We're all aware of the German streetfighter style: massively jacked up rear end, loads of one-off parts and an overall package that usually seems to be more parody than appealing. Despite a few arguable extras on the Hellspawn that may fit the latter notion, for the most part we simply couldn't ignore this Yamaha FZ1, particularly when you consider its original existence as a detuned and destyled R1.
We actually turn a lot of bikes away from our pages that were born in Germany simply because they're just too outrageous and esoteric. That's not to say that a 17-foot long 'Busa with full surround sound system and 42-inch plasmas is standard on US soil, but a lot of people can at least get their head around what they're looking at.
While it's likely not DOT...
While it's likely not DOT approved, the tail is pretty wicked. Unique left exit pipes add an extra custom touch.
The chain and blade concept...
The chain and blade concept continues throughout the bike, here serving as the exhaust hanger.
Motogadget's minuscule gauge...
Motogadget's minuscule gauge cluster was moulded into the tank perfectly.
This FZ1 is something to behold, and while its quirky wide bars and jacked tail are bizarre at best, there are other elements that take custom tuning to places many haven't even considered. But when Hell is on your side apparently anything is possible.
Todd McFarlane's Spawn was...
Todd McFarlane's Spawn was the obvious influence for the FZ1's demonic theme.
We don't typically see chains...
We don't typically see chains and blades as decoration for fork tubes.
2006 Yamaha FZ1
Front end: RF Biketech triple trees, Bimbo fender, Rizoma grips and mirrors, Thunderbike wheel and rotor
Rear end: Custom subframe by BCB, Thunderbike wheel (310 mm tire) and rotor
Motor: Custom exhaust by BCB
Paint: Sandra at dragonmoon.de
Owner: Andreas Frank
Builder: Brandy's Custom Bikes (brandys-custom-bikes.com)