A Cafe Racer with Style and Serious Performance to Match: YAMAHA SR400 Custom by Orange Boulevard

Orange Boulevard's SR400

Among the many custom styles out there—trackers, bobbers, choppers—one that continues to enjoy lasting popularity is the cafe racer. This build, created by long-established SR custom shop Orange Boulevard, perfectly embodies the shop’s specialty: a sleek cafe silhouette with a touch of race-bred edge.

Though the machine clearly aims for performance, it still retains a strong connection to the original SR400. The stock fuel tank remains in place as the visual centerpiece, and the frame has been left unmodified—choices that preserve the bike’s unmistakable SR character. Aluminum parts are used extensively, from the front and rear fenders to the smaller accents, while the blacked-out rims give the whole package a bold, timeless presence.

But when it comes to how it rides, it tells a completely different story. The engine has been big bored to 510cc and paired with OMC heavy flywheel weights for stronger torque. Handling is also greatly improved with 18-inch Excel rims front and rear, combined with Ohlins suspension for better cornering performance. The intake and exhaust systems use the shop’s original OMC VPSS exhaust and an FCR carburetor. These, along with other original parts used throughout, make for a heavily customized build that performs far beyond stock. It’s a high-performance SR that still keeps the original’s classic feel. If you love the SR’s look but want a more exciting ride, this is the perfect machine for you.

Handlebar

The bike uses the stock switchgears for easy operation. The combination of MAGURA clip-on handlebars and a classic-style DAYTONA gauge creates a vintage look.

Electrical

A French-made CIBIE headlight was chosen for its classic shape and perfect fit with the SR’s style.

Bodywork

The stock tank is repainted in gunmetal, giving the bike a solid look when paired with the aluminum and black bodywork.

A BORE-ACE Mark 1 seat is used. It fits the frame perfectly without needing any frame modification, showing off excellent craftsmanship.

The area under the seat has been neatly organized, with the ETC unit and electrical components compactly arranged. This “Skatune” style gives the bike a light, race-inspired feel. (“Skatune” refers to a custom where the side of the bike is so open you can see through it.)

Intake & Exhaust

The tapered OMC VPSS silencer gives the bike a race-ready look. Remove the inner silencer, and it’s ready for the track—performance is guaranteed.

Chassis

The rearsets, essential for a cafe-style build, are made by BORE-ACE. They’re trusted parts used on many SR cafe projects for their performance and proven track record.

The front and rear rims are blacked out for a sharper look. Ohlins shocks without external reservoir tanks were chosen to keep the bike’s classic style while boosting ride quality.

Gallery

Specifications

Original Source of this Article

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