The tale of this 2001 Kawasaki W650 stands out as a fusion of cultures and visions. Crafted by the skilled hands of Jeremy Tagand of Deus Customs, this bike is more than just a machine; it’s an homage to the choppers of the ’60s and ’70s, with a nod to the dynamic custom scene in Japan. Get ready to take a ride through the evolution of this remarkable W650.
The Birth of a Vision
This custom W650 was born from the creative minds of Jeremy Tagand and Guy Sebastian, bringing together influences from both the East and West. Inspired by the chopper aesthetics of the past and the Japanese custom culture, this motorcycle embarked on a transformational journey.
A Series of Transformations
Since its arrival in Sydney within a shipping container in 2008, this Kawasaki W650 has undergone multiple lives, each more captivating than the last. Originally a fairly stock W650, it first experienced the “Bobbersaki treatment” at Deus Customs. Stripped of its modesty, it received a Hardtail, Peanut tank, and a wheel conversion to 21″/17″. For years, this was its identity.
A New Beginning: Jeremy’s Vision
Nearly a decade later, Jeremy Tagand reclaimed ownership of the motorcycle with grand aspirations. He envisioned a Japanese bobber with elements of a drag bike, featuring low handlebars, an SR500 tank, and a Ski-doo turbocharger forcing air into the guts of the W. However, life has a way of steering us in unexpected directions.
Guy Sebastian Takes the Reins
This is where Guy Sebastian enters the story. After acquiring the bike from Jeremy, Guy’s vision began to take shape—a fusion of American and Japanese bobber influences. The bike underwent a remarkable transformation to reflect this new direction.
Bigger Wheels and Billet Clamps
The first noticeable change was the wheels, transitioning from 21″/17″ to a more formidable 16″/16″, cementing the bike’s bobber stance. To accommodate the width of the front wheel, DNA Customs CNC’d wider billet clamps and a headlight mount, ensuring a perfect fit. The SR500 Tank made way for a Sportster tank, and a stylish sissy bar was handcrafted by Hypnic Jerk.
Rabbit Bars and Chopper Aesthetics
Out went the drag-style bars, replaced by a set of rabbit bars cascading beautifully from the top of the fork caps. These bars featured internal wiring leading to mini switches, providing a clean and sleek appearance. The frame, aside from the obvious hardtail addition, underwent a shaving process, exposing the box in the neck, amplifying its chopper character.
A Finish that Shines
The true magic of this motorcycle lies in its finish. Juds Custom Paint was entrusted with giving the bike its final form. Bathed in a luscious cream hue with black and green gradients, the W650 stands as a visual masterpiece. But the devil is in the details, as evidenced by the numerous brushed brass accents that punctuate the bike—the wheel nipples, seat springs, throttle housing, ignition switch, fuel tap, and more—contrasting beautifully against the powder-coated frame and wheels.
In the end, this 2001 Kawasaki W650 is not just a motorcycle; it’s an ever-evolving work of art, a testament to the boundless creativity of its builders, and a testament to the enduring allure of custom motorcycles.