The Suzuki Bandit, a versatile and reliable motorcycle, has long been a favorite among the modding community. This particular example, a GSF650 from 2007, has been transformed into a sleek cafe racer by Crooked Motorcycles in Germany.
The client’s desire for a two up cafe racer gave the team creative freedom. Stripping the Bandit of its factory bodywork, they replaced the bulky subframe with a custom built unit featuring an integrated taillight and license plate holder.
The rear end is completed with aftermarket turn signals and custom side covers made of drilled aluminum. A handmade electronics box, doubling as a mudguard, houses a lithium-ion battery. Up front, a two-up Alcantara saddle complements the original gas tank.
The cockpit has been modernized with a CNC-machined top clamp, Motogadget instrumentation, and LED lights. ABM clip ons Motogadget grips and bar end turn signals enhance the riding experience. A Koso LED headlight with custom brackets and a small fender complete the front end. While the focus was on aesthetics, the original brakes, suspension, and wheels were retained.
The transformation is impressive, resulting in a stylish and functional cafe racer that retains the Bandit’s original character. The custom subframe, side covers, and electronics box add a unique touch, while the modernized cockpit and headlight give the bike a contemporary feel. The two up saddle ensures that the Bandit can still be enjoyed with a passenger.
The project demonstrates the versatility of the Bandit platform and the creativity of the modding community. The Bandit cafe racer’s transformation was relatively subtle, but it was still striking. While the engine internals remained untouched and the stock airbox stayed in place, the bike did receive a pair of sticky Bridgestone Battlax tires for improved grip.
The stock exhaust headers were retained, but they now fed into a high quality Speed Pro Cobra silencer. The bike’s color scheme was also updated with a muted black and Nardo Grey combination that gave it a sleek and sophisticated look. Despite the minimal changes, Crooked Motorcycles’ makeover had a significant impact on the appearance and performance of the Bandit cafe racer.
The Bridgestone Battlax tires provided superior traction, enhancing the bike’s handling and stability. The Speed Pro Cobra silencer not only gave the bike a more aggressive sound but also improved its performance by optimizing exhaust flow. The muted color scheme added a touch of elegance and sophistication, making the bike stand out from the crowd without being overly flashy.
Crooked Motorcycles’ makeover of the Bandit cafe racer was a success. The minimal changes were well executed and had a significant impact on the bike’s appeal. The combination of improved performance, enhanced aesthetics, and a subtle yet striking appearance made this cafe racer a truly unique and desirable machine.
