Featured Build: Honda GL650 Cafe Racer by Mantas Simanauskas

Today we are featuring a GL650 cafe racer build from Lithuania – only the second GL650 on the list. The bike in question:

Honda GL650 Cafe Racer by Mantas Taspats from Lithuania

When he picked it up the frame and fairings had been left out in the elements a little too long, so Mantas stripped the bike back to the frame and had it and the wheels powdercoated black. The tappet covers were also blacked out, and the exhaust headers were given the same treatment. The colour is a one-off by Mantas’ friends.

Honda GL650 Cafe Racer by Mantas Taspats from Lithuania

Mantas made the seat, seat pan and tail piece himself out of fibreglass. The exhausts are stock, and the H-box has been retained.

Honda GL650 Cafe Racer by Mantas Taspats from Lithuania

Mantas was drawn to the GL650’s unusual engine layout and longevity, and after seeing many CX500 custom builds he wanted to see what could be done with the GL650 as a platform. Apparently neither CXs nor GLs are common in Lithuania, so he had to source parts from many other countries!

Honda GL650 Cafe Racer by Mantas Taspats from Lithuania

Fork gaiters up front complete the cafe racer look. The single gauge covers speed and has a neutral light, indicator lights and a high beam light.

Honda GL650 Cafe Racer by Mantas Taspats from Lithuania

Photos provided and used with permission! One last photo… the “before” bike:

Honda GL650 Cafe Racer by Mantas Taspats from Lithuania

For more inspiration check out the other builds on the list!

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