Readers' rides: Daniel's XJR 1.2

Daniel Schuh is a graphic designer and motorcycle enthusiast based in north east Germany. Here is his 1994 XJR1200 custom.

"Since my childhood - Daniel says - I am in love with two-wheeled vehicles, whether BMX bikes, Motocross and MTB Downhill, everything that has two wheels has always been fascinating and so it was the right time to build my own motorcycle. I am professional experienced in product design and prototyping of fiber plastics. Handling tools were taught to me in early ages by my father and my uncle both incredibly talented craftsman. So I was well prepared for the project. The budget I set should not limit my ideas but remain manageable. I wanted a bike with power, with approx. 750-1300ccm and 4 cylinder like my favorite from Japan. Built in 1995 or earlier. One day the phone rang and my buddy Toni, a motorcycle dealer, called "Daniel I have 2 very interesting bikes for you." Toni had a XJR 1200 built in 1994 and CB 750 SEVENFIFTY built in 98. Both bikes were in good condition and technically ok. It didnt take much time and I decided fast and chose the XJR 1200. In my opinion the XJR engine is one of the most beautiful air-cooled 4- cylinder engines out there and and I couldn't wait to start with the design sketches. In winter 2014 the garage was my secont home. The rear frame had to be cut of. A new tail and the number plates were formed with fiber plastics. The miniature LED taillight was fitted directly in the tail. The rear bench seat was fixed over the seat lock and disassembled for maintenance with a handle. To keep the motorcycle center of gravity as low as possible the battery was left in place and raised only by 1 cm. Now the bike is 20kg lighter. The results are noticeable advantages in handling. The seating position is 3 cm lower than the original. In interaction with the Renthal MX handlebar the perfect driving position for me. I converted original XJR Foodpegs with the unique cartridge cases shifter. This completes the old school vintage racing look. I optimized a lot more details. Ask me if you want to know more details about my bike. With a low budget but a lot of creativity and craftsmanship you can build your dream bike."

Visit Daniel at his nice website

ESPIAT - Germany