What happens when a professional motocross racer pulls up his sleeves to make a custom build? You get the perfect blend of inside knowledge and passion. This Honda CX cafe racer also adds a cool minimalist style to the mix, along with some gorgeous vintage design cues. Created by Billy MacKenzie, motocross champion and X-Axis founder, this Honda CX500 oozes style from every angle. It may be hard to believe, but the bike is MacKenzie’s only second custom build, completed while he was living in Byron Bay, Australia. After stripping and de-tabbing the frame, MacKenzie powder coated it in satin black for more durability. The centerpiece of the build, the V-twin engine pays homage to the industrial era of the ‘80s and stands out thanks to the bike’s minimal, clean design.
The Firestone Champion Deluxe vintage tires enhance the old-school vibes, with their distinctive patterns also adding an eye-catching accent to the bike. Other notable features include upgraded carburetors and pod filters on the custom fitted single cable throttle as well as the custom sheet aluminum rear with beautifully integrated bespoke LED lights. Billy MacKenzie’s old racing number also appears on the tank, as a subtle finishing touch. Photographs© Francisco Tavoni.
