Dieter Bals sent us pictures of his 1979 Yamaha XS650, that seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with clever engineering solutions.
What immediately catches the eye is the unconventional gas tank choice. While many builders opt for standard XS650 tanks or other common swaps, Bals took a different approach by adapting a Kreidler Moped tank, creating a unique silhouette that sets this build apart from the crowd.
The bike sits proudly on a TC Bros hardtail frame, giving it that classic rigid look that vintage enthusiasts crave. But don’t let the old-school appearance fool you – under the surface, this XS650 packs some serious modern upgrades. The electrical system has been completely revamped, featuring an electric ignition and a clever transplant of a Yamaha RD350 stator, all neatly tucked away in a handcrafted electrical box.
Brass accents throughout the build add warmth to the overall aesthetic, while a Triumph duplex front brake provides modern stopping power. The minimalist approach continues with a custom-made seat and a Motogadget speedometer that keeps the cockpit clean and uncluttered.
Perhaps most impressive is the artisanal touch Bals brought to the project – the vintage-inspired paint job and pinstriping were completed by his own hand, proving that some of the best custom work comes from a builder who’s not afraid to tackle every aspect of the build.
