Here is Jason Howard’s 1981 Yamaha XS650, affectionately dubbed “Duckman’s not yet chopped XS650.”
Jason’s journey with his XS650 began with a simple yet profound realization: “This is my first bike (EVER!!!). I needed to learn to ride it before making it super cool.”
With this in mind, he approached his build with both caution and enthusiasm, ensuring that his initial modifications would enhance his riding experience while laying the groundwork for future customizations.
One of the first things Jason tackled was the bike’s aesthetics. “I spray bombed the tank and headlight bucket and added cool old school emblems,” he shared.
This DIY approach gave his XS650 a vintage flair, blending classic charm with a personal touch. The spray-painted tank and headlight bucket, adorned with retro emblems, stand out as a nod to the golden era of motorcycling.
Performance and sound were also on Jason’s mind. “I cut the pipes and a buddy welded on the turnouts. Sounds real nice,” he noted.
The modified exhaust system not only enhances the bike’s auditory appeal but also adds a raw, aggressive edge to its overall demeanor. To complement this, Jason made practical changes like ditching the front fender and adding new blinkers, giving the bike a cleaner, more streamlined look.
Lowering the front and rear suspension was another key modification. This subtle yet effective change improved the bike’s stance and handling, making it more responsive and visually striking.
Additionally, Jason added pod filters from Mikes XS, which not only boost performance but also contribute to the bike’s minimalist aesthetic.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Jason’s build is his experimentation with custom parts. “I have made some struts for it, but I haven’t put them on for good yet. I also made a cool kicker pedal for it,” he mentioned.
These custom touches reflect his hands-on approach and willingness to innovate, even as he continues to learn and refine his skills.
Looking ahead, Jason has ambitious plans for his XS650. “I plan on cutting the frame this winter,” he revealed. This significant step will undoubtedly transform his bike into a true chopper, embodying the spirit of freedom and individuality that defines the custom motorcycle culture.
His journey is far from over, and we can’t wait to see how his vision evolves.
Jason’s story is a powerful reminder of the joy and fulfillment that come from building and customizing motorcycles. His XS650 is not just a machine; it’s a canvas for creativity, a platform for learning, and a source of endless inspiration. “I get to see a lot of nice XS650’s almost every day. They give me lots of ideas of what I want to do with mine.
This site helps also,” he said, acknowledging the vibrant community that fuels his passion.
