Old is Gold – Republica Motocicletas reveals 1994 Honda NX350 ‘Old Power’

Gregory

February 20, 2018

Photo credits: Diego Luna

While we are most likely to be drawn to shiny new metal, there’s something that cannot be put in words when it comes to the easy-going charm of an old motorcycle. Sure, there is always the issue having to put up with oil leaks and wonky electronics but the sensation one gets from powering up a classic makes it all worthwhile.

Just ask Franco Loson and Carlos Sartor of Córdoba-based Republica Motocicletas. Based in Argentina, the duo, along with teammates, Mauro Sartor and Lucas Versellon, have churned out a total of 15 custom motorcycles in just over 3 years. So, when the team found themselves staring at a 1994 Honda NX350 Sahara, what came to mind?

Photo credits: Diego Luna

“When creating this bike we seek to achieve a unique motorcycle in its type, I would call it a futuristic scrambler, it is a motorcycle that when people see it, they do not know what the motorcycle is about and it arouses all kinds of reactions and emotions,” said Franco.

With that said, the first thing to go was the original fuel tank which was then replaced by a 1965 Jawa fuel tank. Next up, classically-styled knee pads and a raw metal finish ensure the motorcycle has plenty of visual character. An all-black colour scheme was chosen and a tiny bit of contrast was provided by a single hand-applied pinstripe.

Photo credits: Diego Luna

With the general aesthetics done, the team then moved on to the exposed square headlight that was left behind. To offset the traditional look of the fuel tank, they installed a twin LED projector headlight instead. At the rear of the motorcycle, an all-new subframe was installed to help improve its looks while the seat gets trimmed in leather with a clear stitching pattern.

The new taillights are LED units hidden behind a mesh panel. “We seek to create a unique motorcycle that is futuristic and practical at the same time, allowing the user to use it both on the road and in the mountains, we sought to achieve a motorcycle that blows people’s minds when they see her on the street,” explained Franco.