A bobber that pays homage to Japan
Named after the Shinto god of war, Hachiman, the GB350S completely reinterprets the idea of a bobber with a rigid frame. The goal: to create a machine that stands out radically from the mainstream – deliberately distancing itself from classic cafe racers, scramblers, or brat-style conversions.
The designers wanted one thing above all else: to make the air-cooled single-cylinder engine the visual centerpiece. This approach led to the decision to streamline the entire motorcycle, thus revealing the engine. The inspiration comes from Japanese chopper culture – slim, upright, minimalist.
Technical modifications in detail
Implementing this concept required extensive modifications:
- Rigid frame rear: One of the most challenging modifications, as the harmony of the original had to be preserved.
- Tank shift with foot clutch: The clutch lever on the handlebars was removed in favor of a clean design.
- Peanut tank & short exhaust system: Custom-made parts emphasize the minimalist look.
- Handlebars without levers: Visually radical and functionally uncompromising to preserve the design.
- Metallic blue paintwork with flame pattern: Even the telescopic fork was integrated into the design.
- A playful detail: the user manual was attached to the handlebars with a cable tie.
A total of around 250 hours of work were completed in just 20 days, including logistics for painting at Willy Motoart in Milan. It was a tight schedule, where even a single setback would have had serious consequences – but in the end, it was successfully completed.
Conviction and confirmation
Nicola Manca describes the second victory as a “seal of approval” that confirms his own work. He emphasizes: “The first time, you might win by chance, daring, or beginner’s luck. But a second victory is a confirmation that is difficult to achieve and anything but a matter of course.”
Customizing is not just about functionality, but also about emotions and impact. The conversion should convey a feeling even when stationary – similar to an analog photo compared to a digital image: less practical, but with more charisma.
Versatility of the GB350S impresses across Europe
The GB350S was designated the official basis for the competition in 2025 and was presented at the Wheels and Waves Festival in Biarritz in eleven very different interpretations from seven countries. As an A2-compliant retro bike with a classic layout, it offers an ideal basis for customization.
In addition to the Hachimaan, other conversions also impressed:
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2nd place: Mia from Portugal – a 60s-inspired café racer with split fairing.
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3rd place: Grand (B)rix from Germany – a sporty, classic café racer-style conversion with a black and gold look.
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4th place: MBX350 from Spain – reminiscent of the MBX80 from the 1980s.
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5th place: The Rocket Lion – with RC181-inspired fairing and GP character.
A total of over 30,000 people took part in the online vote – an increase of 19% over the previous year.
Desire for a custom parts catalog
Despite the success, Nicola Manca wants one thing above all else: a comprehensive Honda accessories catalog for the GB350S. According to him, this model is one of the most versatile and accessible bikes for both hobbyists and professional customizers.
Whether for conversion to an off-roader with studded tires and engine protection or to a retro sports bike with clip-on handlebars and seat cover – the potential is enormous. Even a surfboard rack is conceivable.
Manca sums up: “In any case, I’m glad that I’ve already had the opportunity to try out a perfect motorcycle like the GB350S and convert it to my liking.”
Outlook: Goldwing as an extreme conversion project?
One of Manca’s possible dreams for the future would be to convert a Honda GL1800 Goldwing – a challenge that requires courage, creativity, and technical perfection. The tourer offers countless possibilities for interpretation, from futuristic to classic. For now, however, the focus remains on maneuverable bikes with character – like the GB350S.
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