Dirty Geisha: Maria's Yamaha XT600

Turning old dualies into retro customs is all the rage lately. We're not complaining—done right, the results are sharp looking, easy-going bikes. The process comes with challenges: Most thumpers built in the '80s and '90s celebrated function over form. They're delightfully utilitarian, but that means builders have to contend with clumsy bodywork and awkward lines. That’s why Maria Motorcycles almost didn’t take on this particular project, a 1992 Yamaha XT600. “It’s one of the most common bikes here in Portugal,” says Maria's Luis Correia, “but definitely a very difficult base to work on.” Correia and his crew decided to fuse the...