Like many shops, Purpose Built Moto does a lot to put food on the table. On top of their regular custom bike builds they also fabricate exhausts, do wiring work and produce bolt-on parts. But when the right client and budget come along, the Australian crew loves to pull out the stops.
Purpose Built Moto calls these projects their ‘Signature Series,’ using each one as an opportunity to push their own boundaries. This delightful Yamaha XS650 café racer is their latest Signature Series project. It’s a masterful combo of classic looks and modern performance, with a sprinkling of top-tier parts for good measure.

The 1973-model XS650 has some history too. It had been raced in the 70s and owned by the client’s grandfather, who regaled his grandkids with tales of how he thrashed people all over the streets of Melbourne on it. It changed hands a few times over the years?but PBM’s client thankfully managed to track it down. He wheeled the Yamaha into PBM’s Gold Coast workshop with a loose brief. ?He wanted an object of beauty that would create a desire to ride,? explains shop boss, Tom Gilroy. ?When this motorcycle wouldn’t be on display, it would be ridden on the road and taken to the odd track day.?

Most of PBM’s Signature Series builds have had a modern edge to them, but Tom relished the opportunity to build something with a vintage bend.
?I worked at creating a timeless piece that would feel at home for any rider, young or ol...