We all know the Honda CX500. It?s been the gateway drug for many into the custom scene: a cheap and reliable V-twin, with a gawky frame just begging for a session with the Sawzall.
We don?t often see the CX650 though. Introduced in 1983, the CX500?s big brother offered more power, similar economy, and easy cruising?as long as bumpy roads didn?t unsettle the Pro-Link rear suspension.

This terrific CX650 comes from the French workshop Freeride Motos, which is effectively the nom de plume for multi-talented builder Pierre Dehrs. Pierre?s been working by himself for five years now, restoring older bikes and preparing enduro and motocross machinery for the vintage racing classes in France.
He?s one of those rare and talented individuals who can handle the tricky aspects of bike building without having to farm the work out?from welding to machining to paint.
But occasionally, Pierre puts aside the bread-and-butter work for a custom project, like this Honda CX650 scrambler.
The CX650 is not the obvious base for a custom, with a stamped sheet-metal frame, heavy wheels, and a rear suspension system that Pierre estimates to weigh more than 25 kilos (55 pounds).

Worse, this particular CX650 was in a shocking state when it arrived in the Freeride workshop, in the beautiful old southern French cathedral town of Albi. ?It was in a lamentable state,? says Pierre. ?It had already been modified in the cafe racer style, but probably by a stonemason rather a mechanic!?
Pierre manag...