Where to start a bobber project?

[torreyw]

I have rode crotch rockets, then I bought a new Harley.
Now I want a nasty bobber.

Not anything ultra nice or shinny. Honestly the rag tag murder looking the better, but dependability and seamless look is a must.

What would be the best bike to start with?
I was think Yamaha 650xs.
I've seen some sick ones on that base.

Any ideas?

[cjrenick]

XS650 are about the most popular, but really anything can be done up as a bobber. Just find a bike you like and weld on a hardtail. At least I assume you want a hardtail.

[novafrk]

If you have the skills to do a lot of custom work, (welding, fabricating, wiring etc.) any bike can be made to look like a bobber. If your skills are more in the range of assembly, and not so strong in the fabrication debt, a mainstream bike that has a large aftermarket support is the way to go. CB750's were popular bikes to customize and there is a huge aftermarket. Same with the xs650 you mentioned. Several people on this forum have done xs builds with great success. It is a LOT of work to build a custom bike. Don't let anyone tell you differently. That said the satisfaction of having done it is something special. Kirk out.