in Australia, so still a few hoops to jump through,” he notes. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic and plans to be riding this stunning machine by late this year.
The three pictures Alan shared with us provide a tantalizing glimpse of his creation from different angles. The bold red tires immediately catch the eye, adding a vibrant contrast to the bike’s predominantly metallic and black palette. Each angle reveals a different aspect of the build, from the stretched frame to the intricate engine mounts, offering a comprehensive view of Alan’s craftsmanship.
