In the rugged and picturesque landscapes of northern Sweden, an bike has been meticulously crafted by the hands of an ingenious motorcycle enthusiast. Hans Carlsson, has unveiled his labor of love: a custom-built 1971 Yamaha XS650.

A Symphony of Parts

Hans’s XS650 is a symphony of carefully selected parts from various manufacturers, each contributing to the unique character of this build. “I have built this from slightly different parts from other manufacturers,” Hans notes, and the result is nothing short of extraordinary.

The front fork hails from a Yamaha XT500, providing robust handling and a vintage aesthetic. Complementing this is a front wheel borrowed from a Triumph, which, paired with a double reverse brake system, ensures superior stopping power.

The saddle, sourced from a Harley-Davidson, offers a blend of comfort and classic style, while the rear fender from a Suzuki 1400cc adds a touch of modernity to the build.

Custom Craftsmanship

One of the most striking features of Hans’s creation is the hardtail frame, a modification that not only enhances the bike’s visual appeal but also its performance. “I have rebuilt the frame to a hardtail,” Hans explains, demonstrating his commitment to both form and function.

The left engine cover, complete with clutch control, is a bespoke piece crafted by Hans himself, showcasing his metalworking prowess.

The fuel tank, originally a pear tank, has been widened to hold more petrol, ensuring longer rides without frequent refueling stops. This custom modification is a nod to both practicality and ingenuity, traits that are evident throughout the build.

Performance Enhancements

Under the hood, Hans has equipped his XS650 with a Mikuni 38 mm throttle carburetor, a choice that significantly boosts the bike’s performance. The rectifiers for the generators are also of his own design, ensuring reliable electrical performance.

The footpegs, moved forward for a more comfortable riding position, are another custom touch, as is the footbrake wire, ingeniously repurposed from a Citroën CX handbrake wire.

The bike rides on an 18″ front wheel and a 16″ rear wheel, a combination that provides a balanced and stable ride. Weighing in at only 150kg with a full tank, this slightly tuned machine delivers an impressive 60hp, making it as powerful as it is lightweight.

Aesthetic Excellence

Hans’s attention to detail extends to the bike’s aesthetics. The frame is painted with Hammerite silver, while other parts are adorned in Hammerite black, creating a striking contrast that highlights the bike’s custom features.

This meticulous paint job not only enhances the bike’s visual appeal but also offers durability and protection against the elements.

Built with Passion

Hans Carlsson’s custom-built 1971 Yamaha XS650 shows passion, skill, and creativity. “The motorcycle is built in northern Sweden,” Hans proudly states, and it’s clear that the harsh yet beautiful environment has influenced his approach to this build.

Every component, every modification, and every detail has been carefully considered and expertly executed, resulting in a motorcycle that is truly one of a kind.

In a world where mass-produced machines dominate the roads, Hans’s XS650 stands as a beacon of individuality and craftsmanship.