Here is a build from one of our community members, Thomaz Magnusson. Thomaz’s Yamaha XS650 chopper, a project born in the mid-80s, stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of custom motorcycles.
“This 650 was my third chopper but the first build by myself,” Thomaz tells us, reflecting on the journey that led to this stunning machine. With a little help from his friends in the Free Bikes MC, Thomaz embarked on a journey of creativity and craftsmanship that would result in a bike that not only turned heads but also captured hearts.
The Yamaha XS650, known for its reliability and classic design, provided the perfect canvas for Thomaz’s vision. The transformation from stock motorcycle to custom chopper was nothing short of spectacular. The bike features an extended front fork, a hallmark of chopper style, and a sleek, minimalist frame that emphasizes the raw power and beauty of the XS650 engine.
“It was around 85-86, I think,” Thomaz recalls, a hint of nostalgia in his words. The era was one of bold experimentation in the custom bike scene, and Thomaz’s chopper was no exception. The attention to detail is evident in every angle of the bike, from the meticulously crafted handlebars to the custom exhaust that gives the bike its distinctive roar.
Despite the passage of time, Thomaz’s connection to this chopper remains strong. “Still regret I sold it,” he admits, a sentiment that many custom bike builders can relate to. The bond formed with a bike built by one’s own hands is a powerful one, and the memories of rides and wrenching sessions linger long after the bike has left the garage.
Today, Thomaz rides a Yamaha XV1100, which he has also rebuilt into a bobber. Yet, the XS650 chopper holds a special place in his heart. “Maybe someone here knows what’s happened with that bike?” he wonders, reaching out to the community in hopes of reconnecting with a piece of his past.
