Neo-retro bikes are as cool as it gets, whether they’re factory items or barn builds. However, every now and then, somebody comes forth with a bike which redefines the whole set of rules for this class… and the new XV950 Pure Sports crafted by the Italian magazine Low Ride has just done that once again.
The XV950 Pure Sports is a creation of Oberdan Bezzi, a name well-known in the moto design circles for the radical takes on actual machines. Still, this time, Mr. Bezzi’s sort of outdone himself, as he managed to create a special bike which works almost like a time machine, bridging the 80’s classic vibe and the modern approach Yamaha had for its acclaimed Bolt.
Even if the XV950 Pure Sports looks like an entire custom job, you’ll be surprised to learn that the frame, mechanics and wiring/ electrics are all Bolt-originals in their OEM state. The bits and pieces which add the unique character for the bike are in fact bolt-on fabrications, all installed on existing mounting points.
There’s almost nothing left from the old Bolt on a visual level, as hand-crafted sheet aluminium parts radically changed the machine. While the front cowling harks back to the road racing machines of the 70’s and 80’s, with their round, bubbly noses and upper fairing reaching back to the rider, it is seamlessly integrated with the tank for a streamlined attire.
The rear of the bike tells a different story altogether as the tail is inspired from the iconic 1985 FZ750. Its squared edges are contrasting with the round, fluid shapes in the front, but this only makes things even more interesting. A racey chin spoiler, a classic tuck and roll bespoke seat that’s 120mm taller for a sportier riding position, and an aggressive free-flow intake to match the high-performance 2-into-1 exhaust are also on the menu.
A matter of either love or hate, Bezzi’s XV950 Pure Sports is in a class of its own, with a strong “take it or leave it” factor we simply fell in love with.
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