Victor – This was my first build and I could not be happier with it. It’s a 1978 XS650 that I purchased in Laredo, TX. I started working out of my shed and later worked out of the Cycle Shop in San Benito, TX, with Wayne and Seth Ruhe (big thanks to Wayne, Seth, Possum, Mr. Mike and Guzzi Pat). The hard tail is from TC Bros Choppers and they were very patient with all my questions and I now own a 6 pack of TC Bros drink cozies, thanks Tyler. All the paint on the bike is powder coat and came out great (thanks for the lessons Wayne). I shaved the upper triple tree, forks and left engine case and added solid aluminum risers and starter block off.
I fabricated all the brass on the bike after making my exhaust tips; I got brass fever I guess. As my first build it seemed like I did every thing two or three times so I have enough parts left over to make at least two more bikes! She runs great and starts conversations where ever I take it. I own several bikes but love riding this one the most. The photos were taken by a friend at Wiskey Tango Photography.
Some of the parts off the top of my head; TC Bros Choppers- hard tail, neck gussets, wire harness, regulator rectifier, throttle, exhaust builders kit, fender and tank, bearings and chain. Lowbrow Customs- Wires, tail light, rear master cylinder, plate holder, and lots more. Monstercraftsman chain tensioner and solid aluminum risers. 650 Central-oil filter modification and minimalist battery.
The tires are Firestone Gum Dipped from Cocker Tire and the rear sprocket was custom made by Rebel Gears. Big thanks to all the guys above who actually answer the phone’s and talk XS with you. And of course Mike’s XS for every thing I couldn’t find somewhere else or make.
The best part of building this bike was all the friends I built along the way, thanks guys!
Victor Hugas
