In the world of custom motorcycles, few things are as impressive as a bike built with pure ingenuity and zero budget. Lee’s 1971 Yamaha XS650 bobber is a testament to resourcefulness, proving that passion and creativity can trump a fat wallet.
Pieced together entirely from salvaged parts, freebies, and sheer determination, this hardtail-inspired build is a raw, no-frills machine that commands respect.
The Build: Scrappy, Gritty, and Unapologetic
Starting with a free parts pile, Lee scavenged what he needed for his XS650 bobber before passing the leftovers to a friend working on a frame swap. Rather than opting for an off-the-shelf hardtail kit, the duo took a more hands-on approach.
“We set about it with the Sawzall,” Lee recalls. Using salvaged tubing, they cut, bent, and welded their way to a rigid rear end while cleverly retaining the swingarm for simplicity. Reinforced with welded gussets, the modified frame maintains structural integrity while giving the bike a tough, industrial stance.
The rest of the build follows the same thrifty ethos. The rear wheel and tire were scored for free, while the gas tank—another lucky find—complements the bike’s stripped-down aesthetic.
The seat, perhaps the most unconventional touch, was salvaged from an old exercise bike. “Hope to have this on the road real soon,” Lee says, and given the bike’s current form, it’s clear that this machine is built to ride, not just admire.
A Second Life for Discarded Parts
Lee’s resourcefulness doesn’t stop at the XS650. The last photo in his submission shows his XVS650, which also sports a seat pulled from an exercise bike—this one found at the dump. It’s a reminder that great custom bikes don’t always come from high-end shops; sometimes, they’re born from junkyard treasures and a willingness to think outside the box.
Final Thoughts
Lee’s XS650 bobber is a refreshing take on the custom scene, where overbuilt, big-budget bikes often dominate the spotlight. This build is raw, honest, and full of character—a true rider’s project. As Lee puts it, everything was done “without spending any money,” proving that with enough vision, even the most humble beginnings can lead to something extraordinary.
