One concept that has a particularly long history in the custom motorcycle industry is the cafe racer culture. It doesn't matter if it's a moped or a big motorcycle, you can make a cool motorcycle regardless of the displacement. That's what cafe racers are all about. Customizing a big motorcycle is not easy because of the inspection. Mopeds are too small. For those of you who are looking for an easy way to customize a 250cc cafe, I would like to suggest this.
What is a cafe racer anyway?
As it turns out, there is no clear definition!
The concept of cafe racers originated in the 1960's when British rockers modified their motorcycles to go faster. There is no such thing as a definition. However, there are some general characteristics of the motorcycles that are being customized by cafe racer fans all over the world, both in Japan and overseas.
Feature 1: Clip-on handlebar or low type bar handle
A clip-on handlebar is an essential part of a cafe racer custom. It is particularly attractive when clamped below the top bridge. There was a time when I used to compete with others to lower the clamp position. Aim for the perfect balance between a cool position and an easy-riding position.
However, if you squeeze the handlebar too tightly, it may interfere with the tank at full lock, so everything should be done in moderation. If you still want to squeeze, you can either modify the handlebar stopper to limit the angle of turn or tap the tank to gouge it. I don't want to do any modification, but I want to lower it even more!
In such a case, a swallow handlebar or a conch handlebar mounted in reverse is also a good style. The handlebars tend to be farther away, which is useful for larger people or when the position is cramped.
Feature 2: Rearset
I recommend replacing the handlebars and footpegs as a set! If you use a medium OEM footpeg with clip-on handlebars, you will get a great position (I have experienced it). In addition to the appearance, there are many aftermarket rearsets with adjustable mechanisms that allow you to change the amount of back x up and the lever ratio of the shift pedal.
However, the GB250 Clubman, which will be introduced later in this article, has a pretty good back step even in its normal state, so you may want to leave it for later.
Feature 3: Single-seat/semi-long seat
If you want to go all out, I recommend a single seat with a small seat cowl. You may want to look for a semi-long seat (for a shorter two-seater) if you want to avoid that, as it will impair the passenger capacity and load capacity. If you have the skill, equipment, and courage (important) to do something daring like loop-framing the seat rails, try a single seat without a seat cowl!
On the other hand, the reason why I recommend the seat cowl is because it is easy to hide the extra seat rails and brackets even if the frame is not modified.
Feature 4: A sense of horizontality! ← This is important
I would say that this is the most important thing. When customizing without modifying the frame or seat rails, the levelness tends to be an unexpected demon. The coolest style is considered to be one where the bottom of the gas tank or paint line and the bottom of the seat continues horizontally. There are many vehicles that have the tank backward in the stock state, so it is also a technique to add a collar or something to make the back of the tank float a little.
