Based on the Honda SRX50, Espresso Motorcycles have given this scooter, a unique retro-inspired makeover
Milan is popularly dubbed one of the fashion capitals of the world. But who knew the fashion capital was also home to some dope custom two-wheelers?
A case in point is the Honda Joker by Espresso Motorcycles, which is a scooter turned low-slung cruiser shod with bold ‘Go Fast, Don’t Die’ graphics.
What Is The Honda Joker?
For reference, this is how the stock Honda SRX50 used to look. Swipe up for more details about this build.
The Honda SRX 50 (commonly called the Joker) was the Japanese company’s 50cc scooter, sold in the late 1990s.
It was properly retro and boasted many chrome elements along with a unique, flowing tail section. Further, a tall exposed handlebar, a sloping seat, and chrome alloys made it ever so dapper.
Now that you know have a rough idea about what the Honda Joker is, let’s get to the custom scooter.
The Process
The build started off as a rusty Honda Joker which had been lying in a compound for over 20 years. The bike maker claims that almost each and every component has been revised and the final product, as you can see, is nothing short of impressive.
This is possibly one of the coolest scooters we've ever seen!
For the build, Espresso Motorcycles has taken inspiration from low-slung cruisers. And consequently, the scooter’s chassis was lowered by around 7cm at both ends, made possible by low, aftermarket suspension springs and a custom connecting rod.
Additionally, all chrome elements are blacked-out to complement the stealthy paint scheme
Also, since lowering means barely any ground clearance, the centre-stand was stripped off. Wondering how the scooter stays upright? Well, Espresso Motorcycles has cunningly reconfigured the kick-starter lever to work as a side-stand. Now, how cool is that!
Further, the scooter now rolls on custom 10-inch alloy wheels, again to go with low-slung nature.
Proper Chopper Roots
The custom scooter gets a massive 18-inch tall handlebar along with a striking livery
As mentioned above, the scooter takes inspiration from low-slung cruisers and choppers, which are usually synonymous with tall handlebars and striking custom paint jobs. And this is exactly what’s on offer here. You also get a tiny, new rectangular LED headlight upfront.
Espresso Motorcycles has thrown in an 18-inch tall ape-hanger handlebar which, though not very practical, makes the scooter look like a proper old-school chopper.
And thanks to low ground clearance, the centre-stand was also stripped off
Coming to the paint job, Espresso Motorcycles went with the Matte Daytona Grey shade from Audi’s catalogue and then put some extra special graphics to round things off. The graphics include red pinstripes all around and loud ‘Go Fast, Don’t Die’ stickers. Not to forget, all chrome elements from the stock scooter have been blacked-out.
You also get a custom seat with a genuine leather cover and diamond-pattern stitching.
A New Heart
The livery wraps the scooter in a matte grey shade and comes replete with loud graphics
To complement the new design, the bikemaker has updated its 50cc motor to a big block 70cc engine from Malossi performance. Also part of the package is an aftermarket gearbox.
This should amp up the riding experience of the scooter and leave the rider with a wide grin if that doesn’t already happen after merely looking at it.
The front apron even has three Harley-Davidson model names on it, possibly to indicate the inspiration for this build
To round it up, the custom Honda Joker comes across as a rad build and certainly something we’d love to take for a spin if given a chance. Sadly, for that one will have to fly to Milan and track down the owner, which isn’t all that practical.
Nevertheless, a big thumbs up to Espresso Motorcycles for pulling off this conversion!
Keyword: This Joker Gives ’Down-to-Earth’ A Whole New Meaning