Built to Be Reborn: Our Top Picks for Custom Motorcycles
Some motorcycles have earned legendary status among custom builders, consistently chosen for their balance of simplicity, reliability, and style. Whether you’re crafting a café racer, scrambler, or bobber, starting with the right platform makes all the difference.
Here’s our handpicked list of the most customizable motorcycles—and what makes each of them a builder’s dream.
Yamaha XS650 – The People’s Champion
The Yamaha XS650, produced from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s, is an icon of mechanical purity. Its air-cooled parallel-twin engine is known for simplicity and bulletproof reliability.
Why it works:
- Mechanical Simplicity: Carbureted and kickstart-capable—great for hands-on learning.
- Aftermarket Support: Extensive range of bolt-on parts and frame kits.
- Timeless Design: Adapts well to café, bobber, and tracker styles.
Popular Builds:
- Café Racer: Clip-ons, minimalist tank, rearsets.
- Tracker: Wide bars, flat seat, high pipes.
- Bobber: Hardtail frame, solo seat, vintage tires.
Watch out for:
Stock suspension and brakes are dated. Upgrades improve safety and performance.
Triumph Bonneville – The Gentleman’s Rebel
From vintage Meriden models to modern Hinckley versions, the Triumph Bonneville is a benchmark of classic British cool.
Why it works:
- Versatile Styling: Equally suited to café, scrambler, or brat builds.
- Characterful Engines: From 865cc air-cooled to modern 1200cc twins.
- Strong Community: Extensive global support network.
Popular Builds:
- Classic Café: Clip-ons, Monza cap, polished details.
- Scrambler: High pipes, knobby tires, stripped bodywork.
- Brat Style: Flat seat, subtle paint, mid controls.
Watch out for:
Newer models have complex electronics—best for experienced builders.
Harley-Davidson Sportster – The Custom King
The Sportster has been the foundation of countless American customs since 1957. With its V-twin rumble and modular frame, it’s endlessly adaptable.
Why it works:
- Limitless Options: Easily transformed into bobbers, trackers, or café builds.
- Torque-Rich Engine: Delivers unmistakable sound and power.
- Massive Aftermarket: Parts are widely available and mostly bolt-on.
Popular Builds:
- Bobber: Solo saddle, shorty pipes, hardtail kit.
- Tracker: Flat-track bars, mid controls, lightweight fenders.
- Café Racer: Clip-ons, rearsets, bullet fairing.
Watch out for:
EFI models are harder to rewire. Suspension and brakes may need modernizing.
BMW R-Series – The Boxer with Bite
BMW’s air-cooled boxer twins (R75, R80, R100) offer both engineering quality and visual symmetry. The newer RnineT continues that legacy with a builder-friendly layout.
Why it works:
- Engineering Quality: Shaft drive, reliable engine, and well-built components.
- Iconic Look: Boxer cylinders provide unique visual appeal.
- Modular Design: Ideal for stripped-down builds.
Popular Builds:
- Café Racer: Clip-ons, alloy tank, custom subframe.
- Scrambler: High pipes, trimmed fenders, knobbies.
- Minimalist Roadster: LED lighting, digital dash, bare frame.
Watch out for:
Airheads require ongoing maintenance. R nineT is easier for modern custom work.
Honda CB750 – The OG Custom Canvas
Launched in 1969, the CB750 defined the UJM (Universal Japanese Motorcycle) standard. Its inline-four engine and balanced chassis made it a game-changer.
Why it works:
- Legendary Engine: Smooth, reliable, and responsive.
- Strong Following: Large parts network and how-to resources.
- Flexible Styling: Ideal base for various custom styles.
Popular Builds:
- Café Racer: Knee-dented tank, low bars, 4-into-1 exhaust.
- Tracker: Upright bars, performance tires, braced frame.
- Neo-Retro: Modern suspension, LED lighting, digital gauges.
Watch out for:
Pre-1978 models may require rewiring and carb tuning. Suspension upgrades recommended.
Ducati Monster & Scrambler – The Italian Wildcards
If you want a build with performance and flair, Ducati’s Monster and Scrambler lines are excellent choices.
Why it works:
- Striking Design: Trellis frame and minimal bodywork are ready-made for custom work.
- Performance-Oriented: Strong brakes and handling out of the box.
- Personalization Ready: Extensive factory and aftermarket parts.
Popular Builds:
- Street Fighter: High bars, exposed engine, performance tires.
- Scrambler Custom: Retro tank, spoked wheels, off-road touches.
- Neo Café: Sleek lines, LED lights, tail tidy kits.
Watch out for:
High maintenance costs and technical complexity—best suited to experienced builders.
What Makes a Great Donor Bike?
Builders typically look for:
- Mechanical Simplicity – Easy to strip, rewire, and tune.
- Parts Availability – Strong aftermarket and OEM support.
- Modifiable Frame – Especially the subframe and rear loop.
- Character & Styling – Visually distinctive motors and silhouettes.
- Builder Community – Resources and how-to guides online.
Final Thoughts
Customizing a motorcycle isn’t just about the end result—it’s about the process. The late-night garage sessions, problem-solving, and personal touches make every build uniquely rewarding.
Whether you choose a vintage Yamaha or a modern Ducati, the best custom bike is the one that feels like yours.