With a last name like Gassmann, it’s not hard to believe that Markus has loved custom motorcycles since he was three years old. Thirty two years later, in Heiligenstadt, Germany, Markus Gassmann decided to build his own custom custom Honda CB550F daily rider. It’s a little drifter-esque, and we like it!
The rolling chassis and engine are based on a Honda CB 550 F, but the fenders, side covers, headlight-cover, exhaust pipes and seat are all handmade by Markus. The fuel tank comes from a Simson SR2.
The front suspension was lowered by 1.5”, while the rear suspension comes from Koni, an upgrade to the 1970’s shocks. Valve caps, ignition cover and alternator cover are accessories from the 1970’s as well.
Ignition coils and the bulk of the wiring harness are mounted under the seat. Markus did this as a personal project, so the bike is completely a solo garage build, and all made with typical workshop tools. Only four parts (header connection of the exhaust) were produced with a milling machine. The rest was pretty basic stuff.
Markus is a retro-afficionado and likes the old school look on motorcycles. As such, he chose an vintage-inspired color palette.
The bike will be for sale in future. Why?
“Because building a bike is a lot of fun. I want to do it again.” Marcus told us.
The money made from the sale will go towards his next build, which is still to be determined. In the mean time, you can find him on Facebook or Instagram – just look up Marcus Gassman.
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