The Yamaha TX650, introduced in the early 1970s, was a motorcycle designed to rival the dwindling popularity of British twins. Featuring a 654cc parallel-twin engine, the TX650 was known for its smooth power delivery and robust performance but suffered from a bad reputation due to the chassis shortcomings of its predecessor.
For industrial designer and automotive enthusiast Masaaki Fukayama, aka Vision Design, the TX650 offered the ideal platform for an ambitious restomod project. His creation, dubbed the “TX650 Mustang”, transforms the Japanese roadster into a cafe racer with styling inspired by the P-51 Mustang fighter plane.
At the heart of Masaaki’s TX650 Mustang lies a re-engineered parallel twin. Masaaki bored the original 654cc cylinders out to 750cc and fitted them with new pistons for a boost in power that’ll ensure the bike can hold its own in 21st-century traffic. Fueling is managed by a rather unexpected addition from Weber’s range of carburetors. Masaaki fitted the DCOE40, which is designed for smaller car engines, using a custom-designed and 3D-printed nylon intake manifold of his own design. A 2-into-2 custom exhaust system completes the setup and provides a note more befitting of a motorcycle with fighter plane styling.
Beyond the engine, this TX650 is equipped with thoroughly modern suspension and brakes. Masaaki replaced the forks with a set from a GSX-R1000, using a Cognito Moto conversion kit to ensure a seamless fit. The rear suspension utilises YSS shocks that provide both modern handling and classic style. To round out the handling upgrades, Masaaki then installed twin Tokico 4-piston calipers. The wheels and tires have also seen some improvements on this extensive build. The 18/17 inch wheel combo which utilizes anodized EXCEL rims has been wrapped in Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross tires.
One of the most dramatic modifications to this TX650 is Masaaki’s treatment of the “cockpit”. Looking more like an aircraft cockpit than that of a motorcycle, the custom-designed and 3D-printed gauge cluster is packed with functional switches and warning lights. Beneath the switches sit a pair of Daytona gauges showing speed and revs and between them, a digital display screen. The digital display contains 3 additional dials showing lean angle and altitude, speed and current latitude, and compass bearing just like you’d find on an aircraft. It’s a lot to take in, but leaves no question of what inspired this project.
Managing all of the electrics is a Motogadget Mo.unit controller. Motogadget switches and LED lighting throughout replace the original items and there’s a 12-volt alternator system with integrated solid-state ignition by VAPE and a SHORAI LFX battery providing all the power.
Masaaki’s attention to detail is most evident in his TX650 Mustang’s bodywork. Every major component, from the fairing and seat base to the bellypan and fenders, was designed by the man himself before 3D printing. Other modifications include the fitment of an XS750 fuel tank and a custom-made subframe resulting in a cohesive and aerodynamic silhouette similar to the P-51 that inspired the build. Finishing touches, such as the horse leather seat and grips, classic silver paint, and machine gun-style turn signal housings elevate this project to a whole nother level.
This motorcycle isn’t just a piece of art, it’s a machine built to be ridden. By blending the timeless charm of the Yamaha TX650 with cutting-edge technology and P51-inspired design, Masaaki has created one of the most unique cafe racers of 2024.
