Taiwan’s Rough Crafts is renowned for building jaw-dropping custom Harleys, but founder Winston Yeh is no stranger to pushing boundaries. His latest creation – a Yamaha Tenere 700 transformed into a YZ-inspired flat tracker – is proof of his relentless pursuit of style and performance.
A Unique Vision
Collaborating with Faber Lai of Faber Studio, Winston initially considered the Husqvarna 501 and Honda CRF300L for the build. But neither felt quite right. Instead, a conversation with Yamaha Taiwan led to the perfect donor – a brand-new Tenere 700, which was promptly stripped down for a radical makeover.
Engineering the Transformation
One of the most significant modifications was replacing the stock subframe with a lightweight aluminum unit from a YZ450F. This not only improved the bike’s weight distribution but also set the stage for the new YZ450F bodywork from UFO Plast. A custom-built aluminum fuel tank from JZO Crafts, complete with a Harley-style Rough Crafts filler cap, enhanced the tracker’s sleek profile.
Performance Upgrades
Suspension was upgraded with Ohlins custom-tuned forks and a bolt-on rear shock, fine-tuned for balanced handling. A custom rear linkage and mounting position for the preload adjustment dial ensured perfect ride height. Meanwhile, FAOR supermoto triple clamps, Beringer brakes, and a custom KCT rear sprocket added precision to the build.
Attention to Detail
The cockpit features Renthal flat track handlebars, a Domino throttle and grips, Beringer controls, and a KOSO GPS-enabled speedometer. For lighting, the bike sports a KOSO headlight and Rough Crafts-branded LED taillights. Even the foot controls received an upgrade with Zeta foot pegs for extra grip.
Custom Exhaust & Final Touches
Initially, Yeh and Lai considered a low-slung exhaust. However, the YZ tail cowl already had space for a muffler, so they opted for an asymmetrical system built by JZO Crafts. Wrapped in a striking MTR kinetic graphic livery, the finished bike looks as aggressive as it performs.
A Lightweight Powerhouse
The final product is a 74 hp, twin-cylinder flat tracker weighing just 158 kg, fully fueled. More than just a custom build, this Yamaha Tenere 700 is a statement of Rough Crafts’ ability to redefine style and performance in the motorcycle world.
