DEBOLEX MK1B

If being a thoroughly nice chap paid the bills then Calum, the front man of deBolex, would be able to kick back with a Piña Colada and watch the world go by. Unfortunately hard work and an eye for detail is what keeps the bailiffs from his door, proof being the repeat orders from customers and the business now able to step up a gear.

As the customer base has grown and projects become more creative, the original deBolex MK1 build was left languishing at the back of the workshop whilst the latest flavour of the month is transformed and fettled. Like the worn out Action Man figure with his cammo rubbed off, cast aside to the bottom of the toy box. Someone should make a movie about that.

The MK1’s 1979 Cb750 base was still perfectly usable, having been rebuilt properly in the first place, but needed a new owner and a bit of love. Eduardo, an enigmatic Italian with an infectious personality had been buzzing to work on a trusty but wheezy RS125, and frequently popped over the road to see what Calum was working on. Eduardo decided he needed a commuting upgrade and the now MK1b could take on a new lease of life under his ownership.

Being a frequent visitor, Ed was able to fine tune the design organically to his taste and keep an eye on progress. With the bike back in bits, the frame given a further clean up and the rear hoop scalloped-out to accept the LED tail light. A new aluminium seat base was made with a diamond stitched saddle, this time with creating a more subtle kick-up at the rear.

The silver frame was re-stripped and powder coated in satin black to meet the darker and moodier theme, complimented by fresh Dunlops on re-powdered black mags.

deBolex bikes look good in black, and the b is no different, the tank broken up by a wide cream band and black pinstripe; with matching logo of course. Ed’s enthusiasm around the workshop was usually followed by “Sweeet!” so this was added, just ahead of the headstock.

A new Daytona speedo, some finishing touches, a tune-up and Ed was on his way down the road; shortly followed by Calum wishing he hadn’t parted with his firstborn. A good few miles later and a text message came through “Sweeet!!!!”

Sometimes you have to let the past go to make way for the future and deBolex are well on their way to achieving that. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for news and the website if you want to book a slot in their growing build queue.

via The Bike Shed