Built from a neglected American barn find by a qualified and experienced Mechanical Engineer. This exact machine was hand-vetted and selected to be exhibited in the prestigious Main Hall at the Bike Shed London Show. Designed to capture the timeless lines of an old-school British bare bones Triumph bobber, combined with the bulletproof reliability and iconic howl of a classic Japanese SOHC four-cylinder engine. UK Registered Historic Vehicle – 100% Tax & MOT Exempt. Cheap classic insurance.
The legendary CB550 power unit was completely stripped, measured, and inspected. The factory bores, pistons, conrod bearings, valves, guides, and springs show zero measurable wear and sit well within original factory specifications. Early-model rocker shafts were upgraded to the redesigned, wear-resistant later-model factory units. A brand-new clutch, fresh gaskets, and high-quality seals were installed throughout.
I sourced and fully rebuilt a matching set of Keihin carburetors, precisely jetted and balanced to match the custom short-pipe exhaust and custom air filter. The bike starts effortlessly on the kickstart, runs crisp, and pulls incredibly strong.
The Electrics are greatly simplified, with minimal wiring harness running the ignition system and LED lighting. The unreliable stock charging system was replaced with a modern permanent magnet alternator. Runs a concealed, lightweight micro-battery (Kickstart only smooth, predictable compression).
The Frame has been professionally converted to a rigid hardtail. The conversion was calculated, aligned, and welded using professional engineering practices, with precise alignment and structural integrity. not just garage guesswork.
The custom solo seat is mounted on a functional leaf-spring setup to absorb road chatter. The front-end features heavily modified factory forks with standard internal springs, beautifully accented by external cosmetic show springs for an authentic vintage look.
The original rear wheel is wrapped in a vintage-style Shinko tyre. The front end utilizes a new rim and heavy-duty spokes laced to a vintage Suzuki TS400 hub and drum brake, paired with an Avon front tyre.
Custom-fabricated fuel tank chosen for its perfect stance and lines, finished in a completely unique custom paint scheme.
Since completing the build, I have only covered very limited mileage. My primary focus and passion have shifted back to riding motocross tracks, meaning this beautiful machine spends its life locked away in a dry garage. It deserves an owner who will get it out on the road and enjoy it.
There is a mountain of engineering detail built into this unique motorcycle that is best discussed in person. Serious buyers are welcome to call, view the craftsmanship first-hand, and discuss a deal.
This is a true one-off engineered machine, offering exceptional value at this price given the hundreds of hours of design, fabrication, and mechanical restoration involved. A unique opportunity to own an officially exhibited Bike Shed London show bike for a fraction of the actual build cost.