“Seeking to revive a vintage motorcycle while incorporating modern features like cutting-edge handling, advanced electronics, and a distinctive retro aesthetic,” Steven explains. A motorcycle that seamlessly blended agility with comfort, making it an absolute delight to ride around the city, where its ease of maneuverability shone through most notably. I aimed to boldly diverge from my previous creations by pushing the boundaries of my imagination to unprecedented heights.
In 1973, Steven purchased a Honda CB500 K2 from Jim Hannah, the proprietor of Victoria Bike Salvage, which had operated for 33 years on Victoria’s British Columbia streets until it was forced to close due to eviction from its building, leaving Jim no choice but to shut down his long-standing enterprise. At the age of 62, Jim made the decision to close his store and liquidated his inventory by selling everything off. Steven deliberately returned to present the outcome of his Honda Challenge project to Jim. Tragically, Jim passed away soon after, prompting Steven to name the bike Hannah in his memory.
To start the project, Steven drove into the city in his Honda’s body. He reveals that he removed the old rear section and replaced it with a custom-made counterpart. This design alteration aimed to generate a sense of openness and airiness, thereby amplifying the visual balance of the bicycle by strategically increasing the distance between the tyre and saddle. The sleek integration of the newly designed part enabled a seamless union between the vehicle’s body and the tank, thereby significantly enhancing the motorcycle’s visual appeal.
Once the fabrication work was finished, Steven dismantled the vehicle’s body to expose the underlying steel and treated it to a durable powder coating in a matte satin black finish that contrasted beautifully with the glossy paint job he planned for the engine compartment.
The subsequent stage entailed the installation of the suspension and wheels, which proved to be the most challenging aspect of the build. He sought a cutting-edge setup for his CB500, but soon found that such modifications were scarce in this bike’s community.
My vision was to integrate a pair of Yamaha R1 forks and triple tree with a CB500 chassis. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a single bearing package that would accommodate both requirements simultaneously? After conducting extensive research across various websites, I managed to uncover the bearings sizes that are compatible with my needs. With a bit of effort and fine-tuning to the Yamaha steering stem, he managed to get it running smoothly. The issue was developing into a complex system with two interconnected discs and cutting-edge tire monitoring at the Yamaha entry point. After conducting thorough research, I discovered that the correct Harley Slender Glide twin disc entrance hub requires precise spacing, necessitating an extensive search for suitable bearings. After conducting a thorough examination, I found that bearings from a Ford Fiesta gearbox proved to be the ideal match for the intended application. Discovering the right wheel-bearing seals for my vehicle proved easier than expected, thanks to All Balls Racing’s comprehensive fitment chart that allowed me to locate the perfect size for my truck.
After verifying, Steven successfully attached the wheels and forks to a set of spoked BSR rims, carefully adapting them to fit the Harley-Davidson hub. As they approached, he decided to give his R1 forks a tune-up, restoring their performance to its former glory. Upon receiving the rims, he carefully installed and adjusted them to ensure a precise fit, then proceeded to convert them to tubeless configuration by applying 3M sealant tape. With edges then ensheathed in Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22R tyres, boasting an impressive 120/150 profile ratio. By installing an offset entrance sprocket from Cognito Moto and a customised spacer for the rear sprocket, the chain was finally able to run smoothly without any issues.
Upon arrival, the engine awaited, leaving Steven unprepared for the spine-tingling performance that would soon unfold, as he sought to craft a remarkably spirited and dependable ride.
The distinctive motor underwent a comprehensive overhaul, its intricate components meticulously reassembled to ensure optimal performance and longevity. I upgraded the inventory ignition system with parts sourced from 4into1. The pinnacle of achievement underwent a comprehensive overhaul. Following a thorough cylinder honing process, the machine was upgraded with fresh pistons, rings, gaskets, and seals. “I successfully overhauled the peak by repainting and reassembling the components, including reseating the valves,” he explains. I replaced the specialized cam with a CB650 unit to boost low-to-midrange power output and enhance overall performance. I replaced the stock chain tensioner on my CB650 with a high-performance aftermarket unit designed specifically to mitigate the annoying whine and vibration present at low engine speeds, ultimately providing a smoother idle operation. To mitigate these engines’ inherent cooling deficiencies, particularly when compared to their larger counterpart, the CB750, I implemented a solution by fitting the CB650 oil cooler, thereby increasing the engine’s oil capacity while also enhancing its overall cooling performance.
Steven has wrapped up the ability enhancements by adding a bespoke set of 4-to-2 headers and a slash-cut muffler finished in glossy black. The airbox has been modified by opening it up and equipping it with a Uni filter, allowing for enhanced airflow and unhindered engine performance. Subsequent modifications were implemented to transition the clutch and rear brake actuator to a hydraulic system.
Steven opted out of relying on Honda’s conventional manufacturing unit bodywork to achieve a retro look that was currently trending. The bike now sports an aftermarket gasoline tank featuring cafe-style knee dents and a sleek, high-gloss finish. The tank features a customised flush-mount filler and a sensor that seamlessly integrates with the innovative KOSO gauge, providing real-time fuel level monitoring. With a bold flourish, Steven finished the look by crafting a bespoke tinware design featuring a haunting “tormented teal” hue, elegantly accented with sleek silver velocity block stripes that exude a sense of modern sophistication.
The uniquely designed seat and hump of the wasp’s tail are a one-of-a-kind feature, largely inspired by a handmade pan created by Steven. A sleek and modern pan, wrapped in supple leather by a skilled artisan, conceals its sophisticated electronics below.
When discussing electrical systems, you won’t find any outdated wiring on this CB500, as everything has been thoroughly modernized. Steven has thoroughly upgraded his motorcycle by installing a cutting-edge loom and a comprehensive Motogadget M-unit system, courtesy of the renowned Revival Cycles. Rick’s Motorsport Electrics’ high-performance regenerative charger and state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery fully energize the cutting-edge electric system. The push-button switches on the clip-on bars adhere to swim suit regulations, while the Koso gauge appears to be properly positioned above the R1’s triple clamp.
The bike’s lighting system offers customizable options to tailor the illumination to individual preferences. The sleek design features prominently throughout, starting with the projector-style entrance headlight, which sets the tone for the vehicle’s exterior aesthetic. The daytime running lights and turn signal indicators seamlessly integrate into the overall look, while the dual-function rear taillight cleverly incorporates its functionality into the bodywork itself. “It was meticulously designed and crafted by me, with a clear vision in mind,” says Steven. “While visual representations may not fully capture its vibrancy, prolonged observation of a DTRL or brake light can still create an intensely stimulating effect on the eyes.”
For Steven, the way his bike rides is utterly delightful – so much fun! When navigating tight, twisty corners, it’s easy to shift from one perspective to its polar opposite. The braking system is impressive, allowing for smooth and effective halts with ease. You won’t win any top-speed contests or drag races, yet it will still pull strongly to the redline. For me, this is what makes it a truly enjoyable experience, since you can fully appreciate the thrill of the engine’s roar as you push the bike to its limits, without being burdened by the difficulties that come with a more powerful machine.
While most CB500 variants have followed a familiar formula, this motorcycle stands out as a departure from its predecessors. While not everyone’s cup of tea, building custom bikes isn’t about catering to the masses. Steven has successfully constructed what he needed.
