| Yamaha "Ultimate Virago" |
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When Yamaha introduced the "Virago" Series of Motorcycles, Yamaha set a new standard for the generation of Japanese "soft choppers". Yamaha was of course the first Japanese maker to do so, already the XS650 was used for that purpose. We thought it therefore a good idea to commission the building of the absolute: "Non-Plus Ultra Super > Ultimate Virago....." I found the original folder with 15 pictures which show the unbelievable high quality workmanship that went into this machine.
This is an "Uncle Bunt" built machine. Uncle Bunt, real name John Reed, ran a custom shop on the UK before moving to the USA and working for Custom Chrome. He has previously made a couple of Triumph Bonnie powered customs in a similar style. Those, like the Yam: were engraved by Don Bloxidge, who was famous for his skills and work with firearms - hence many of the scenes showing pheasants and field sports.
Hope this helps. Ewan. Here you see the sleek lines of the Showbike from the left side. Picture 1#, 3#, 5#, 6#, and 13# can be clicked/enlarged !!!!!
As far as I remember, this girl was "Project Leader" , but Ludy's memory is maybe not so good....
The r.h. side shows the lovely exhaust system, details follow.
She always tried to show-off a little bit and I must say......
This l.h. 3/4 rear picture gives an idea what you should do if you want to build something like this.
From l.h. 3/4 front the Yamaha looks lean and mean.
Even Valentino Rossi would love to have such beautiful carburetors on his bike! Sorry, Valentino, there was no injection in those days!
And if you plan to modify and engrave the wheels on your modern bike, here are some ideas. Will take some time, maybe you have to go into a Monastry.....
This suspension unit you surely do not find in the 2008 Ohlins Catalogue...
The taillight also differs quite a lot from the cheap Taiwan lights that Motorcycle Stores sell these days. I always have been keen on top quality items.
On this l.h. shot you can view the unbelievable details on the V-Twin motor.
The r.h. 3/4 picture from the back let you get an overall impression of the bike.
Okay, it is a Showbike, but it must me quite an experience to (try) to ride it!
The plumber must have had quite job in twisting all those pipes together. Look at the engraving on the exhaustpipes.
The last picture shows the work done on the front hub.........
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