Not all builds are full, stripped to the frame, polish and powder coat everything, from the ground up projects. That doesn't mean they are any less stunning. Here we have one of those builds. Starting with a stock 1977 XS650, we turned it into stylish brat anybody would be proud to ride.

An inexpensive way to immediately set your bike apart from all the others is to have a new frame hoop fabricated and installed, and that's where our client Vlad, decided to start.

After careful measurements are taken, the frame is cut and a smaller diameter sleeve is welded into place, adding support for the new hoop that's going to be mounted. The sleeve is totally hidden once the installation is complete and makes for a very strong bond.

Vlad decided to go with our upswept, brat style hoop with integrated LED brake and turn signals. These hoops have a very clean look with all of the wiring being internal.

Here you can see the channel we machine into the hoop so that the LED indicators mound flush.

He also opted for these tan grips that closely match the color of his seat, giving his bike an even more custom look. The bar end mirrors are aftermarket units that Vlad supplied.

After a quick trip to paint, the tank is back on the bike. The rich burgundy really compliments the tan and black theme.

Continuing on that theme, we wrapped the exhaust in black heat wrap and installed red pod filters to tie the whole thing together. As brat style custom becomes more popular I'm sure we're going to be seeing a lot more of these less expensive builds where it's more about what's removed, than what's added and we're here to help!  

Build Sheet:

• Frame cut and channeled hooped welded on

• LED indicator lights installed

• Custom Seat

• Custom Grips

• Heat wrapped aftermarket exhaust

• Powder coated frame and swing arm

• Powder coated fork lowers

• Powder coated wheels with black lacing

• Red pod filters installed

• Carbs rebuilt and tuned for pod filters

• Moto gadget Bar end indicator lights

• Moto Gadget switches