At first glance we figured this was a Roland Sands build, but once we saw the names attached we knew something was up. Obviously this 2008 Hayabusa is plastered with parts from Performance Machine and RSD, but even more representative of Sands’ SoCal style is the familiar paint scheme. A large, retro number plate wrapped in gold leaf looks familiar indeed. But what better way for a bike builder in Sweden to get noticed than to pay homage to one of the masters of the custom bike world?
Swedish builder David Sjölund did an excellent job of mixing an aesthetically pleasing exterior with a bike that still handles and functions—something Mr. Sands would appreciate, no doubt. With a sensible 240mm rear tire connected to the frame via a Trac Dynamics swingarm and Öhlins shock this bike could still get down the strip in a hurry. Forks with the blue badge match the shock, while the engine has been beefed up with a Vance and Hines drag pipe, K&N air filter and Power Commander to keep fueling optimized.
Did David steal some of Sand’s flair? Naw, he simply gave him a tip of his tuning cap and offered up massive respect.
2008 Suzuki Hayabusa
Front end: Öhlins forks, RSD triple clamp, Performance Machine calipers, Performance Machine “Heathen” wheel
Rear end: Trac Dynamics six-over swingarm, Avon 240mm tire, Öhlins shock, Performance Machine “Heathen” wheel
Motor: K&N air filter, Power Commander V, Vance and Hines “Indy” exhaust
Paint: Bo Jensen
Accessories: KDK Performance lowering links and footpegs, Performance Machine bar ends, master cylinder covers and triple clamp
Builder: David Sjölund