A clean and minimalist custom Honda CB cafe racer.

Some custom bikes impress with futuristic designs and eye-catching details. Others keep things simple with a classic, timeless look that doesn’t compromise on either character or style. This Honda CB cafe racer from a workshop based in a small town in Bavaria, Germany, represents the latter category. The client asked Elemental Custom Cycles to design a classic bike that is both reliable and unlike the majority of BMW builds cruising on the town’s streets. The workshop used a Honda CB550 F from the 1970s as a base. Since the bike had several rusted components, the team re-built it and completed a drastic overhaul to create this beauty.

The frame received a clean up as well as new triple clamps and a powder-coated finish on the chassis and wheels. Stainless steel parts and hardware replace the old rusted ones. This includes the screws and bolts as well as spokes. The engine underwent a complete makeover. It now features new bearings and pistons, along with rebuilt carbs, open air intakes, and a custom exhaust system that also boast a new black muffler. To make sure the bike will be extra comfortable to ride, the team raised the rear and installed YSS shocks.

At the front, fork tubes ordered from Japan sit alongside new fork springs from Wilbers. Other changes include LED lights, a round headlamp, and an analog MST Speedster gauge. Built from scratch, the seat features dark brown leather and an aluminum base plate. The deep blue color of the tank adds the perfect finishing touch to this custom Honda CB cafe racer. Photographs© Christian Motzek, Elemental Custom Cycles.