In the heart of Thailand lies Tanadit Sarawek’s “Home of Customized Design,” better known as Okay-Speed, the country’s most renowned and prolific custom motorcycle workshop. Within the framework of his entrepreneurial strategy, Tanadit manufactures high-quality aftermarket components for newly released motorcycles under the Diablo brand, a subsidiary label that underscores his commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. As soon as cutting-edge bikes are released onto the market, he becomes fixated on acquiring one instantly, often beating the competition in securing the latest model; his focus is then on rapidly designing, testing, and producing custom components that meet his exacting standards. Built around the foundation of a 2023 Honda CL300, this bespoke motorcycle was designed with a specific purpose in mind. Here is the rewritten text:
In just over one and a half months, Okay-Velocity has reimagined a Brat-style motorcycle using Honda’s latest twin-shock roadster platform.
Manufactured in Thailand, the CL300 and CL500 were specifically designed for the Asian market, with their primary focus being on this region. While Honda proclaims the CL300 as a retro-styled motorcycle, this assertion is somewhat exaggerated. Based primarily on early 1970s Honda CL models, the newly designed bikes share only superficial similarities, including a circular headlamp, fork leg-mounted rubber gaiters, and a twin-exhaust system featuring a high-set muffler and chromed heat shield. The Scrambler trim level has also been featured prominently in certain models, evident from its tall stance and distinctive headlight surround. While the Honda CL300 may lack certain features, it does boast a wealth of recent innovations and a reputation for unwavering dependability that Honda has earned over time.
To leverage the CL300 as a canvas for customization, Okay-Velocity set out to amplify its vintage aesthetic. With inspiration from renowned Japanese builder Go Takamine’s iconic BratStyle aesthetic, they aimed to replicate this coveted look. The Brat style of fashion, characterized by its distinct features, includes a slim profile, low center of gravity, large tires, shortened fender flares, a flat saddle-like seating area, and a handlebar with a rugged, off-road-inspired design. To give the Classic Lad (CL) a fresh makeover, Tanadit employed his tried-and-tested approach, blending bespoke tweaks with components from his Okay-Speed collection and salvaging useful parts from various motorcycles to create a unique fusion of styles and functionalities.
The retrofit elements, which Okay-Velocity refers to as ‘scrap’, were utilized to reimagine the entrance façade and cockpit design. The CL300 is equipped with a vintage-inspired 4-lens LED headlight straight from the manufacturing unit. The OKAY-Velocity acquired an additional LED headlight that, unlike a projector-style setup, closely resembles the appearance of a traditional incandescent unit. In the spot where the inventory’s handlebar should be, a pair of low-profile MX-style handlebars are situated. To ensure the equipment’s optimal performance, new levers, management controls, a streamlined throttle mechanism, and a primary fluid reservoir have been carefully installed.
The company subsequently inspected OKV’s CL300 components to determine which ones could be redesigned or built upon to manufacture bolt-on aftermarket parts. The team started by designing a canopy that effectively disrupts the gas tank’s monotonous aesthetic, introducing a bold visual break from the vehicle’s traditional design. The radiator features a sleek, laser-cut and folded aluminum guard, imbuing the component with a sense of intentionality. The arrival of new engine guards, a Series COWL, and a set of lower rear shocks brought about a simultaneous revision in the CL’s posture, as manifest in its newly acquired lowered stance. Small LED indicator lights have been discreetly integrated into the bike’s design, replacing larger traditional components, to maintain a sleek appearance without compromising functionality. The Diablo’s retro tail maintains a mild and bar finish, fully mirroring the adjustments made.
While many enthusiasts opt for bolt-on upgrades, Tanadit sought to make his project stand out through bespoke solutions, incorporating custom-installed features that showcase his unique vision. The custom-designed brackets facilitate seamless integration with the newly installed headlights, while the strategic relocation of the ignition component from the handlebars to beneath the gas tank streamlines the overall layout. The entrance and rear fenders have been carefully trimmed to refine the Brat’s sleek appearance, while a brand-new seat has been crafted and sumptuously upholstered for added comfort. The Okay-Velocity build dons a dramatic, high-contrast ensemble of rich black hues, seamlessly blending glossy and matte textures to create an undeniably menacing aesthetic.
Upon arrival at the destination, this CL300 stands out for its inventory appearance except for a custom exhaust system, but maximizing efficiency was never the primary goal here. With its sleek, fashion-forward design, this metropolis cruiser boasts a bold statement with its chunky Firestone rubber tires and sporty lowered entrance. While this Honda may not be built for speed, its unique design is sure to garner attention in Bangkok’s bustling streets.
Tanadit and his team have crafted various elements that amplify the CL300’s Scrambler essence, discoverable exclusively on the Ok-Velocity website.
