Randys Cycle Service & Restoration: 1985 Yamaha XV700 Virago

Seen in Ashville, NC

September 2003

CUSTOMIZING

1985 Yamaha XV700 Virago Modified to look like a V

The initial fitment of a Harley-Davidson FLH fuel tank to a 1985 Yamaha XV700 Virago.

We used the center section of a Honda CB 650 fuel tank for a gauge and filler panel on this ultra-wide tank.

Here is how the mounts were worked into the original frame.

In the rear, we installed fender struts from a Harley Sportster to mounts a Harley rear fender.

A Harley fender, tombstone taillight, and low-rise bracket give the rear of the bike a fatter look than stock.

The Yamaha 700 Virago was originally equipped with alloy wheels. For the look the customer wanted, these had to go.

Spoke wheels with a narrower FLH fender and polished fork tubes and calipers really changed the whole look of the front end.

BEFORE: The engine was drab, dull and weathered.

AFTER: The engine was detailed, cleaned, polished, and painted engine complete with stainless hardware.

With all the customer body work, a custom seat was built to fit the new style and shape of this bike.

Soft glove leather was used to cover the driver, passenger, and backrest cushions. The tank panel was also covered in matching leather.

Since no one manufactures forward controls for the XV700, we built these custom controls just for this job. Here is the shifter side control. These contols took 6 hours to create.

This is the brake side forward control.

The paint name was "jewel garent polly."

THE FINISHED BIKE

We used an air filter from a Yamaha V-Star 1100.

The exhaust system has a right side exit, custom- built for this project.

Diamond plate aluminum was used for the heat shields and trim in various places on the bike.

A very attractive bike with a one-of-a-kind custom look.

Diamond plate on the lower exhaust header pipes

BEFORE: a stock 1985

Yamaha XV700 Virago

NOTE: All customization projects require the bike be at our shop - No exceptions

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Located in beautiful Central Virginia since 2001

8175 Black Walnut Run Road, Rhoadesville, VA 22542 USA

Service by Appointment ~ Closed Sunday & Monday

The Mid-Atlantic Region Premier Restorer of

Vintage Motorcycles from the 50s, 60s & 70s

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