A first-time builder’s thoughtful approach to the timeless bobber aesthetic results in a remarkably clean custom XS650
There’s something inherently honest about a well-executed bobber. Strip away the unnecessary, retain what matters, and let the engineering speak for itself. Dean’s XS1 embodies this philosophy with a build that favors understated elegance over flashy excess.
The foundation of this custom started as an unfinished project—a partially completed XS650 with a hardtail already fitted. What emerged from Dean’s workshop is a carefully considered machine that draws from multiple eras of motorcycling history while maintaining its own distinct character.
Design Language
The visual anchor of the XS1 is its Bantam tank, a compact peanut-style unit that sets the tone for the entire build. Its gentle curves are complemented by an unexpected but perfectly matched Vespa headlight, which echoes the tank’s flowing lines. It’s an unconventional pairing that somehow makes perfect sense—proof that thoughtful design transcends brand boundaries.
Sportster wheels provide a period-correct foundation, their spoked construction maintaining the vintage aesthetic while offering proven reliability. The contrast between polished aluminum engine cases and black-painted frame members creates visual depth without resorting to excessive chrome or ornamentation.
Custom Fabrication Details
Evidence of Dean’s hands-on approach appears throughout the machine. The handlebar grips are handmade, a small detail that speaks to the builder’s commitment to personalization. The rear fender arrived through serendipitous circumstances—“an old guy wandered into work one day and asked if I could use it”—its unknown origins adding a touch of mystery to the build. What matters is how it works visually, sitting low and tight against the rear tire.
The front fender presented its own challenges. “It took a bit of mucking around to come up with a front guard that wasn’t too obvious,” Dean notes. The solution? Repurposed 3/8-inch chrome moly pushrods, bent and shaped to create a minimal front guard that maintains the clean lines while providing essential tire coverage. It’s the kind of creative problem-solving that separates thoughtful customs from bolt-on builds.
Mechanical Approach
Functionally, the XS1 takes an interesting departure from bobber convention. Rather than fitting a kick-start-only setup—the traditional choice for this style of machine—Dean retained the electric starter. “The starter motor has proven to be very reliable so far; it’s key start only, that is until it becomes a problem,” he explains. It’s a pragmatic decision that prioritizes ridability over aesthetic purity, reflecting a builder who intends to actually use his creation rather than just admire it.
The hardtail rear end keeps the profile low and lean, with twin rear shocks visible in the side profile maintaining the classic bobber stance. The engine retains its stock air-cooled configuration, with the horizontal cylinder fins catching light and shadow in the photos.
Overall Impression
What makes the XS1 compelling isn’t any single dramatic modification but rather the cumulative effect of countless small decisions executed with restraint and purpose. The matte black frame, brushed aluminum tank, and minimal chrome create a cohesive color palette. The riding position—slightly forward bars, mid-mounted controls, and a solo seat—suggests an uncomplicated riding experience.
For a self-described “first effort” at this particular style, Dean’s XS1 demonstrates a surprisingly mature understanding of what makes a bobber work visually and functionally. There’s no straining for attention, no unnecessary embellishment—just a straightforward motorcycle built by someone who appreciates the style enough to get the details right.
In an era when custom motorcycles often prioritize Instagram impact over actual ridability, the XS1 serves as a reminder that good design doesn’t require shouting. Sometimes, it just requires knowing when to stop.
