JJ – I had a few sports bikes in the past (95′ gxsr, 01′ TLR) and had been searching for another TLR for some time but couldn’t find the right one at the right price. After deciding that perhaps I should move on and look into a cafe I started searching around and talking to a few of my buddies and one of them introduced me to XS’.
I checked out his bike and while it looked nice, there was something about the lines and empty gaps between the frame that didn’t sit right with me. I came across some other drop seats and while they looked better that the standard (in my own opinion) I still didn’t find the ideal proportions and flow of lines that suited my tastes.
After about a month I then reached out to my buddy’s friend that had built his bike and inquired about a build. We discussed ideas and he sent me a pic of a previous drop seat he had done and saw exactly what I was looking for. The drop was perfect and the extension was perfect and pulled everything together. We immediately started the process and after about a month this was the result.
Since he had a few XS’ hanging around I was able to pick out the set of wheels/tires I wanted (19 front, 16 rear, spokes instead of mags). I had him basically cut out as much wiring up front as possible. Electric start was retained and hidden in frame. Rear fender is an actual Ford spare tire cover. Battery strap is vintage leather postman bag strap. I’m happy with the results and most of all I love the lines of the bike.
Only downside is the rear fender is a bit short and I’m getting dirt/oil on the street kicked up on my back.
It’s a small price to pay for the sexiest bike I’ve owned.
