This 1982 Yamaha XS650SJ began as a factory "cruiser". At 1,091 miles, it was converted to an Old English style CafeRacer using NOS, reconditioned, and aftermarket "period" parts. Modifications include; XS1100 front wheel and dual disc brakes with stainless steel lines, 16mm master cylinder, altered fork dampening, fork brace, halogen headlight, fiberglass fairing, white face gauges, steering damper, fiberglass tank, fiberglass seat/tail section, rearset pegs with engine turned mount plates, 18" XS500 rear wheel, disc and braced swingarm, Redwing shocks and a Lucas-style taillight. Except for air filters, jetting, and exhaust, the engine remains original stock. The Black Dragon was built to show what the venerable XS650 may have been had Yamaha followed British culture rather than the American "chopper" scene.

photography: caferac999