Larry Zamora sent us photos of his 1980 XS650, showing off his custom build from every angle. His journey from a stock bike to a unique chopper is truly inspiring. Let’s dive into the details of Larry’s project.
Larry bought this 1980 XS650 about six months ago. When he got it, the bike was mostly stock, except for a seat swap to a café racer style and some aftermarket mufflers. Larry had a vision for the bike, and he went all in to achieve the look he wanted.
One of the major changes Larry made was cutting the frame and adding a hardtail kit with a 4-inch stretch. This modification gave the bike a classic chopper stance and a sleek, low profile. Larry didn’t stop there—he took on the challenge of fabricating several parts himself.
Larry crafted the battery box and a fake oil tank that serves as wire housing. These custom touches not only enhance the bike’s aesthetics but also showcase Larry’s creativity and resourcefulness. He also made the seat brackets and the license plate bracket, adding to the bike’s personalized look.
What makes Larry’s build even more impressive is that he did all the work himself, despite having no prior experience with motorcycles. His message is clear: if he can do it, anyone can. The result is a bike that not only looks fantastic but is also a testament to the power of determination and hands-on learning.
Larry describes the build process as fun, and the ride as even more enjoyable. His 1980 XS650 is a head-turner, and it’s easy to see why. From the stretched hardtail to the custom brackets and wire housing, every detail reflects Larry’s dedication and vision.
Thanks for sharing your amazing build with us, Larry! Your journey from a stock bike to a custom chopper is truly inspiring. We hope you enjoy many miles of fun rides on your beautifully crafted XS650.
