The custom Yamaha XJR1300 “Rhapsody in Blue” was the first motorcycle to be featured in the Yamaha Yard Built series. Created by New York based builder Keinosuke Sasaki of Keino Cycles, the XJR1300 features a number of changes, including a part from a classic British sports car.
The first thing that stands out when you look at the bike is the Keino signature springer front-end suspension, giving an unusual and retro look to the bike.
To compliment the new suspension and forks, there is also a new headlight assembly to match, plus custom brake mounts for the upgraded new Brembos, and custom handlebars.
The air filters are now exposed to the world, and the Yamaha XJR1300 gets a unique rear frame for the custom tail section and single seat unit.
The tail unit stands out as much as the front of the bike, and the sculpted rear end now sports a brake light which actually started life as part of a vintage MG sports car.
Obviously the rear suspension had to match the front, so there are replacement shocks. The custom exhausts are now mounted higher on each side of the bike.
Finishing off the bike is a simple and elegant blue paint scheme, inspired by vintage Yamahas, and gold wheels which match the gold on the retro suspension to give a nice overall look.
It’s a stripped back take on the Yamaha XJR1300, and a tasteful interpretation depending on how you feel about the radical front suspension change. But there’s plenty of craftsmanship in all the details.
Keino Cycles was founded by Keino Sasaki, whose earliest memories were climbing over his dad’s Yamaha XS650 until finally his father gave him and his brother a Yamaha TY125 to ride around on. Keino has created a number of customs, including a number of unique Harleys, and apparently the ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ custom Yamaha XJR1300 will be up for sale in September 2015, once Yamaha Motor Europe has finished displaying it at shows around the world.
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