The Unique Charm of DKR Scooters: A British Icon of the 1950s–60s

Rare ONES - In an era where personal mobility was undergoing a transformation, the 1950s and 1960s gave rise to a wave of classic scooters that defined urban transport for a generation. While Italian brands like Vespa and Lambretta became household names, there were also bold innovations coming from British—one of which came from a lesser-known but remarkably distinctive manufacturer: DKR. Known for their eye-catching, somewhat quirky front-end designs and solid engineering, DKR scooters carved out a unique place in British motoring history.

DKR line-up (Capella, Defiant, Dove, Manx and Pegasus scooter models) on display at the 2017 Vintage Motor Scooter Club’s Annual Extravaganza held in Coventry, West Midlands, England. (Picture from: ScooterLab.uk)

DKR scooters were manufactured in Wolverhampton, England, between 1957 and 1966, during a time when demand for economical and stylish two-wheelers was booming. The company behind them, DKR Ltd., was established by Barry Day and Noah Robinson—then directors at Willenhall Motor Radiator Co.—alongside industrialist Cyril Kieft, who had previously made a name for himself in the world of racing car production. DKR was based at Pendeford Airport, an unusual but practical location for a budding automotive manufacturer of the time. Before we go any further, have you ever wondered what DKR stands for? It represents the initials of its founders: Barry Day, Cyril Kieft, and Noah Robinson.

The first scooter made by DKR Ltd. in 1957 is DKR Dove featured with a Villers 30C 147cc, 6.3hp engine coupled with the 3-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: TurboPost.co.uk)

At a glance, scooters made in the UK have a noticeably different appearance compared to those from countries like Italy, France, or Germany. While many scooters of the era embraced sleek, continental styling, DKR models stood out with their large, rounded front ends—earning them the nickname "big nose" among enthusiasts. This unusual design, most prominent in early models like the Dove, Defiant, and Manx, gave them immediate visual identity. Though not everyone appreciated the look, it represented a bold and distinctive approach that captured the essence of British design spirit at the time.

This is DKR Pegasus featured with a 148cc single-cylinder Villiers engine coupled with a Siba Dynastart electric starter, which ensures first-time starts, a four-speed gearbox and a Villiers carburetor. (Picture from: Pinterest)

The DKR Dove, introduced in July 1957, was the company’s first offering. It came with a 147cc Villiers 30C engine delivering 6.3 horsepower and included a cooling fan and a three-speed manual transmission. While it wasn’t the lightest scooter around, it struck a balance between retro charm and practical power. The following year, DKR released two additional models—the Pegasus and the Defiant—both built on the same chassis and body as the Dove, but equipped with different engines. The Pegasus used a 148cc Villiers engine, while the Defiant packed a punchier 197cc version, both with electric starters and a four-speed gearbox. They promised smooth starts and decent performance, capable of reaching up to 60 mph while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency.

This is DKR Defiant featured with a 197cc single-cylinder air-cooled Villiers engine coupled with a Siba Dynastart electric starter, which ensures first-time starts, a four-speed gearbox and a Villiers carburetor. (Picture from: Pinterest)

In 1959, the DKR Manx entered the scene. This model featured a twin-cylinder 249cc two-stroke Villiers engine and retained the signature DKR body styling. It served as the brand’s response to a growing market for higher-displacement scooters and gave a bit more edge to the lineup.

This is DKR Manx featured with a 249cc two-cylinders air-cooled Villiers engine coupled with a Siba Dynastart electric starter, which ensures first-time starts, a four-speed gearbox and a Villiers carburetor. (Picture from: Pinterest)

By 1960, DKR introduced improved versions of their previous models—the Dove II and Pegasus II—each now featuring the newer 174cc 2L engine. While the mechanical improvements were welcome, the visual design remained largely unchanged, and by this point, some critics began to view the styling as outdated in a market increasingly focused on modern lines and refined finishes.

This is DKR Capella started in the 1960 and featured with a 148cc single-cylinder Villiers engine which had revamped styling and bodywork. (Picture from: Classic-Bikes-Motorcycles)

It wasn’t until the introduction of the Capella range in the 1960s that DKR truly broke away from its earlier design conventions. The Capella models embraced a cleaner, more contemporary look, moving away from the heavy front-end style. These scooters came in several versions: the Capella Mk 1 with a 148cc Villiers 31C engine, the Standard version with a 174cc 2L engine, and the De Luxe variant featuring a 197cc 9E engine with an electric starter. This new generation offered a broader appeal and more refined styling, along with accessible price points starting around £152.

Despite the design overhaul and a product lineup that catered to both casual riders and performance enthusiasts, DKR struggled to keep pace with the intense competition from more established European brands. After nearly a decade of production, the company shut its doors in 1966, closing the chapter on a unique British scooter legacy.

Looking back today, DKR scooters stand as a symbol of British creativity during a golden age of two-wheeled travel. Their bold styling choices, reliable Villiers engines, and confident presence on the road still capture the imagination of vintage scooter fans around the world. Whether remembered for their unmistakable “nose” or their late-game elegance in the Capella, DKR scooters remain a fascinating reminder of a time when personality and practicality could ride side by side.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA [23012021] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PARKAAVENUE | GRACESGUIDE | CYBERMOTORCYCLE | SCUDERIAVESPASVEDESE | GRACEGUIDE.CO.UK ]
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Rare and Beautiful Italian Scooters That Time Forgot (Part 2)

Chrome Echoes - As mentioned in the first part of this article, we now continue exploring a range of rare Italian scooter brands—beyond Vespa and Lambretta—that once added flair and variety to the global scooter scene.

In 1950s Rome, two couples cruise together on scooters through the city’s streets. (Picture from: AKG-Images)

Rare and Beautiful Italian Scooters That Time Forgot (Part 1)

Scooter Relics - Italy, often affectionately dubbed "The Spaghetti Country," is not only renowned for its cuisine but also as the birthplace of some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic scooters. After World War II, the two-wheeled vehicle market in Italy flourished, giving rise to numerous scooter manufacturers. Among the most prominent were Piaggio, with its legendary Vespa, and Innocenti, the maker of Lambretta.

The scooters atmosphere in Rome around the 1950s in William Klein's camera shots. (Picture from: RTVE.es)

Lazareth LM 847: The Motorcycle Powered by a 4.7L Maserati V8 Engine

Mechanical Madness - When talking about motorcycles that blur the line between art, engineering, and insanity, it's impossible not to bring up creations that push every known limit of design and performance. In a world where customization often leans into subtlety and refinement, some builders choose instead to throw caution to the wind—and fuel on the fire. That’s exactly what French customizer Ludovic Lazareth did when he unveiled a machine that looked more like a concept from a dystopian sci-fi film than a street-legal motorcycle. Welcome to the world of the Lazareth LM 847, a vehicle that still turns heads nearly a decade after its jaw-dropping debut in 2016.

The Lazareth LM 847, created by Ludovic Lazareth, made its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Built around the heart of a Maserati Quattroporte, the LM 847 is a monument to mechanical audacity. Lazareth didn't just borrow the spirit of a sports car—he transplanted its very soul. At the center of this beast roars a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine, a 32-valve powerhouse capable of unleashing 470 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 620 Nm of torque at 4,750 rpm. Originally designed for a luxury sedan, this massive engine now sits exposed, right beneath the rider, in a layout that defies conventional logic and aesthetics. It’s raw, it’s aggressive, and it doesn’t pretend to be anything less than outrageous.

Front view of Lazareth LM 847. (Picture from: Motorcycle)

With a build that stretches 2.6 meters in length and tips the scale at around 400 kg, the LM 847 is no lightweight. But despite its heft, it doesn’t sacrifice performance. Instead of opting for a traditional multi-gear transmission, Lazareth chose a single-speed gearbox paired with a hydraulic clutch, simplifying the drivetrain and focusing all that monstrous power through a chain to the twin rear wheels. Yes—twin. Because if one tire wasn’t enough to keep this machine grounded, two certainly make a bold statement.

Left side view of Lazareth LM 847. (Picture from: Autoblog)

From an engineering standpoint, the use of dual wheels both front and rear isn’t just for show. Stability and balance are essential when dealing with this level of power and weight. The front end features massive 420 mm Brembo discs with eight-piston Nissin calipers, while the rear relies on a 255 mm disc setup with four-piston Brembos. Suspension is handled by TFX at the back, ensuring the LM 847 can tame even the most uneven roads—should anyone be brave enough to ride it that far.

Lazareth LM 847 packs a Maserati V8 into a leaning quad frame. (Picture from: Motorcycle)

What truly sets the LM 847 apart isn’t just the numbers or its bold appearance, but the philosophy behind it. Ludovic Lazareth isn’t new to the world of wild builds. The French designer has built a reputation on his ability to merge automotive components with two-wheeled platforms in ways most wouldn’t dare. From flying motorcycles to military-inspired concepts, his workshop is a laboratory of bold experimentation. But the LM 847 was something else entirely. Revealed at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, the bike quickly became a centerpiece—not just because of its specs, but because of its sheer presence.

Rear side view of Lazareth LM847. (Picture from: Autoblog)

And while questions remain about its roadworthiness, production plans, or even its test results, that was never really the point. The LM 847 wasn’t created to dominate racetracks or fill showroom floors. It was built to show what happens when imagination is allowed to run free, when performance is measured not just in horsepower but in sheer spectacle. It’s a rolling work of art, an engineering challenge brought to life, and a statement on the limitless possibilities of custom motorcycle culture.

Even today, long after its first appearance, the Lazareth LM 847 continues to inspire and provoke conversation. It’s proof that in a world full of safe, sensible choices, there’s still room for something truly wild.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops..... *** *** [EKA [10062016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOBLOG | MOTORCYCLE ]

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Sachs Beast 1000: The Futuristic Cafe Racer Concept That Never Hit the Road

Throttle Vision - In an era where motorcycles are evolving faster than ever, blending performance with aesthetics, it’s no surprise that manufacturers have occasionally dared to dream beyond conventional boundaries. One such bold experiment came from a company not typically in the limelight of the international motorcycle stage—Sachs. Though primarily known for its utilitarian bikes, Sachs made a dramatic statement with an ambitious concept that left an unforgettable impression: the Sachs Beast 1000.

The Sachs Beast 1000 was a bold fusion of design and engineering by Hartmut Huhn of Target Design, featuring sleek café racer lines and a striking futuristic stance. (Picture from: Target-Desgn)

GWM Souo S2000: The World’s First 2,000cc 8-Cylinder Cruiser Motorcycle

Lionhearted Machine - In today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape, manufacturers are constantly looking for new ways to stand out. Whether through groundbreaking technology or striking design, the goal remains the same: to captivate the imagination of consumers. Recently, one brand has begun to make waves — Great Wall Motor (GWM), through its Souo division, has made a bold move that is drawing major attention with the launch of an extraordinary machine: the GWM Souo S2000.

The GWM Souo hosted a unique celebration for riders, culminating in the 2024 GWM Heavy Motorbike Carnival in Baoding, and witnessed to the thrilling release of the GWM Souo S2000. (Picture from: GWM-Global)

Originating from China, GWM Souo ventures into new territory with the creation of the world’s first motorcycle powered by an 8-cylinder, 2,000cc engine. There are three models are available: the S2000ST two-box version, the S2000GL three-box version and the Founder Edition. The Souo S2000, a cruiser-style motorbike aimed at competing with legendary names like the Honda Gold Wing. However, its appeal is not limited to engine size alone; this impressive machine masterfully combines raw power with cutting-edge technology, making it truly one of a kind.

The GWM Souo S2000: the world’s first 2,000cc 8-cylinder cruiser motorcycle, aimed at competing with legendary names like the Honda Gold Wing. (Picture from: JPNN)

Victor Zhao, CEO of GWM Souo, proudly states that the Souo S2000 holds the distinction of being the only motorcycle in the world equipped with such a powerful 8-cylinder engine of this size. Manufactured in Baoding, China, the bike doesn’t just boast muscle; it also features an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), a system typically reserved for high-performance sports cars. This ensures the Souo S2000 offers a seamless and exhilarating riding experience, marrying comfort with precision engineering.

The 4-valve, DOHC, horizontally-opposed, eight-cylinder, two-liter engine is a sculpture in its own right. (Picture from: AMCN.com.au)

Adding to its sophisticated performance, the Souo S2000 comes equipped with an electrically adjustable suspension system. This allows the shock absorbers to adapt automatically to different road conditions, enhancing the ride quality for both the rider and the passenger.

The GWM Souo S2000 while sat on display at the Auto Shanghai 2025. (Picture from: JawaPos)

For maximum riding comfort, the Souo S2000 is fitted with a Hossack-style front suspension. Its braking system features Brembo floating calipers and discs, supported by an electronic parking brake. Long-distance touring is made even more enjoyable with a TFT display integrated with an audio system and Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the bike offers a voice control system for various functions, an electrically adjustable rider’s seat, and a Cruise Control system to easily adjust speed while on the move.

The GWM Souo S2000's headlamp is inspired by the traditional Chinese lion dance, a symbol of excitement and good fortune. (Picture from: GridOto)

Under the hood, the 2,000cc engine produces an impressive 153 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. This performance ensures the bike roars confidently on highways while also handling low-speed maneuvers with surprising agility. Thanks to its robust engine configuration, the Souo S2000 even offers a reverse function, capable of backing up at speeds of up to 3 km/h — a practical feature for navigating tight spaces.

The GWM Souo S2000 while sat on display at the Auto Shanghai 2025. (Picture from: GridOto)

The design of the Souo S2000 is deeply rooted in cultural significance. Its headlamp is inspired by the traditional Chinese lion dance, a symbol of excitement and good fortune. This thoughtful design choice gives the motorcycle a distinctive character, blending cultural heritage with modern style, and showcasing GWM Souo’s pride in its roots while boldly stepping into the global arena.

 

Priced at RMB ¥238,000 — approximately Rp. 549 million based on the April 2025 exchange rate — the Souo S2000 is currently available exclusively in the Chinese market, positioning itself as a premium option for riders who seek something truly extraordinary.

With its innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and cultural symbolism, the GWM Souo S2000 is far more than just a motorcycle; it is a true statement. Although it is currently only available in China, excitement continues to grow around the idea of its potential release worldwide. For riders seeking exclusivity, power, and character all in one unforgettable package, the Souo S2000 could be the dream machine worth waiting for.

 

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GWM-GLOBAL | NEW ATLAS | AMCN.COM.AU | CARSCOOPS ]

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Valkyrie: Redefining the Art of Low-Riding

Low Ride - The world of custom motorcycles is a fascinating blend of artistry, engineering, and passion, where creators push the boundaries of design to produce something truly unique. These machines often become an extension of their creators, reflecting their ingenuity and dedication. One standout example of this artistry is the Valkyrie, a striking creation by Kenny Yeoh of Kenstomoto, a bespoke motorcycle workshop in Malaysia. This one-of-a-kind masterpiece was designed for the Invitational Bike Build-off at the prestigious Art of Speed show in Serdang, showcasing not only the technical expertise but also the visionary creativity of its builder.

The Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s right-side shot showcases the Arlen Ness front brake and its unique cable-operated hub-centre steering. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)

Unlike the Honda cruiser of the same name, the Valkyrie by Kenstomoto is a completely custom machine that embodies the essence of innovation. Built around a 650cc Kawasaki ER-6 parallel twin engine, it’s a bike that defies convention at every turn. From its low-slung profile to its meticulously crafted components, this motorcycle reimagines what a custom bike can be. Remarkably, the engine remains one of the few standard elements of the bike, though even it is given a radical twist with an entirely custom exhaust system. This unique setup features short, large-diameter header pipes positioned just ahead of the rider’s left foot, emphasizing the bike's bold and audacious design.

The Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s left-side shot showcases unique setup features short, large-diameter header pipes positioned just ahead of the rider’s left foot, emphasizing the bike's bold and audacious design. (Picture from: Paultan.org)

The frame of the Valkyrie is a marvel of engineering. Measuring an impressive 2200mm between the axles, the tubular-steel construction not only defines the bike's elongated silhouette but also contributes to its groundbreaking performance characteristics. The rider sits a mere 500mm off the ground, with only 70mm of clearance between the frame and the road. This design choice emphasizes the bike's low center of gravity while giving it an aggressive, ground-hugging stance that is both functional and visually striking.

The Kenstomoto Valkyrie, designed and built by Kenny Yeoh, highlights just how impressively low this custom masterpiece truly is. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)

At the rear, the Valkyrie features a single-sided hardtail setup mated to a Ducati 916 hub. This hub supports a massive 17-inch eight-stud steel wheel fitted with an equally imposing 240/45 tire. The width and structure of this gumball-like rear tire not only provide stability but also enhance the bike's overall aesthetic, giving it a commanding presence that demands attention. Every detail of the rear assembly reflects Yeoh’s dedication to precision and style, with each element meticulously selected to balance form and function.

 

The front end of the bike is no less extraordinary. A single-sided swingarm, fabricated from elegantly curved S-shaped tubular steel, houses a 21-inch hub center-steered wheel. This wheel, machined from a single block of solid aluminum, wears rugged 90/90 tires designed to tackle rough terrain. The steering mechanism is operated by dual push-pull cables, a simpler solution than the typical rose-jointed linkages, though Yeoh admits there’s room for refinement. Future plans include a redesign of the frame to incorporate hydraulic steering, aiming for enhanced precision and responsiveness.

The Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s custom spaceframe is crafted almost entirely from straight steel tube sections, except for its sleek, curved front swingarm. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)

Braking on the Valkyrie is equally impressive, featuring a combination of top-tier components. The front brake employs a Brembo radial-mount caliper from a BMW S1000 RR, clamping onto a 380mm Arlen disc, while the rear relies on the standard 220mm Brembo setup from the Ducati hub. These choices ensure that the bike’s stopping power matches its bold performance capabilities. Additional elements, such as the Japanese aftermarket Daytona switchgear and instrumentation, seamlessly integrate modern functionality into this extraordinary machine.

The Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s offset final-drive chain was needed to clear the huge 240/45 rear gumball. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)

Despite its imposing appearance, the Valkyrie is surprisingly light, tipping the scales at just 200kg in running condition. This is a testament to the thoughtful engineering and innovative construction techniques employed in its design. The spaceframe structure was carefully planned to maximize strength while minimizing weight, and the body panels, produced using advanced 3D printing technology, are another stroke of genius. These panels are ribbed for structural integrity but remain paper-thin in less critical areas, reducing weight without compromising durability.

The Kenstomoto Valkyrie features a 240/45 R17 rear tire mounted on a nine-inch-wide rear wheel. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)

The Valkyrie is more than a motorcycle; it is a testament to Kenny Yeoh’s vision and skill. By combining cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship, he has created a machine that not only turns heads but also redefines what a custom motorcycle can achieve. For enthusiasts and casual admirers alike, the Valkyrie represents the boundless potential of human creativity, proving that the art of motorcycle building is alive and thriving in the hands of innovators like Yeoh.

Through this incredible creation, Kenstomoto has solidified its reputation as a leader in the world of bespoke motorcycles. The Valkyrie is not just a bike; it is a story, a dream brought to life, and a celebration of engineering brilliance. As Yeoh looks ahead to further refinements and future projects, one thing is certain: his passion for pushing the boundaries of design will continue to inspire and amaze, leaving an indelible mark on the world of custom motorcycles.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KENTSOMOTO ON FACEBOOK | IOL.CO.ZA | PAULTAN ]

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White Motorcycle Concepts & Pininfarina Unveil Aerodynamic Hybrid Bike Design

Velocity Redefined - Innovation in motorcycle design has always been about pushing the limits of speed, efficiency, and aesthetics. From groundbreaking engine technologies to futuristic aerodynamics, every major leap forward has shaped the way we experience two-wheeled machines. Now, a bold new collaboration between British technology specialists White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) and legendary Italian design house Pininfarina is set to redefine what’s possible in the realm of motorcycle aerodynamics.

White Motorcycle Concepts design sketch in collaboration with the legendary Italian design house Pininfarina. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

WMC first gained attention in 2021 with their WMC250EV, a land speed record electric bike that introduced an innovative aerodynamic duct system—a large cylindrical hole running through the body. This radical design reduced drag by an astonishing 70% compared to traditional road bikes. Since then, WMC has continued refining its aerodynamic technology, incorporating it into projects such as the hybrid WMC300FR three-wheeler used by Northamptonshire Police and a unique concept based on the Zero SR/S.

WMC’s duct concept focuses on enhancing efficiency across all power sources—electric, hybrid, or combustion—by reducing aerodynamic resistance for improved performance and fuel economy. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

The core philosophy behind WMC’s duct concept is simple: improving efficiency regardless of the power source. Whether it’s an electric, hybrid, or conventional combustion engine, reducing aerodynamic resistance leads to better performance and fuel economy. This principle has now been elevated to a new level through the partnership with Pininfarina. With decades of experience designing some of the world’s most beautiful supercars—most notably in collaboration with Ferrari—Pininfarina brings an unmatched understanding of both form and function to the project.

On March 6, at Pininfarina’s 95th anniversary celebration, WMC founder Robert White showcased how their patented aerodynamic duct system could transform future motorcycles. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

On March 6, during Pininfarina’s 95th anniversary celebrations, WMC’s founder, Robert White, was invited to showcase how their patented aerodynamic duct system could revolutionize future motorcycles. The first tangible outcome of this partnership is an exciting new set of design sketches, revealing a striking naked roadster. This machine integrates WMC’s signature duct system while being powered by a small, forced-induction combustion engine paired with a hybrid system. As with previous iterations, the air is funneled through the bike from beneath the handlebars and exits beneath the seat, dramatically reducing drag and enhancing efficiency.

The first result of this partnership is a striking naked roadster design, featuring WMC’s signature duct system and a small forced-induction hybrid engine that channels air from beneath the handlebars to exit under the seat, significantly reducing drag and improving efficiency. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

Pininfarina’s expertise in aerodynamics extends beyond cars, as their wind tunnel facilities—operational since 1972—allow precise testing of airflow dynamics and rider comfort. Their ability to evaluate real-world conditions using test riders or dummies ensures that the designs aren’t just visually appealing but also functionally superior. | 35XcavKcTO0 |

Combining WMC’s cutting-edge aerodynamics with Pininfarina’s design expertise, this collaboration marks an exciting leap in motorcycle development, bringing futuristic concepts to life with unmatched efficiency, style, and performance.

 

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WHITE MOTORCYCLE CONCEPTS | MOTORCYCLENEWS | VISORDOWN ]

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Yamaha FFE 350: Revolutionary Forkless Custom Motorcycle

Radical Engineering - Motorcycle design has always been a delicate balance between innovation and practicality. Most manufacturers stick to conventional engineering, favoring tried-and-true methods that ensure reliability and ease of production. This is particularly evident in suspension design, where telescopic forks dominate the industry despite their well-documented shortcomings.

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350, crafted by Julian Farnam, is a forkless custom motorcycle built upon the iconic 1990s Yamaha RZ350 two-stroke racer. (Picture from: Silodrome)

However, for those willing to challenge the norm, alternative front suspension systems offer intriguing possibilities—something Julian Farnam understood when he set out to create a motorcycle that defied tradition. With a passion for engineering and a desire to push boundaries, Farnam took on the challenge of building a forkless front suspension system of his own. 

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350's most radical feature is Julian Farnam's signature Forkless Front End (FFE) design, completely eliminating the standard fork. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

Lacking the massive resources of big-name manufacturers, he relied on skill, ingenuity, and sheer determination to bring his vision to life. The result was the Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350—a remarkable machine that looks less like a home-built custom and more like an advanced prototype from a major factory R&D department. 

The remarkable Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 resembles an advanced factory prototype rather than a home-built custom. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

At its core, the FFE 350 is based on a Yamaha RZ350, a legendary two-stroke racer from the 1990s. Farnam’s modifications, however, set it apart from anything else on the road. The most radical change was his signature Forkless Front End (FFE) design, which completely eliminated the standard front fork. 

While forkless designs avoid traditional fork issues, they introduce challenges like slop and vibration, which Julian Farnam mitigated using tensioned dual linkages for a precise, connected feel. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

Traditional telescopic forks, despite their widespread use, have inherent issues such as flexing under load and changes in geometry under braking. By removing the forks and implementing a system of linkages, Farnam aimed to create a more stable and responsive front suspension. Of course, forkless designs come with their own engineering challenges. They require intricate linkage systems, which, if not properly designed, can introduce slop and unwanted vibrations.

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 features a custom twin-tube cradle frame without a headstock or backbone, using gusseted brackets for front suspension mounting. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

Farnam addressed this challenge with two sets of tensioned linkages, eliminating play and delivering a direct, connected feel akin to conventional forks—without their drawbacks. The result was a precision-handling bike that offered a truly unique riding experience. Following the completion of the FFE 350, Julian launched his own frame company, A-N-D Vehicles, but despite praise from seasoned racers and impressive performance, the venture ultimately did not succeed.

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 retains an OEM look with a standard RZ tank and a modified Ducati 916 tail, while its unfaired design showcases the innovative front suspension. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

The FFE 350 wasn’t just a concept or a showpiece—it was a fully functional machine that saw track action in Southern California, proving its capabilities in real-world conditions. However, despite its performance advantages, the radical design never gained commercial traction, and the bike eventually found its way into storage. Yet, true to his passion, Farnam remains dedicated to his creation. As of recent years, he has been working to restore the FFE 350 to its former glory, keeping alive the spirit of innovation that first inspired him to build it. | WsCtsyrXzFk |

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 was more than just a showpiece—it tore up local tracks in Southern California with impressive performance. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

In an industry where convention often takes precedence over experimentation, projects like the Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 serve as reminders that true progress comes from those willing to challenge the status quo. Farnam’s work stands as both an engineering marvel and a testament to the creativity of independent builders—proving that sometimes, the best ideas come from outside the mainstream.

 

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CUSTOMFIGHTERS  | ODD-BIKE | SILODROME | HACKADAY ]

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