Modern superbikes are complex machines, both inside and out. Not only have their engines and electronics evolved in leaps and bounds over the past couple of decades, but their bodywork has changed radically too. The the aerodynamic packages developed for MotoGP racing are trickling down to street bikes now, so OEM superbikes with wings poking out of their fairings are commonplace.
Like many of us, Josh Merrill misses the days of fast bikes with slabby fairings… so he’s built one of his own. Based on a 2022-spec Yamaha XSR900, and wrapped in 90s race replica bodywork, his latest custom build is a modern classic of the highest order.
Technically the Yamaha XSR900 isn’t classified as a superbike—but it’s not far off.…