William Tisnes, a Florida based car enthusiast, has ventured into custom motorcycles with his stunning Honda CB200 cafe racer. Despite not being a professional custom bike builder, his passion for tuning and his DIY spirit have led him to create a remarkable two wheeled masterpiece.
Starting with a 1974 Honda CB200 in need of a complete overhaul, Tisnes meticulously transformed the bike into a sleek and modern cafe racer. The project began with a thorough teardown, allowing Tisnes to assess the bike’s condition and plan the necessary modifications.
He then focused on the frame, removing the rear section and fabricating a new loop style subframe to accommodate the desired aesthetics and functionality. The new subframe features integrated LED lighting and shock mounts for a clean and modern look.
To enhance the rear suspension, Tisnes installed RFY shock absorbers with dual-rate springs and piggyback reservoirs. The front end received an upgrade as well, with repurposed forks from a 1973 CB350 and modern triple clamps. A steering damper was added to improve handling and stability.
The stock braking system was retained but underwent a thorough overhaul to ensure optimal performance. A stainless-steel brake line and a premium master cylinder were added to enhance braking power and feel. The cockpit area was also transformed with clip on handlebars, Renthal grips, underslung mirrors, and Motogadget bar end turn signals. These modifications contribute to the bike’s sporty and minimalist character.
The classic motorcycle, now transformed into a sleek cafe racer, is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. The bike’s rearsets, made of billet aluminum, are a sporty addition from Dime City Cycles. Instead of replacing the original gauges, they were refurbished to maintain the classic look. The stock wheel hubs were retained and fitted with new rims and stainless-steel spokes.
Continental ContiClassicAttack tires provide excellent grip, and the hubs were polished for a clean finish. The original fuel tank was retained and stripped of its paint, then adorned with a custom strap. A brown leather saddle from Tuffside replaces the original seat, and the fenders have been removed. A stylish cafe racer tail section and a new headlight complete the minimalist bodywork.
Under the hood, the engine has been thoroughly overhauled, and a custom stainless steel exhaust system by Hutch’s Welding enhances its performance. Aftermarket pod filters and a striking color scheme further raise the bike’s aesthetics. The combination of modern upgrades and classic elements results in a unique and visually appealing motorcycle.
The cafe racer’s sleek lines and powerful engine make it a joy to ride, both on the open road and in urban environments. The attention to detail evident in the bike’s construction is a testament to the skill and passion of its builder.
