Nicolas Berard’s Yamaha XS650, affectionately dubbed “King of the Monsters,” is a harmonious blend of both, with a touch of international flair.
Built with love in the picturesque landscapes of British Columbia, Nicolas’s XS650 carries the spirit of a journey that extends far beyond Canadian borders. “I wanted an easy to use bike, something simple and light,” Nicolas shares. This philosophy is evident in every carefully considered detail of his build.
The heart of the “King of the Monsters” is undeniably its frame. The rear section is a testament to Nicolas’s dedication to hands-on craftsmanship. “The rear part of the frame is homemade,” he proudly states, showcasing his ability to transform raw materials into a functional work of art.
This custom touch not only adds a personal flair but also ensures that the bike meets his exacting standards for performance and aesthetics.
In a world where many builders might opt for off-the-shelf solutions, Nicolas’s approach is refreshingly utilitarian. “I made as much as I can to build my own parts,” he explains. This ethos extends to the tank, which is a new addition, and the rear fender, a piece repurposed from a Shovelhead. These choices highlight his commitment to creating a bike that is both unique and practical.
One of the standout features of Nicolas’s XS650 is its simplicity. He eschews the complex for the straightforward, a decision that is both philosophical and functional. “I wanted no expensive or fancy parts,” he mentions, underscoring his preference for reliability over extravagance.
This is exemplified in the bike’s electrical system, which is pared down to the essentials. Equipped with a PMA (Permanent Magnet Alternator), Pamco ignition, and a capacitor, the electric harness is as minimalist as it gets, operated by a single switch. Even the starter has been removed, its absence cleverly concealed by a Ford freeze plug.
The influence of a journey to Tokyo is subtly woven into the fabric of this build. While the specifics of this influence are left to the imagination, one can’t help but wonder how the bustling energy and meticulous precision of Japanese culture have shaped Nicolas’s approach to motorcycle building.
