The Transformation of a Yamaha XVS1300 Stryker: A Blackout Custom Journey

Every now and then, a project comes along that truly tests a builder’s mettle. Such was the case when a 2013 Yamaha XVS1300 Stryker Sport Bobber BCD found its way into the capable hands of Marcel, the mastermind behind Blackout Custom. The bike’s owner, impressed by one of Marcel’s previous Yamaha XVS1300 builds showcased on Instagram, made the journey all the way from Slovakia to have his machine transformed. Little did he know that this seemingly straightforward project would turn into a masterclass in patience, creativity, and a touch of humor.

The Road Less Traveled (by the Bike, at Least)

When the Stryker rolled into Marcel’s workshop, it was clear that this was not going to be a simple job. The bike had seen better days and, as Marcel quickly discovered, had been patched together after an accident. The previous repairs left much to be desired, with the bike’s structural integrity as questionable as a cheap knockoff. But where others might see a mess, Marcel saw an opportunity.

Marcel isn’t known for mincing words, and when he first laid eyes on the Stryker, he couldn’t help but think it looked like it had eaten one too many donuts. But armed with a set budget and a clear vision, he set out to turn this bloated beast into a sleek, roadworthy bobber.

Rear-End Revolution

The transformation began with the rear of the bike, which Marcel described as needing to “disappear without compromise.” Off came the stock fender, replaced by a custom-made one that integrated lights and blinkers, setting the stage for the bike’s new, streamlined look. The plan called for a single seat, so everything was designed with that in mind. But before Marcel could get to the fun part—crafting the bike’s new aesthetic—he had to address the more pressing issue: the chassis.

The bike’s frame was more bent than a politician’s promise, so Marcel installed a brand-new rear tire, a massive 240mm Avon Cobra Chrome, and custom-made lowering links with three height adjustment options. With the chassis secure, he modeled the new fender and crafted a comfortable single seat upholstered in luxurious alcantara. This was no ordinary seat—it was a throne fit for a rider who appreciates both style and substance.

Tank Troubles and Electrical Woes

Moving forward, Marcel turned his attention to the gas tank, which had more dents than a clumsy blacksmith’s anvil. Instead of replacing it, Marcel opted to repair and modify the tank, including fixing the warped cover around the gas cap. The bike’s electrical system was another headache, with past repairs so shoddy they might as well have been done with duct tape. But Marcel was undeterred. He tidied up the wiring, installed new turn signals in the original handlebars, and added a sleek front shield and a custom chin guard, all of which dramatically improved the bike’s overall look.

Custom Touches: Side Bags and Exhausts

One of the more challenging aspects of the build was fitting the swingarm side bag. Marcel had to create a special holder strong enough to prevent vibration while ensuring it wouldn’t interfere with the swingarm’s movement. It was a delicate balance, but in the end, he nailed it. On the opposite side, he installed custom-made open exhausts. The original exhausts were incomplete, and the owner had requested a more aggressive sound, so Marcel even crafted his own exhaust tips to give the bike a growl that matched its new look.

A Blacked-Out Beauty

The final touch was the paint job—a glossy black that made the bike look as mean as it now sounded. The budget may have stretched a little, but when the owner picked up his transformed Stryker, the smile on his face said it all. His message to Marcel after returning to Slovakia? “Hello, I’m home, the bike is awesome, thank you very much. And that saddle, it’s great, my ass doesn’t even hurt.”

In the end, Marcel managed to turn a bike that was more Frankenstein than Yamaha into a stunning, one-of-a-kind Stryker. Finding another like it will be tough, but if you’ve got a project that needs some love—or a full-on resurrection—you know where to go. Just don’t forget to bring a sense of humor; you’re going to need it.