Dakota, has shared his first chopper build with us, and it’s a fascinating blend of ingenuity and resourcefulness.
A Labor of Love
Dakota’s 1980 Yamaha XS650 is no ordinary bike. It stands for the personal touches that make it a true one-of-a-kind machine. “This is my first chopper build/rat bike,” Dakota tells us. “It’s a great bar hopper and a great conversational piece.”
The Build
The journey began with a heavily raked-out frame that Dakota decided to modify. “When I got it, the frame was raked out massively, so I cut and re-welded the neck with a closer gap from forks to frame,” he explains. This adjustment was crucial in achieving the bike’s current stance and rideability.
The bike is powered by a two-into-one carb setup, feeding the engine with the necessary fuel mix to keep it roaring. An old Harley Pentue tank adds a touch of vintage charm, while the custom-built seat and sissy bar highlight Dakota’s craftsmanship.
Aesthetic Choices
One of the most striking features of Dakota’s XS650 is its color scheme. “I did a purple frame with a glossy black,” he says. “With purple decal pinstripes.” The combination of these colors gives the bike a distinctive look that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes. Dakota also mentions his ongoing quest to find someone local to add real pinstriping, which would be the cherry on top of an already eye-catching build.
Resourceful Engineering
What sets Dakota’s build apart is his resourceful use of materials. “It was a build on a budget for sure,” he admits. “A lot of what you see on the bike was stuff I had around the shop.” This includes F-150 wheel studs with spark plug boots as rubber grips for the shifter lever and rear brake, a sissy bar mount made from a shelf bracket, and a license plate mount fashioned from a cut-up metal shelf. Even the brake light is a trail light, showcasing Dakota’s creativity in repurposing everyday items.
The Ride
For Dakota, this bike is more than just a project; it’s a joy to ride. “I really enjoy riding it,” he says. “And can’t wait to build another one!” His enthusiasm is palpable, and it’s clear that this won’t be his last foray into the world of custom motorcycle building.
Dakota’s Yamaha XS650 is a testament to what can be achieved with a bit of creativity, resourcefulness, and a lot of passion. It’s a build that not only serves as a functional mode of transportation but also as a rolling piece of art and a conversation starter. We can’t wait to see what Dakota comes up with next.
