While intuition might suggest that nautical vessels and bicycles have little in common, it’s clear that there exist some notable parallels between the two modes of transportation. In fact, one key aspect that construction companies tend to manage frequently is the supply chain for building materials. While wood is not a typical material used to bridge the gap between boat and bike industries, there are instances where it does occur. Occasionally, a customized motorbike catches my attention, featuring innovative uses of wood in its design. When executed successfully, the results can be truly remarkable.
At fifty-four years old, seasoned carpenter Jacques Jouvin has acquired a wealth of knowledge and experience in working with wood. Based primarily in Avignon, France, his Atelier JAB workshop creates high-end cabinetry solutions for discerning local clients. While Jacques’ primary passion is crafting cabinetry, he also enjoys tinkering with bicycles and sidecars in his free time. Several years ago, he resolved to combine his passion for wooden-hulled sailboats with his enthusiasm for cycling.
The Atelier JAB XS650 was undeniably influenced by the opulent runabouts crafted by renowned brands such as Chris-Craft and Riva.
“My personal vision for a motorcycle’s design is one that embodies refinement, elegance, and raciness, with clean lines and an air of sophistication.” Jacques notes that he crafts monohulls and wooden assemblies by drawing on techniques derived from the maritime sphere. The meticulous planning behind this revelation was evident in every carefully considered detail. With vintage motorcycles piqued my interest, I zeroed in on finding a relic from bygone eras, specifically the iconic Yamaha XS650. I found that its variants, components, and architecture are incredibly versatile and accommodating to personalization.
Following the purchase of his 1978 Yamaha XS650, Jacques assembled a core group of like-minded motorcycle enthusiasts to collaborate on bringing his innovative vision to life. The group comprised Fabien Tourlan, professionally known as “l’Atelier Les Bécanes,” a renowned expert in classic motorbike restoration, along with Aymeric Romanowski from Atelier WIK, who specializes in elements, and the collaborative efforts of Bernard Christy, David Gallet Dadygraph, and Laurent Chapus of Neway Designs, who brought their expertise to the project through their paint skills.
Here is the rewritten text: “To create a café racer design for the overall machine, I envisioned a harmonious blend of metal, aluminum, and wood.”
Upon disassembling the XS, Jacques set about modifying its body. The chassis was reinforced by removing unnecessary brackets and readied for its revamped bodywork. As soon as the templates were finalized, Jacques felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing that the design’s size and proportions were now set. With his creative vision firmly established, he began constructing the Yamaha’s wooden monocoque ‘hull’, carefully crafting each element to bring his artistic vision to life.
To accomplish this innovative mission, the choice of timber had to be as unique as its purpose. Jacques curated a unique selection, ultimately choosing the coveted Wengé, a rare and endangered wood native to Africa’s Millettia Laurentii tree. He recalls discovering it in the possession of a retired woodworker who had safeguarded his collection since 1976.
Transforming unseasoned timber into precision-engineered components for a high-performance motorcycle required exceptional skill and dedication. After taking nearly a year to complete, Jacques employed a diverse array of woodworking techniques to fully comprehend the project. The Wengé boards were previously assembled and then shaped, with aluminum incorporated into the design for enhanced strength and durability. To highlight the Wengé wood’s exceptional grain, a total of 12 coats of high-gloss, UV-resistant varnish have been meticulously applied to achieve a luxurious finish reminiscent of premium nautical vessels. A unique blend of craftsmanship and nostalgic flair is exemplified by the custom-designed brown leather saddle and vintage-inspired Monza filler cap that completes this innovative creation.
The creation of this Yamaha café racer transcended a mere focus on bodywork, delving into a comprehensive overhaul that encompassed every aspect of its design and functionality. The XS650 features a customised wiring harness now equipped with a state-of-the-art CDI unit, ensuring optimal performance. The rear flip indicators employ LED lights discreetly integrated within the body rails, cleverly utilizing repurposed orange acrylic components sourced from vintage Seventies door handles. Located discreetly beneath the swingarm pivot, the battery is nestled within its own compartment, while all electrical cables are neatly routed out of view.
Following modification, the body underwent thorough cleaning to remove all remnants of manufacturing facility welds, and subsequently, it was sandblasted before being powder-coated with a high-gloss chrome finish. The forks have been meticulously shaved and polished to perfection, with a customised drum brake installed for enhanced performance. The revamped triple bushes employ a bespoke high yoke, while the fork internals are elevated through the incorporation of progressive springs and hydraulic adjusters. The revised text reads: The rear suspension features an entirely new design, incorporating a pair of 320mm retro-style Hagon shocks. The gleaming Akront Morad rims feature polished wheels and stainless spokes, while the entrance fender seamlessly serves as a sturdy fork brace.
To complete his cafe racer, Jacques leveraged various readily available components.
E.NOV clip-ons feature chrome-plated aluminum handlebars, paired with high-quality Tommaselli Matador brake and clutch levers, sleek Rizoma bar-end flip indicators, and uniquely hand-crafted wooden grips that add a touch of elegance to the overall design. Within the confines of the cockpit, a solitary Motogadget ChronoClassic gauge finds pride of place, nestled within a bespoke wooden and aluminum enclosure that cradles its sleek design.
To complete the exceptional restoration of his XS650, Jacques opted to have the engine thoroughly overhauled.
“We undertook a comprehensive overhaul of the transmission’s bearing system, then proceeded to rebuild the cylinder head by installing new valve seats and valves. The cylinders were rebored to accommodate precision-fitted pistons, while the oil pump was reinforced for enhanced durability. Additionally, we replaced the kickstart mechanism with a digital ignition setup, and paired it with a brand-new clutch featuring strengthened springs.”
Together with the motor’s improved reliability, it’s been given a lift in efficiency utilizing Keihin PWK 34 carburettors, aluminium intakes, a whole stainless exhaust system and Okay&N air filters completed with Wengé wooden. The cylinders have been finished with a sleek satin-black coating, while every detail has been meticulously polished to a flawless mirror shine.
Renowned for their opulence and prestige, Chris-Craft and Riva runabouts have long been synonymous with luxury on the water, catering to the rich and famous seeking indulgent experiences on the open sea. The Atelier JAB XS650 is a genuine tribute to these iconic watercraft. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and sourced from exceptional, high-end materials, this bespoke motorcycle is poised to be the crowning jewel of any discerning collector’s private stash, where its unique character will undoubtedly thrive. Jacques is currently touting this bicycle model and invites inquiries about its features on his Instagram page.
