Motorcycle specifications Yamaha SR 400 Yard Built -CS-05 Zen- 2015 A flat-track exhibition

The "CS_05 Zen", the latest creation from Portuguese motorcycle tuner it roCkS!bikes, is the culmination of a passion shared by the Portuguese branch of Yamaha Motor Europe, Motociclismo magazine and this customization workshop in northern Portugal.

Alexandre Santos and Osvaldo Coutinho from it roCkS!bikes have pulled off a real tour de force, completely transforming the Yamaha SR 400. Once again using the monocoque design that forged their reputation, they have given the Yamaha their own Yard Built vision.

Inspired by early flat trackers, the Zen inherits the Portuguese tuner's trademark design: tank, seat and rear end are all in one piece. Its shape has earned it the affectionate nickname "bacalhau" from the Portuguese, in reference to the fish used in the dish of the same name, a staple of Lusitanian gastronomy.

"Osvaldo and Alex have once again shown their skill in creating a resolutely "it roCkS! bikes" ride from a legendary Yamaha motorcycle," enthuses Shun Miyazawa, Product Manager at Yamaha Motor Europe."They are able to create a magnificent monocoque design for every Yamaha model. The technical aspect is really impressive, and we particularly appreciate the fact that they've preserved everything that makes the SR 400 so fun, easy to handle and personal."

The twin rear shocks have been replaced by a single central cantilever shock, unusually sized at 240 mm with a travel of just 36 mm. The tubular steel swingarm was designed from scratch, and the frame was extensively reworked to match the monocoque. The saddle is the fruit of the painstaking work of a Portuguese craftsman, its high-quality leather and reinforced stitching a true work of art. The 100/100 18" Bridgestone tires mounted on both wheels further accentuate the dual personality of this Yard Built.

The SR 400 's single-cylinder engine remains unchanged, but its performance has been boosted by a larger air intake and a new exhaust system, also designed from scratch in stainless steel.

The two-tone trim - red on one side, yellow on the other, with a few touches of black and white - expresses the different identities of the companies involved in this ambitious project.

Information and images: Yamaha