Yamaha XJR1300 Cafe Racer by Wrench Kings

Yet Another exclusive feature of my buddy’s at Wrench Kings. This time it’s a Yamaha XJR1300 from 1999 and with this build, they show their capability of creating custom motorcycles that look like they were meant to be like this. Owner Frits wanted something else with his bike and headed over to the Kings. It was 100% original and the assignment was even simple as complex: make a real one-off eye catcher. That looks pretty simple with that MASSIVE 1300cc engine, (knowing that a lot of cars have less cc’s these days of downsizing), but the stock XJR1300 is just another face in the crowd. A typical challenge for Wrench Kings.

In the design stadium, they’ve decided that the bike should be a real single seated performance bike with a short seat and a gas tank with knee dents in it. Lights should be integrated into the design and some real classic racer elements like custom rear sets, clip ons, a half fairing and a custom seat cowl that suited flawless in the design of the gas tank. Getting the right color palette for this bike was based on trail and error, while they were looking for a retro touch. Looking at the result I may conclude that they succeeded. Very well. That’s also what their client thought and he gave the Kings a -GO-.

Just like with all builds from Wrench Kings, no part was skipped and got a complete overhaul. The frame got some necessary modifications to make it a bit shorter and keep hold on all the new handcrafted aluminum bodywork parts. The seat/tank combo and both fenders come from The Custom Factory/Stewin BV. All original parts of the bike got a new (powder) coating and/or refurbishment to make sure the “Wrench King Quality” is assured. This makes the end result look as if it’s a completely new bike. The bike also got a new wiring loom, built from the ground up. Of course with a Motogadget M-Unit in the center. This simplified the wiring setup which made it easier to fit in the clean look of the machine.

A little summary of the modifications: DNA filters, DNA carter vent, Tarozzie rear-sets & clip ons, Motone 3-way switch, Hell brake/clutch levers, Highsider bar end mirrors, 7″Rhino headlight, seat and grips by Silvermachine, Daytona Velona speedo, LED indicators, Monza gas cap, LED integrated tail light, M8 licence plate light, Öhlins rear shocks, Cobra SP exhaust system. 

The Kings about the result:

Due to the complete new aluminum bodywork, there’s nothing much left of the original bike. We’re absolutely happy with the result and quality of the machine. The combination of the colors and the bodywork give the bike a beautiful retro look with a modern touch since the motorcycle kept all of his original handlings. With the massive engine between your legs and the powerband of a V2 rocket, this bikes makes you smile every time you open up the throttle!

For those guys who are in the neighborhood or traveling trough Holland, feel free to visit the Wrench Kings shop in Utrecht. They have regular BBQ’s and they organize a bunch of cool things. And the shop is always open for likeminded people:

More info:

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Photo’s by Bas Duijs.