Japanese Custom Sportbikes - East Meets West

When considering Japanese culture, images of sushi, Samurai and Geisha girls typically come to mind. In reality, Japan has always been fascinated with American style, culture, clothing and machines. The West influences much of the fashion, music and cars, and the custom sportbike takeover has spread to most parts of the globe. The chromed and stretched custom bike market can be added to the list of Americana being mimicked by our friends overseas-much in the same way that pimply-faced American teenagers lust over the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars, the reverse seems to be true for custom bikes with American influence.

Not many full-blown custom bikes can be ridden hard on the track because wide tires and tons of show and shine keep many owners from risking their prized possessions. This 2002 Honda CBR954RR is not only one of the most exotic bikes in Japan, but also sees a regular track day now and again.

Owner and builder Hiro started with an HRC-built motor that breathes through an Asahina exhaust system. TSR Racing added a Showa race suspension and Brembo brakes that help make the bike handle better than its good looks would otherwise reveal.

A full stereo system includes speakers hooked up to an iPod with integrated video screens in the mirrors that act as rear cameras when the bike is in gear and monitors when parked in neutral. The mirrors also house digital gauges that include read-outs for mph and voltage. Judging by the tires' wear pattern on the Performance Machine Roulette wheels, it's obvious this bike isn't just for going straight.

The Buyer's Box
JZ's 50 Cents: "The combination of race-inspired parts and modern-day electronics make this a hot custom no matter where it's from."

Original Make/Model: 2002 Honda CBR954RR
Front end: Showa suspension, Brembo calipers, Performance Machine "Roulette" wheel
Rear end: Showa rear shock, Performance Machine "Roulette" wheel
Motor: HRC tuned, Asahina full exhaust
Paint: N/A
Polish/chrome: N/A
Bodywork: Carbon fiber with integrated HID headlight, TSR racing gas tank
Accessories: iPod with integrated screens in the mirrors, TSR rearsets
Other: Hand inset crystals, suede seat
Owner: Hiro
Builder: Hiro

The Buyer's Box

JZ's 50 Cents: "This is a great use of paint to make a bike really stand out. The red accents combined with the searing bright white paint give it a modern look without being overly artistic or comical. The matching seats complete the look for a truly inspirational bike for those that can only afford chrome and paint."

Original Make/Model: 2005 Suzuki GSX-R1000
Front end: Carbon fiber fender
Rear end: Carbon fiber fender
Motor: Micron high-mount exhaust
Paint: ATA Paint
Polish/chrome: N/A
Bodywork: Stock
Accessories: Color-matched seat
Other: Relocated number plate
Owner: Platinum Hearts
Builder: Platinum Hearts