The Lowbrow Customs XS650 is a popular motorcycle model among custom bike enthusiasts, known for its versatility, classic design, and strong aftermarket support. The XS650, originally manufactured by Yamaha in the 1970s, has become a favorite platform for custom builders who enjoy transforming vintage motorcycles into choppers, bobbers, café racers, and other unique styles. Lowbrow Customs, a company specializing in motorcycle parts and accessories, provides a range of components that allow riders to modify their XS650 to suit their personal taste while maintaining reliability and performance. The combination of a durable engine platform, aesthetic potential, and the availability of high-quality aftermarket parts has made the XS650 a staple in the custom motorcycle community.
History of the Yamaha XS650
The Yamaha XS650 was first introduced in 1968 and quickly gained recognition for its reliability, smooth parallel-twin engine, and classic styling. Over the years, the XS650 became an ideal candidate for customization due to its straightforward engineering, availability of parts, and timeless design. Many enthusiasts value the XS650 for its air-cooled engine, solid frame, and the ability to handle modifications ranging from performance upgrades to aesthetic enhancements. As a result, it became a canvas for creative projects and established a reputation as one of the most versatile vintage motorcycles in the custom bike world.
Lowbrow Customs and the XS650
Lowbrow Customs is a company dedicated to supplying motorcycle parts that enable riders to build unique custom bikes, particularly for vintage models like the XS650. Their catalog includes a variety of items such as seats, handlebars, foot pegs, suspension components, and engine parts, all designed to simplify the customization process. By providing high-quality, affordable, and easy-to-install components, Lowbrow Customs has helped many riders bring their XS650 visions to life. Whether building a minimalist bobber, a retro chopper, or a performance-oriented café racer, their parts allow for extensive personalization while maintaining the reliability of the original Yamaha platform.
Popular Custom Styles for the XS650
The XS650 has been used as the foundation for numerous custom motorcycle styles. Each style reflects the rider’s aesthetic preferences and functional goals, and Lowbrow Customs provides parts to support these transformations.
Bobbers
Bobbers are stripped-down motorcycles with a minimalist approach, often featuring shortened fenders, solo seats, and low-profile handlebars. The XS650’s lightweight frame and simple design make it an ideal candidate for bobber builds. Lowbrow Customs offers custom seats, fenders, and other components that enhance the bike’s sleek, minimalist appearance while keeping it rideable and comfortable.
Café Racers
Café racers are inspired by 1960s British racing motorcycles, emphasizing speed, handling, and a streamlined look. XS650 owners often convert their bikes into café racers by installing clip-on handlebars, rear sets, and custom fuel tanks. Lowbrow Customs provides essential parts that allow builders to achieve this style while improving ergonomics and performance. Lightweight components and performance-oriented accessories are key to creating a true café racer from an XS650 platform.
Choppers
Choppers are known for extended front forks, customized frames, and artistic paintwork. The XS650, with its classic frame geometry and reliable engine, is a frequent choice for chopper builds. Lowbrow Customs supplies a range of chopper-specific parts, including extended forks, custom handlebars, and unique lighting options, enabling riders to build a bike that is as much art as it is a functional motorcycle.
Engine and Performance Modifications
The XS650 engine is a parallel-twin configuration that is highly regarded for its smooth performance and tunability. Riders looking to enhance performance often upgrade carburetors, exhaust systems, ignition systems, and camshafts. Lowbrow Customs provides a variety of performance parts, allowing builders to increase horsepower, torque, and throttle response. With proper tuning, an XS650 can handle both casual cruising and spirited rides, making it a versatile platform for riders seeking both aesthetics and functionality.
Suspension and Handling
Suspension modifications are critical when customizing an XS650 to ensure safety and ride comfort. Upgraded shocks, fork components, and swingarm parts allow the motorcycle to handle modern roads and riding styles effectively. Lowbrow Customs offers suspension upgrades that fit vintage frames without requiring extensive fabrication, providing improved handling for both daily riders and custom show bikes. Enhanced suspension also complements aesthetic changes, allowing a lowered bobber or extended chopper to maintain stability and control.
Electronics and Accessories
Modern electronics and accessories can be integrated into XS650 builds without compromising the classic look. Lowbrow Customs offers wiring kits, LED lighting, and digital gauges that blend functionality with vintage aesthetics. Upgrading the electrical system enhances reliability and safety, especially for long rides or daily use. Accessories like custom mirrors, grips, and foot controls also allow riders to personalize the bike’s ergonomics and visual appeal, creating a unique riding experience tailored to individual preferences.
Community and Inspiration
The XS650 enjoys a strong following within the motorcycle community, with many enthusiasts sharing their builds and ideas online. Forums, social media groups, and events showcase a wide range of styles, from minimalist bobbers to elaborate choppers. Lowbrow Customs often provides inspiration and technical support for builders, helping novices and experienced riders alike bring their XS650 projects to completion. This community-driven approach reinforces the XS650’s status as a versatile and enduring platform for creative motorcycle customization.
Tips for Building a Custom XS650
- Start with a solid base model in good mechanical condition to reduce issues during customization.
- Plan your build style, whether bobber, café racer, or chopper, before purchasing parts.
- Use quality aftermarket parts, such as those offered by Lowbrow Customs, to ensure durability and fitment.
- Consider modern upgrades for performance, handling, and safety without compromising the vintage look.
- Engage with the community for advice, inspiration, and troubleshooting during the build process.
The Lowbrow Customs XS650 represents a unique opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to create personalized, high-quality custom bikes. With its classic Yamaha engineering, versatile frame, and strong aftermarket support, the XS650 is suitable for a wide range of styles, including bobbers, café racers, and choppers. Lowbrow Customs enhances the building process by offering accessible parts, performance upgrades, and inspiration for both beginners and seasoned builders. From aesthetics to performance, the XS650 remains a beloved platform in the custom motorcycle community, offering endless possibilities for creative expression and riding enjoyment. By combining classic design with modern customization techniques, builders can transform the XS650 into a bike that reflects both personality and skill while paying homage to a timeless motorcycle legend.