Buckle up motorcycle enthusiasts, because Sabotage Motorcycles, the renowned Australian workshop led by the gifted duo of Giles Colliver and Andy Dorr, is back in the spotlight with another awe-inspiring creation.
Today, we set our sights on their latest masterpiece a meticulously crafted cafe racer that pushes the boundaries of motorcycle design. This stunning metamorphosis, built upon the platform of a 1980 Honda CX500, promises to leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned motorcycle connoisseur.
Sabotage Motorcycles has started on a complete reimagining of the CX500. Gone are the days of the stock bodywork; in its place stands a sleek, metal-clad cafe racer silhouette. This transformation transcends mere aesthetics the entire motorcycle has been meticulously reworked to embody the cafe racer spirit.
The original chunky seat, exhaust system, and rear shocks have all been sacrificed at the altar of performance and style. A modified subframe now boasts a distinctive looped section at the back, providing a solid foundation for the bespoke elements to come.
This cafe racer throws down the gauntlet with its crown jewel: a custom aluminum fuel tank, hand-fabricated from scratch. The bare metal gleams proudly, eschewing paint in favor of showcasing flawless craftsmanship. This commitment to bespoke metalwork extends throughout the build, with reworked stock radiator shrouds that flow effortlessly into the tank.
The final result is a cohesive and stylish form that celebrates the raw beauty of the materials. A minimalist custom front fender completes the handcrafted bodywork, its compact design mirroring the emphasis on clean lines.
A touch of vintage charm is added by a repurposed Triumph headlight, secured by custom-made brackets that integrate it flawlessly into the design. This cafe racer expertly weaves together modern customization techniques with classic motorcycle aesthetics, creating a machine that’s both undeniably functional and a rolling work of art.
Moving down the bike, the stock handlebars have been replaced with clip-ons, complete with Biltwell grips for added comfort and control. The original wheels remain, but they’ve been given a new lease on life with a vapor-blasting treatment, a coat of Cerakote, and finally, wrapped in retro-inspired Dunlop TT100 GP rubber.
Sabotage Motors opted to retain and refurbish the OEM braking system for both the front and rear wheels, ensuring reliable stopping power. The standard forks were also kept, but they’ve been meticulously overhauled to restore their performance to peak condition. The rear suspension has received a more significant upgrade, with shrouded aftermarket shocks from Hagon taking over damping duties.
