Here is Rich’s 1977 XS650 Bobber, an example of the xs650’s enduring popularity and potential for personalization.
The bike, purchased by Rich in February 2024, showcases the previous owner’s craftsmanship and vision. “I want to give the previous owner his dues because he built this from the ground up and did an awesome job,” Rich shared with us.
This XS650 Bobber stands out with its clean lines and purposeful modifications. The previous builder transformed the stock frame into a hardtail, giving the bike a classic bobber silhouette. The absence of a front brake and the addition of drag bars further emphasize the stripped-down aesthetic.
Under the hood, this XS650 packs some serious performance upgrades. Rich noted, “The bike is kick only with a PMA system and Mikuni VM 34mm round slide carbs.” These modifications not only enhance the bike’s performance but also contribute to its raw, vintage feel.
Despite being a recent acquisition, Rich has already put the bike through its paces. “The bike runs great and I’ve only put about 100 miles on it so far,” he reported. This initial experience has inspired Rich to plan further customizations, demonstrating the ongoing evolution that many XS650 builds undergo.
Looking ahead, Rich has ambitious plans for the winter months. “I will be changing some things over the winter. Probably a Wassel mid tunnel tank, definitely going to change the exhaust and add a 21″ front wheel,” he explained. These modifications promise to further refine the bike’s appearance and potentially its performance.
As with many custom builds, this XS650 Bobber represents a continuous journey of modification and personalization. Rich’s enthusiasm for the project is evident, and he has committed to sharing updates as the build progresses.
