Yamaha’s XS650 has become one of the ubiquitous custom platforms. With a production run of around 13 years from 1970 onwards, there are still plenty around. This custom is the second project from a new Australian outfit called the Modern Motor Cycle Company; it isn’t slick by any means, but it has a certain rugged charm. ‘MMCC 02’ is based on a 1974 Yamaha TX650, which was part of the XS650 model family. (The TX version was given a new frame and swingarm to improve handling, a larger tank, and alloy rims similar to those on the W-series bikes.) The bike was a non-runner when bought by its owner James Cecil (of the band Super Melody), and he briefed MMCC to create a rat-style custom that retained the original tank—with its beautiful porcelain-like, cracked paint finish—and the original brown headlight bucket. MMCC then fitted shortened aluminum fenders, clip-ons, new instruments, and a vintage-style taillight. A new wiring harness was built in-house, and the battery relocated out of sight. A serious performance jolt comes from a pair of Mikuni round-slide carburetors, free-flowing air filters and reverse-cone megaphone mufflers, plus a Boyer Bransden electronic ignition kit. MMCC’s next two projects are Honda twins from 1973: a CB350, and a CB175. Can’t wait to see what they do with them.
Build sheet
Avon Speedmaster 19 x 350 front tyre
Coker Diamond 18 x 425 rear tyre
Aluminium fenders by WM
Generic reverse-cone megaphones
Alloy indicators with clear lens by Daytona
Gum-coloured GT grips from POSH
34mm, chrome plated clip-ons
Mirrors by Daytona
60mm, polished stainless steel speedo and tacho
Early-style tail light from Nitroheads
Flat seat with horizontal tuck-rolls in brown from Nitroheads
Completely rewired in-house, with electrics relocated under the seat, and an SLA battery relocated under the swingarm.
Alarm system
Boyer Bransden electronic ignition
Tarozzi rear set with custom made magnetic reed brake light switch
Open-spring shocks
