The most popular Honda custom bikes
Honda stands not only for sporty naked bikes, but also for motorcycles with strong character, classic design and a relaxed riding feel - the Honda custom bike and custom motorcycle range. In the custom and cruiser motorcycle segment, Honda combines authentic style with modern technology and reliable everyday usability. From the purist retro machine to the powerful cruiser with state-of-the-art electronics, Honda offers custom bike motorcycles that stand out through personality, comfort and riding enjoyment. The custom styles range from the bobber motorcycle through the scrambler motorcycle to the cafe racer and chopper motorcycle.
A factory custom bike is only the beginning for many riders: handlebar, seat, exhaust system, lighting or footpegs can all be adapted without character or everyday usability suffering.
We carry out conversions and customising in our own workshop in Volketswil – with an eye on type approval and warranty. You can find out what is possible and what it costs under Motorcycle workshop, conversion and service.
Motorrad Zürich AG offers a large selection of Honda custom bike and cruiser models. Whether classic retro roadster, modern scrambler or powerful cruiser – with us you will find the right Honda custom motorcycle for your personal riding style. Our team will gladly advise you and accompany you on the way to your new dream custom bike.
Every Honda custom bike available at Honda Motorrad Zürich in Volketswil – with colour, version and price.
Rent it before you buy: Honda CMX1100 Rebel Touring rental from CHF 220/day · Honda CMX500 Rebel rental from CHF 135/day
I am interested in one of these motorcycles
I am interestedAll prices are non-binding and may change at any time. For a binding quote please enquire preferably via the form.
The Honda GB350 custom motorcycle embodies classic motorcycle engineering in its purest form. With its timeless retro design, air-cooled single-cylinder engine and relaxed seating position, it recalls the traditional roadsters of past decades – combined with modern Honda technology.
The 348 cc single cylinder delivers around 15 kW and impresses above all with its pleasant torque and a particularly smooth, refined running character. The low seat height and good-natured handling make the GB350 a very accessible motorcycle that appeals to beginners and lovers of classic custom bikes alike.
The GB350 is aimed at custom bike riders looking for a purist motorcycle with authentic character. Its minimalist design, classic engine and relaxed ergonomics turn every ride into a stylish experience. Its slim silhouette also makes it a popular basis for a cafe racer conversion.
A retro motorcycle lives on clean lines: a round headlight, a visible frame, a classic tank. Honda covers this style with two models. The GB350 is the calm retro bike with a single-cylinder engine and an upright riding position; the CL500 takes the retro look in a scrambler direction.
If you are looking for a retro motorcycle as a conversion base, both work well: parts are available, the technology is straightforward, and the character of the machine already carries the build. Whether as a retro bike straight from the factory or as the starting point for a cafe racer – the machines currently available are listed further down this page (prices are non-binding and subject to change).
Honda genuine accessories for the GB350 cover exactly the areas that turn a retro roadster into a cafe racer: seat, front end and handlebar. The single-seat cowl visually turns the seat into a solo unit, headlight cowl and meter visor sharpen the front, and the machined aluminium grip ends finish off the handlebar. We fit every part with genuine mounting hardware in our own workshop – no drilling into the frame.
For everyday riding and touring there are left and right saddlebags, a rear seat bag, heated grips with five settings, a Type-C USB charger and a long visor. Honda also offers the parts as a Style Pack and a Travel Pack; both packs can be combined. Prices non-binding, subject to change at any time.
I am interested in accessories for the Honda GB350
Ask about accessories| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| Accessory packs | ||
| Style PackDesign and protection parts as a set, combinable with the Travel Pack | 08HME-K0Z-STY | approx. CHF 540 |
| Travel PackLuggage and comfort as a set, combinable with the Style Pack | 08HME-K0Z-TRA | approx. CHF 545 |
| Design | ||
| Single seat cowlSturdy polycarbonate, Mat Axis Gray Metallic | 08F70-K0Z-D20ZB | approx. CHF 195 |
| Headlight cowlPolycarbonate, deflects air; cannot be fitted with the meter visor or long visor | 08F81-K0Z-D10ZC | approx. CHF 105 |
| Grip endsMachined aluminium; cannot be fitted with heated grips or knuckle guards | 08F79-K0Z-D10 | approx. CHF 8 |
| Protection | ||
| Meter visor260 mm wide, 155 mm high, 3.2 mm thick | 08R70-K0Z-J21 | approx. CHF 45 |
| Engine upper pipeRobust 28.6 mm steel tube, matt black, 508 × 260 mm; not designed as engine crash protection and cannot be used together with an external engine guard; base for the fog lights | 08F70-K0Z-D00ZA | approx. CHF 29 |
| Side tank padsHigh-quality rubber, weather resistant, improves knee grip | 08P70-K0Z-D10 | approx. CHF 19 |
| Knuckle guardsRigid polypropylene, black, 112 × 228 mm; cannot be fitted with grip ends or heated grips | 08P73-K0Z-D10ZB | approx. CHF 50 |
| LED fog lightsSet including attachment 08V79-K3R-D00; engine upper pipe required | 08ESY-K0Z-FL | approx. CHF 205 |
| Luggage | ||
| Left saddlebag14 litres, 3.0 kg load, waterproof inner bag, three-point adapter | 08ESY-K0Z-LSB | approx. CHF 220 |
| Right saddlebag10 litres, 1.0 kg load, waterproof inner bag, three-point adapter | 08ESY-K0Z-SSB | approx. CHF 205 |
| Rear seat bag15 litres, expandable to 22 litres, rain cover, shaped for the rear seat | 08ESY-K0Z-RSB | approx. CHF 115 |
| Comfort | ||
| Heated gripsFive settings, memory function, circuit prevents battery drain | 08ESY-K0Z-GH | approx. CHF 290 |
| Long visor320 mm wide, 355 mm high; cannot be fitted with meter visor or headlight cowl | 08R72-K0Z-D10 | approx. CHF 70 |
| USB chargerType-C, horizontal mount, identifies the device automatically | 08U00-K0Z-E00 | approx. CHF 45 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Some parts exclude each other – we clarify which combination suits your GB350 before ordering, based on the frame number.
I am interested in accessories for the Honda GB350
Ask about accessoriesAll prices are non-binding and subject to change. For a binding quote please enquire preferably via the form. Fitting in our own motorcycle workshop; labour is not included in the part price.
Accessories Honda GB350Honda accessory brochure 2026 for the GB350 (German) with picture, part number and price · PDF · 4 pages · 6.1 MBOpen PDF
The CL500 combines the spirit of classic scramblers with modern technology and versatile uses as a custom motorcycle. Its distinctive look with a high-mounted exhaust, rugged design and upright seating position gives it an unmistakable custom bike presence.
The proven 471 cc parallel twin delivers 34 kW and provides a pleasant balance of power and control. This makes the CL500 ideal for relaxed tours, city traffic or spontaneous trips on smaller side roads and gravel tracks.
The CL500 is particularly attractive for riders looking for an individual motorcycle with lifestyle character. It combines scrambler looks, modern technology and everyday usability in a stylish overall custom bike package.
I am interested in accessories for the Honda CL500
Ask about accessories| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| Accessory packages | ||
| Style packageRear side cover, front mudguard, hand deflectors and windscreen in black, plus stickers and shock absorber cover | 08HME-MLP-STS | approx. CHF 425 |
| Style package WhiteThe same design parts in white with black headlight stickers | 08HME-MLP-STSW | approx. CHF 425 |
| Travel packageUSB socket, right pannier with carrier, heated grips including mounting kit and adjustable brake lever | 08HME-MLP-TRS | approx. CHF 550 |
| Adventure package17 and 19 inch rim stickers, centre tank pad, higher seat and rally footpegs | 08HME-MLP-ADS | approx. CHF 295 |
| Safety & design | ||
| Side coversLight, hard-wearing polypropylene resin that reinforces the scrambler look; white or black | 08F71-K3S-JA0 / 08F71-K3S-JB0 | approx. CHF 50 |
| Front mudguardMatched to the bike design, with a lower fender protecting the brake line; white or black | 08F72-K3S-JA0 / 08F70-K3S-JB0 | approx. CHF 120 |
| Hand deflectorsGuide air around hands and arms and keep flying debris away; white or black | 08P71-K3S-JA0 / 08P70-K3S-JB0 | approx. CHF 85 |
| WindscreenDeveloped specifically for the CL500, deflects the wind; matching sticker available separately | 08R71-K3S-JA0 / 08R70-K3S-JB0 | approx. CHF 175 |
| Shock absorber coverProtects the rear suspension, light polypropylene in black | 08F73-K3S-JA0 | approx. CHF 25 |
| Side cover sticker setAdds a colour stripe to the rear side cover; black or grey | 08F77-K3S-JA0ZA / 08F72-K3S-JB0ZD | approx. CHF 10 |
| Windscreen sticker setMatches the headlight visor, black or grey | 08F76-K3S-JA0ZA / 08F73-K3S-JB0ZB | approx. CHF 9 |
| Centre tank padWith Honda logo, protects the tank paint from scratches and abrasion | 08P70-K3S-JA0 | approx. CHF 25 |
| Rim stickersWeather resistant, one set per size: 17 inch rear, 19 inch front | 08F74-K3S-JA0ZA / 08F75-K3S-JA0ZA | approx. CHF 25 |
| Rally footpegsWide profile with spike shape against slipping, more stability off-road | 08R72-K3S-JA0 | approx. CHF 180 |
| Higher seat30 mm higher, brown leather with black stitching and Honda logo | 08R70-K3S-JA0ZC | approx. CHF 95 |
| Luggage | ||
| 38 l top boxFits a helmet, operated with the ignition key; 6 kg capacity, carrier and locks included | 08ESY-MLP-TB38 | approx. CHF 530 |
| Top box backrestPolyurethane foam for the pillion, fitted without drilling | 08F00-MJP-G50 | approx. CHF 110 |
| Inner bag for 38 l top boxBlack nylon, expandable from 15 to 25 litres, with shoulder strap | 08L75-MJP-G51 | approx. CHF 65 |
| Rear carrierWith grab handles for the pillion and six rope hooks for a secure load | 08L70-K3S-JA0 | approx. CHF 180 |
| Left pannierBallistic nylon, 14 litres, 3.0 kg load, waterproof inner bag; bracket separate | 08L05-K87-A31 | approx. CHF 145 |
| Pannier carrierAdapter for mounting the panniers, bags not included | 08L71-K3S-JA1 | approx. CHF 105 |
| Comfort | ||
| Heated grips360 degree heat, five levels, integrated circuit against battery discharge | 08ESY-MLP-GHS | approx. CHF 250 |
| 12V socketFor powering or charging electrical devices | 08E70-K3S-JA0 | approx. CHF 45 |
| Adjustable brake leverFive positions, adjustment range around 6 mm | 08U70-K3S-JA0 | approx. CHF 40 |
All prices non-binding, subject to change at any time · fitting costs not included.
I am interested in accessories for the Honda CL500
Ask about accessoriesAll prices are non-binding and subject to change. For a binding quote please enquire preferably via the form. Fitting in our own motorcycle workshop; labour is not included in the part price.
Accessories Honda CL500Honda accessory brochure 2026 for the CL500 (German) with picture, part number and price · PDF · 4 pages · 7.3 MBOpen PDF
The bobber is the most pared-back custom bike style: short mudguards, a low centre of gravity, a minimalist line. At Honda that role is filled by the Honda Rebel 500 – listed as the CMX500 Rebel in the vehicle documents, with 471 cc, a low seat and a relaxed riding position.
A bobber is a rewarding base to build on: handlebar, seat and exhaust set the character without spoiling everyday usability.
Models, versions, accessories and availability are on our page for the Honda Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100.
The cruiser stands for relaxed riding with a low centre of gravity and a long wheelbase. In Honda’s custom bike range that job goes to the Honda Rebel 1100 with the 1,084 cc twin from the Africa Twin, optionally with a dual clutch transmission.
Customising a cruiser usually runs through the handlebar, seat, exhaust and footpegs – we carry that out in our own workshop in Volketswil ZH.
The individual versions – manual, DCT, Touring and Special Edition – are described on our page for the Honda Rebel.
Alongside the standard versions there are custom cruisers with exclusive design and equipment details: their own paint schemes, higher-grade design elements and extra equipment – technically on the familiar base, visually far more distinctive.
For many riders that is the shortest route to an individual look: from the factory, road legal and without any conversion work.
Which Special Edition is available right now is shown on our page for the Honda Rebel.
Custom bike is the umbrella term – several style directions sit beneath it. Which one suits you decides the choice of model. With the Honda Rebel 500, the Honda Rebel 1100, the Honda GB350 and the Honda CL500, Honda covers four of these styles.
A bobber is a custom bike from which everything superfluous has been left out: short mudguards, a low centre of gravity, a minimalist line. The bobber motorcycle from Honda is the Honda Rebel 500. As the Honda CMX500 Rebel it is approved for category A restricted, the Honda CMX500 weighs little and has a very low seat height – the classic way into the bobber segment.
The cruiser stands for relaxed riding with a low centre of gravity and a long wheelbase. The cruiser motorcycle in the Honda custom bike range is the Honda Rebel 1100. The CMX1100 Rebel uses the 1084 cc twin from the Africa Twin and is available with DCT automatic transmission – a custom motorcycle for long distances.
You recognise the scrambler motorcycle by its high-mounted exhaust, upright seating position and rugged appearance. The scrambler from Honda is the Honda CL500. It handles the road just as confidently as gravel – and it is at the same time the best conversion base in its class for a cafe racer or coffee racer.
The cafe racer – often also written coffee racer – is the sportiest custom bike style: clip-on handlebars, a stretched riding position, a short rear end. With the Honda CL500 and the Honda GB350, Honda supplies two ideal base motorcycles for a cafe racer conversion. Both have the visible steel tube frame and the classic basic geometry that a credible coffee racer needs.
The chopper motorcycle is the closest relative of the bobber motorcycle: a long fork angle, a stretched silhouette, strong individualisation. Honda does not offer a factory chopper motorcycle – anyone who wants to take a custom bike towards chopper looks works through the handlebar, the seat and the chassis. The Honda Rebel 500 as the Honda CMX500 Rebel and the Honda Rebel 1100 are the obvious starting points for a chopper motorcycle thanks to their minimalist line.
Which style suits your riding profile is something we clarify in conversation – together with the question of what should be converted on the chosen custom motorcycle and which of it requires registration.
Honda launched the CL500 in 2023 as a modern scrambler, inspired by the CL models of the sixties and seventies. What sounds on paper like a pure retro quotation is technically one of the most interesting conversion bases currently available in the category A restricted segment.
The reason lies in the construction. The CL500 uses a newly developed diamond-type steel tube frame, together with the proven 471 cm³ inline twin from the CB500 family with 34 kW and full approval for category A restricted. At the front a conventional 41 mm telescopic fork with 150 mm of travel does the work, at the rear a steel swingarm with twin shocks. The wheels measure 19 inches at the front and 17 inches at the rear, the seat height is 790 mm and the kerb weight around 192 kg.
For a conversion, however, three other points are decisive:
Visible steel tube frame. The CL500 does not hide its structure behind bodywork. Frame, swingarm, engine and shocks are part of the design. That is exactly the basic requirement for a credible cafe racer conversion – on a fully faired motorcycle the design has to be exposed first, here it is already open.
Classic basic geometry. Round headlight, rounded tank with knee pads, straight seat line, twin-sided swingarm with stereo shocks. These are exactly the elements a cafe racer consists of. Nothing has to be invented – it only has to be sharpened.
Shared platform. The CL500 shares its engine and basic chassis with the CB500 Hornet, CBR500R, NX500 and the CMX500 Rebel. That means a very wide range of parts, experience and accessories that can be adapted – and an engine that has been in series production for over a decade and whose durability is beyond question.
There is one more point that should not be underestimated: Honda itself has declared the CL500 a conversion base. At the custom competition around the Wheels and Waves festival in Biarritz in 2024, 16 CL500 conversions from nine countries were shown – from flat tracker through enduro homages to the cafe racer. The winner, of all things, was a cafe racer concept. The CL500 is therefore not a motorcycle where you work against its character. It is made for it.
The cafe racer emerged in London in the fifties and sixties: production motorcycles trimmed for speed and looks. Everything superfluous came off, the rider lay flat over the tank, the rear end became short and the silhouette a continuous line from the fork to the seat hump.
Translated to the CL500 that means three things:
The aim is not a show piece. A good conversion remains suitable for everyday use, safe in winter, serviceable and – very important in Switzerland – correctly registered.
The biggest visual lever. The standard rear frame of the CL500 is long and carries a pillion seat, grab handles and a high-set end. For the cafe racer look the rear is shortened and closed off with a cleanly rounded loop. On top comes a seat, executed either as a solo seat with a classic hump or as a flat two-person seat with a removable hump.
The possibilities in detail:
Important: Changes to the rear frame are frame modifications. They are feasible in Switzerland, but require clean workmanship and approval by the road traffic office. Anyone who clarifies this in advance has no problem. Anyone who notices it afterwards does.
This is where the riding feel is created. From the factory the CL500 sits upright with a wide handlebar and centrally positioned footpegs – deliberately comfortable. The coffee racer goes in the opposite direction:
A note from practice: the full cafe racer posture with low clip-ons and high pegs looks great, but is demanding on longer rides and in city traffic. We recommend a graduated solution to most customers – roughly 70 per cent cafe racer, 30 per cent everyday use. That can be determined during the first consultation on the basis of seating trials, before anything is built.
With its rounded shape the CL500 tank is already a cafe racer tank. As a rule it does not have to be replaced, only staged anew:
The choice of colour decides more about the effect than any individual add-on part. Dark, desaturated tones with a single contrasting accent look more sophisticated than multi-coloured concepts.
A cafe racer should not only look as if it goes round corners quickly. On a CL500 conversion a lot can be gained here, because the standard set-up is deliberately comfort-oriented with long suspension travel:
To be considered: suspension travel and ground clearance are linked. Anyone who lowers the bike significantly loses cornering clearance and comfort. The conflict between looks and rideability can be resolved, but not ignored.
The 19-inch front wheel is the last big scrambler marker on the CL500. Anyone who wants the cafe racer proportions in full goes to the substance here:
Changes in wheel size affect the speedometer, the geometry and the registration. They are the most elaborate single item of the whole conversion – but also the most effective. Anyone who wants to convert on a budget keeps the standard wheels and works through colour and tyres.
The raised scrambler exhaust with its perforated heat shield is one of the identifying features of the CL500 – and one of the biggest points of contention in a coffee racer conversion. Classically the system belongs low and horizontal beside the engine. Possible are:
Here the clearest rule of the whole conversion applies in Switzerland: only systems with a valid type approval or proof of conformity can be registered. The stationary noise level is measured and compared with the entry in the vehicle registration document. A system without papers is not a conversion but trouble announced in advance.
A note that regularly causes disappointment in Switzerland: a side-mounted number plate holder, as constantly seen in international custom photos, is not permitted here. The number plate must be mounted at the rear and in the prescribed position. We solve this visually with a slim, short holder – but the physics of the regulation remain.
Restrained. Handlebar, seat, mirrors, indicators, silencer, tyres, a few powder-coated parts. The CL500 remains recognisable but looks considerably sharper. A few days of workshop time, a manageable budget, unproblematic for registration.
Consistent. In addition a rear end conversion with a humped seat, new paintwork, rearsets, a chassis upgrade and a complete exhaust system. This is the range in which a scrambler actually becomes a coffee racer. Several weeks of build time, presentation at the road traffic office required.
Uncompromising. In addition a change of wheel size, bodywork, special fabrications and individually manufactured components. A one-off that is developed and documented according to a concept. Here we are talking about a project, not an order.
A conversion that is not entered in the vehicle registration document is a legal and insurance risk. The most important points:
A CL500 conversion can be realised in three ways: as a new vehicle converted directly from delivery, as a used machine bought as a project base, or on your own existing motorcycle. All three ways work. The new vehicle route has the advantage that the removed standard parts remain unused and can be refitted later – which helps considerably with any later resale. As a matter of principle we recommend keeping all removed original parts.
The most sensible time for a conversion is the winter season. Anyone who brings in their motorcycle in autumn collects it in spring fully registered and does not lose a single riding day. In the high season workshop capacity is tighter and turnaround times are longer.
Learning to ride a motorcycle to gain safety on the road - off-road courses are best suited for this, with the best protective gear, a suitable closed circuit, instructors and theory before riding. Do you want to master your custom motorcycle better? Then book a course at MX-Academy - fun and progress guaranteed
The motorcycle training facility in Schlatt is listed in the National Sports Facilities Concept NASAK – approved and supported by the Federal Office of Sport FOSPO as well as by Swiss Olympics
Learn to ride a motorcycle – MX-Academy courses for custom bike riders
The same applies to the machines: motorcycles in all sizes are available, with 250 cc bikes ready for beginners as well as competition motorcycles. The aim of every course is that all participants for whom the motorcycle suits their body size are able to ride the competition motorcycle on the advanced track.
With the MX-Academy training system we see enormous progress from all participants within a single day
MX-Academy is the largest enduro and motocross school in Europe, has around 20 years of experience and unites many national and international off-road titles.
The training facility in Schlatt is listed in the National Sports Facilities Concept NASAK – approved and supported by the Federal Office of Sport FOSPO as well as by Swiss Olympics
Ready for the adventure with fun and progress? You can register directly via the coloured link
The price list without pictures: every vehicle with version, colour and price.
Rent it before you buy: Honda CMX1100 Rebel Touring rental from CHF 220/day · Honda CMX500 Rebel rental from CHF 135/day
All prices are non-binding and may change at any time. For a binding quote please enquire preferably via the form.
What is a custom bike?
A custom bike is an individually designed or converted motorcycle with strong character, classic design and a relaxed riding feel. It stands out from production models through personality, style and construction. With the Honda Rebel 500, the Honda Rebel 1100, the Honda GB350 and the Honda CL500, Honda covers the main style directions.
Which Honda custom bikes are available in Switzerland?
Honda offers five models: Honda GB350, Honda CL500, Honda Rebel 500 – Honda CMX500 Rebel, Honda Rebel 1100 (CMX1100 Rebel) and the Honda Rebel 1100 Special Edition. All are available at Honda Motorrad Zürich AG in Volketswil. Overview: Cafe racer, bobber and custom bikes by Honda
What is the Honda Rebel 500?
The Honda Rebel 500 is the most searched custom bike from Honda and is registered as the Honda CMX500 Rebel in the vehicle documents. It has a 471 cc twin with 34 kW, is approved for category A restricted, weighs little and has a very low seat height. With its minimalist bobber design the Honda CMX500 is the classic way into the segment.
What does a Honda Rebel 500 cost?
The price of the Honda Rebel 500 depends on version, colour and accessories. Current prices and the Honda CMX500 Rebel machines in stock are shown in the vehicle list on this page. For advice call us on +41 44 908 20 00 or write to info@honda-zuerich.ch.
What is the difference between the Honda Rebel 500 and the Honda Rebel 1100?
The Honda Rebel 500 with 471 cc and 34 kW is approved for category A restricted and aimed at beginners and everyone looking for a light bobber motorcycle. The Honda Rebel 1100 uses the 1084 cc twin from the Africa Twin with 65 kW, is designed as a cruiser for long distances and is optionally available with DCT automatic transmission.
Is the Honda Rebel 500 approved for category A restricted?
Yes, the Honda Rebel 500 is available as the Honda CMX500 Rebel with 34 kW as standard and is therefore approved for category A restricted without a restrictor – even after moving up to category A no conversion is needed.
What is a bobber motorcycle?
A bobber is a custom bike from which everything superfluous has been left out: short mudguards, a low centre of gravity, a reduced line. The bobber motorcycle from Honda is the Honda Rebel 500. The Honda Rebel 1100 follows the same design language, but with considerably more power.
What is a chopper motorcycle and does Honda offer one?
A chopper motorcycle has a long fork angle, a stretched silhouette and strong individualisation – the closest relative of the bobber. Honda does not offer a factory chopper motorcycle. Anyone who wants to take a custom bike towards chopper looks works through the handlebar, the seat and the chassis; the Honda Rebel 500 and Honda Rebel 1100 are the obvious starting points. We carry out conversions in our own workshop: Motorcycle workshop, conversion and service
What is a cafe racer?
The cafe racer emerged in London in the fifties and sixties and is the sportiest custom bike style: clip-on handlebars, a stretched riding position, a short rear end, a continuous line. Motorcycles with a visible steel tube frame and classic basic geometry make the best base – at Honda the Honda CL500 and the Honda GB350.
What is a coffee racer?
Coffee racer is the frequently used spelling for the cafe racer and means the same style. A coffee racer conversion aims at a closed, horizontal line, a forward-leaning riding position and reduced add-on parts. The best conversion base in its class is the Honda CL500.
Which Honda is suitable as a cafe racer conversion base?
The Honda CL500. It has a visible diamond-type steel tube frame, a round headlight, a rounded tank and a twin-sided swingarm with stereo shocks – exactly the elements a cafe racer consists of. Honda itself declared the CL500 a conversion base: at the custom competition at the Wheels and Waves festival in Biarritz in 2024 a cafe racer concept won. The Honda GB350 is also suitable thanks to its slim silhouette.
Is the Honda CL500 a scrambler?
Yes. The Honda CL500 is a scrambler motorcycle – recognisable by its high-mounted exhaust, upright seating position and rugged appearance. The 471 cc parallel twin delivers 34 kW. It is suitable for city traffic, touring and light terrain and is approved for category A restricted.
What does the Honda CL500 cost?
Price and availability of the Honda CL500 depend on model year and equipment. The currently available machines are shown in the list on this page. Arrange a test ride here: Motorcycle test ride and rental
What is the Honda GB350?
The Honda GB350 is a retro custom bike with timeless design and classic motorcycle engineering: 348 cc single cylinder, air-cooled, around 15 kW, low seat height, good-natured handling. As the GB350S it appeals to lovers of classic motorcycles and is a popular base for a cafe racer conversion.
Which custom bike is suitable for beginners?
The Honda Rebel 500. As the Honda CMX500 Rebel it is approved for category A restricted, has a low seat height, low weight and good-natured power delivery. The Honda GB350 and the Honda CL500 are also accessible. To deepen your riding technique: Motorcycle courses Switzerland
Which custom bike is suitable for women?
The Honda Rebel 500 with its low seat height and light handling is particularly accessible for female riders, as is the Honda GB350. Both offer style without compromising on rideability. More: Motorcycle for women
What is the difference between a bobber and a scrambler?
A bobber is minimalist and built low, with short mudguards and a low centre of gravity – like the Honda Rebel 500. A scrambler motorcycle has a high-mounted exhaust, more suspension travel and is more versatile – like the Honda CL500. Both are among the most popular custom bike styles.
What is the difference between a custom bike and a cruiser?
Custom bike is the umbrella term for individually designed or converted motorcycles. A cruiser is a body style with a relaxed seating position, a low centre of gravity and a long wheelbase. Many custom bikes are based on cruiser platforms – such as the Honda Rebel 1100, which is designed as a cruiser.
Which is the most powerful custom bike from Honda?
The Honda Rebel 1100 with 1084 cc and 65 kW. The twin comes from the Africa Twin. Riding modes, traction control and the optional DCT dual clutch transmission make the CMX1100 Rebel the most modern model in the range. The Special Edition adds exclusive design and equipment details.
What is DCT on the Honda Rebel 1100?
DCT stands for Dual Clutch Transmission, an automatic dual clutch gearbox. Honda offers it as an option for the Honda Rebel 1100. It allows riding without manual clutch work – ideal for relaxed touring and city traffic.
Which custom bike is the lightest?
The Honda GB350 with its compact 348 cc single cylinder and slim construction. It is particularly interesting for smaller riders and beginners. The Honda Rebel 500 is also among the most accessible models thanks to its low seat height.
Can I have my custom bike converted?
Yes. We carry out conversions and customising in our own workshop in Volketswil – handlebar, seat, exhaust system, lighting, footpegs, chassis and paintwork. What is possible and what it costs: Motorcycle workshop, conversion and service
What has to be registered for a motorcycle conversion in Switzerland?
Substantial changes to the frame, chassis, brakes, exhaust, lighting or tyres must be presented to the road traffic office and entered in the vehicle registration document. Add-on parts require test marks, type approvals or expert reports. Whether a conversion can be registered is clarified before the build – not afterwards.
Does the warranty remain valid after a conversion?
Yes, provided the work is carried out professionally by an official Honda business using original accessories and tested components. Conversions should also be reported to the insurer and taken into account in the comprehensive cover.
When is the best time for a conversion?
The winter season. Anyone who brings in their motorcycle in autumn collects it in spring fully registered and does not lose a single riding day. In the high season workshop capacity is tighter and turnaround times are longer.
Can I test ride a custom bike?
Yes, we have Honda custom bikes available as demonstration machines. A test ride is possible against a small contribution towards costs, which is credited when you buy. Arrange an appointment on +41 44 908 20 00 or here: Motorcycle test ride and rental
Are Honda custom bikes also available used?
Yes, alongside new machines we offer used models and demonstration motorcycles. A used machine is often considerably cheaper and a popular basis for a conversion project.
Can I lease or finance a custom bike?
Yes, all models can be financed or leased through Honda Bank. Flexible terms make your desired motorcycle possible without tying up a large amount of capital: Motorcycle financing and leasing. Work out your monthly instalment without obligation in the leasing calculator; check the leasing requirements first, then send your leasing request online.
Can I trade in my current motorcycle?
Yes, we buy and trade in motorcycles of all brands. The trade-in value is credited when you buy: Motorcycle trade-in and purchase
What protective gear do I need?
Custom bikes offer little fairing protection. We recommend a helmet to ECE 22.06, a jacket with protectors, motorcycle trousers with protectors, gloves and boots. Everything about it: Motorcycle clothing Zurich
Where do I buy a custom bike in Zurich?
At Honda Motorrad Zürich AG, Chlirietstrasse 12, 8604 Volketswil – the first Honda Dream Dealer in Switzerland. All models in the showroom, test rides possible, advice included. Tel. +41 44 908 20 00, info@honda-zuerich.ch. Overview: Cafe racer, custom bikes and bobber
Which Honda motorcycle works as a cruiser?
At Honda the Rebel range is the cruiser: the CMX500 Rebel for the restricted A licence and the CMX1100 Rebel with more capacity. Both bring the low seat, the long wheelbase and the relaxed bar position that define a cruiser – and both are a rewarding base for a custom cruiser with special equipment. The machines currently available are listed on this page. For advice call 044 908 20 00.
What is a retro motorcycle, and which Hondas are retro bikes?
A retro motorcycle picks up the shapes of classic machines: a round headlight, a visible frame, a classic tank and very little bodywork. At Honda that is mainly the GB350, with a single-cylinder engine and an upright riding position, and the CL500, which takes the retro look in a scrambler direction. Both also work as a conversion base for a cafe racer. Available retro bikes are listed on this page.