One of our dedicated community members, known as Dingo.mfg, recently shared the story of his XS650, a tale of passion, perseverance, and rebirth.
Dingo.mfg’s journey with his XS650 began with a vision of creating a small track bike, a vision that quickly evolved into an ambitious chopper project. His first build showcased the classic lines and raw power that the XS650 is known for. However, fate had other plans. On November 2nd, 2024, tragedy struck when Dingo.mfg was t-boned by a Ford F250, leaving both rider and machine in a state of disrepair.
The photos submitted by Dingo.mfg tell a poignant story. One particularly striking image captures him in a leg cast, standing beside his crashed bike—a stark reminder of the fragility of both man and machine.
Despite the less-than-ideal quality of the photos, the spirit of determination shines through, much like the glint of sun on chrome.
But this is not a story of defeat; it is a story of rebirth. The XS650 is now in its third iteration, a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its owner. “The motor and rear hardtail are being reused,” Dingo.mfg explains, “while the bottom rails of the frame have been stretched by 3 1/2 inches from the rear, necessitating a 3-inch stretch of the down tube to compensate.” This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the bike not only retains its original character but also gains a new lease on life.
The rebuild is ambitious, featuring custom machined triple trees and 35mm 10-over forks. These modifications promise to enhance both the aesthetics and performance of the bike, making it a true standout in any lineup. “Plan to rebuild the motor and bore it out to a 750 since it’s out,” Dingo.mfg adds, hinting at the increased power and performance that will define this latest iteration.
Each angle captured in the photos reveals the painstaking effort and craftsmanship that goes into such a build. Despite the challenges posed by the accident, the XS650 is being transformed into a chopper that not only pays homage to its roots but also pushes the boundaries of what is possible.
