In the world of custom Yamaha XS650 builds, few frames carry the mystique of the Dutch Startwin softail—a rare 1980s chassis designed to cradle the iconic XS650 engine or select four-cylinder powerplants of the era.
Today, we’re spotlighting a standout machine from one of our community members: a blacked-out XS650 mounted in one of these elusive Startwin frames, a bike that blends vintage engineering with raw, mechanical charm.
A Frame with History
The Startwin softail frame is a relic of custom motorcycle history, produced in extremely limited numbers.
As ROB notes, “The frame was built in the ’80s and is very rare—not much left of them. It was made in a very small series to host the XS engine or some four-cylinders from the ’80s.”
This particular build preserves that legacy, showcasing the XS650’s adaptability while adding a distinctive dual-chain drivetrain for a unique mechanical presence.
Form Meets Function (With More to Come)
Cloaked in black, the bike exudes a no-nonsense attitude, its lines accentuated by the softail’s minimalist rear suspension. The engine, a well-tuned XS650 twin, delivers reliable performance.
“The engine runs very well,” ROB confirms, though he admits the aesthetics are still evolving. Upgrades are on the horizon, including a sissy bar for practicality (“for the luggage”) and a set of Shinko tires to refine the ride.
The most intriguing update? A planned patina refresh for the paint. Rather than a glossy restoration, this bike will wear its age with pride—a fitting choice for a machine built around a rare, nearly forgotten frame.
Two Wheels (and Three, Occasionally)
This XS650 isn’t ROB’s only ride—“It is my second ride beside the Triumph Rocket with a sidecar for the longer hauls together with my wife.” The contrast between the two machines speaks to a rider who appreciates both vintage minimalism and modern comfort. Yet, there’s something undeniably special about this Startwin-equipped XS650, a bike that rewards the rider with every twist of the throttle.
The Verdict
ROB’s build is a testament to the XS650’s enduring versatility, proving that even decades-old designs can find new life in the hands of passionate builders. With its rare frame, mechanical ingenuity, and planned upgrades, this blacked-out softail is a rolling piece of motorcycle history—one that’s still being written.
, showcasing the Startwin softail frame, dual-chain setup, and the bike’s aggressive blacked-out stance.)
