When a client hands over their bike with a single instruction—“make something cool”—and gives it to Spencer Parr, you know the result will be special. This 2021 Honda XR650L is the latest work from Parr Motorcycles and represents what happens when a talented builder has free rein to create without limits.
Inspired by the legendary Honda Rothmans NSR500, this XR650L not only pays tribute to one of motorcycling’s most iconic liveries but also reinterprets it with a modern, aggressive, and functional approach. The goal was clear from the start: to create a street-legal supermoto with retro aesthetics and high-performance components.
Custom subframe and XL350 tank
The transformation began by completely disassembling the original bike. The first step was to remove the stock subframe and build a new one from scratch, using the original mounts but with a more curved and streamlined design. A custom electronics box was welded in, allowing for a clean integration of all the wiring.
Next came the tank selection. After testing several options, Spencer chose a classic: the tank from a 1978 Honda XL350. Its retro aesthetics fit perfectly with the project’s concept. To adapt it, the front mounts were modified, the rear was shaped to hug the frame, and the fuel outlet was relocated. Two new mounts welded to the neck of the frame ensure a solid fit.
High-end suspension, wheels, and brakes
The wheels are 17” Warp 9 rims, a supermoto classic, and the fenders are equally notable: the front is aluminum from a 1972 Honda SL350, while the rear was handcrafted in aluminum, with an integrated taillight and a hugger-style protector over the swingarm.
Designed to be agile and fast in the city, this XR650L features a fully upgraded chassis. The original rear suspension was re-tuned according to the rider’s weight and style. At the front, fully rebuilt 2004 Honda CRF450R forks were installed, mounted on RSW Racing clamps.
Handcrafted exhaust and Lectron carburetor
To bring the engine to life, Spencer used a configuration already classic in his projects: a custom 1.75″ stainless steel 2-into-1 exhaust, finished with a Cone Engineering muffler that delivers a clean and powerful sound. Fuel delivery is handled by a Lectron carburetor with a pod-style air filter, ideal for its ease of adjustment and performance.
Details that make a difference
push of a button. It was sent to Dane Utech (Plzbeseated) for custom upholstery, maintaining the clean and minimalist style of the bike.
As for the wiring, the original harness was used but modified to fit the new electronic components. The speedometer is a Motogadget Motoscope Mini mounted on a custom bracket, accompanied by Motogadget Blaze Tens mini indicators and a large retro-style LED headlight. All handlebar wiring was routed internally to maintain a tidy appearance.
Even the smallest details were carefully considered: blue anodized screws matching the paint scheme, custom brake lines, and controls designed to complement the overall aesthetics.
Rothmans paint: a high-level tribute
The final touch came from Hired Guns Paint, responsible for applying the iconic Rothmans livery that greatly inspired Spencer. The frame was painted in charcoal gray with metallic highlights, adding depth without resorting to the usual black.
A one-of-a-kind motorcycle
This Honda XR650L Supermoto is more than just an aesthetic build. It is the result of passion, skill, and creative freedom. A bike that combines the best of the past with modern functionality, designed to be enjoyed in the city without compromising on style.
Once again, Spencer Parr demonstrates why his retro-modern style is unmistakable and why each of his bikes tells a story. This XR is not just a build: it is a statement of intent.
