Flashy paint, shiny chrome and loud exhaust are the easiest way to get plenty of attention. But sometimes it's the bike that sneaks in under the radar that leaves a lasting impression. That seems to be Kory Souza's motto, and he has caught the custom bike scene off guard by refusing to follow the trends. While this R1 was one of his first builds, it has proven to be one of his most popular. "My buddy Chris brought me the bike stock and told me to do whatever I wanted with it. It was only the second sportbike I had ever built, but everyone always asks about it," explained Souza.
The secret to the success was to build a condo instead of a castle. By selecting a few select low-key parts and pieces, Souza was able to achieve a dark and savage design. For starters, the RSD wheels have just enough flash to look custom, but keep the vanity to a minimum. The black sprocket and chain blend with the bike and even the chrome caliper was hit with Scotch Brite to give it a subtle appearance. Perhaps the cleverest use of commerce was the exhaust that was purchased at a local car parts store. "The exhaust system is for a car from Pep Boys. All I did was machine the logo off and heat coat it black. There is only about $13,000 in the entire build, including the bike!"
It's the paint that truly defines the theme and the pinstripes and panels have become Souza's signature style. Inside the flat blue body are black slabs with artwork inspired from a snowboarding hoodie. "Those graphics are hand painted and from an article of clothing I found. I just rearranged them and also hid some random stuff. I think it's unique because it's all flat colors. The blue and black is tough to get to work together but it did. I don't know what it is. It's just clean."
The custom scene is all about personal style and Souza proves you don't have spend big bucks to have a huge impact. While everyone might be watching the loudest guy at the bar, often it's the wallflower who takes home the girl.
2003 Yamaha R1
Front end: RSD 18-inch "Diesel" wheel, Metzler tire
Rear end: Myrtle West 8-over 300 swingarm, Arnott air ride suspension, Black EK chains, Metzler 300 rear tire, RSD "Diesel" wheel, Vortex sprocket, Myrtle West rear rotor, Performance Machine rear brake caliper
Motor: K&N air filter, custom slip-on, Vortex sprockets
Paint: Keith Hanson Designs, Kory Souza, Perewitz
Polish/chrome: Matte black powder coating and scotch bright
Bodywork: Kory Souza
Accessories: HIDs, custom suede seat, CRG levers, Rizoma grips, front and rear master cylinders, RSD frame sliders, Vortex gas cap, intergraded taillight, custom swingarm cover and mounting kit for air ride compressor
Owner: Chris Hunt
Builder: Kory Souza