One of our community members, Shannon Cato, has sent us some amazing pictures of her cherished “Lil’ Girl”, a 1980 Yamaha XS650, lovingly named “Excess.”
A Harley Girl Turned XS650 Lover
Shannon has always been a Harley girl at heart, but something about the XS650 caught her eye and stole her heart. “I’ve always been a Harley girl but when I saw her, I just knew she had converted me,” she shares. And who could blame her? The classic charm and robust performance of the XS650 are enough to win anyone over.
The Rebuild and the Journey
Lil’ Girl isn’t just any bike; she’s a labor of love. Shannon mentions, “She has 1,000 miles on the rebuild & I plan on keeping her in the family, until she is passed on to another Sister who loves to ride as much I do.” This bike is more than just a machine; it’s a family heirloom in the making, destined to be cherished by future generations of riders.
The Joy of Riding
For Shannon, riding Lil’ Girl is all about the experience and the bond she shares with her bike. “I enjoy the time I spend, in the wind, bonding with her & she’s definitely one of the lightest (per pound) sleds that I’ve ever rode,” she says. At 55, Shannon finds joy in cruising and savoring the freedom that comes with it. “I welcome the days of just cruising on my ‘Excess’,” she adds, playfully referencing her XS650.
A Closer Look
Shannon sent us three fantastic pictures of Lil’ Girl from different angles, showcasing her beauty and the meticulous care she receives. From the gleaming chrome to the classic lines, it’s clear that Shannon’s XS650 is a well-loved and well-maintained ride.
