Saturday, September 12, 2015

Crosby TT 400 - Return of the Retro (Mash 400 UK/Europe)

"Modern Classic"- the term used to describe a new version of an old thing. There is an increasing trend among motorcyclists to ride retro bikes. Mixing the styling of a by-gone era with the reliability of a modern motorcycle makes for a head-turning, creativity inducing, experience.



With this in mind the Crosby TT 400 is born. 

The styling on this bike is a mixture between 60's British nostalgia and 70's Japanese influence. 
Commissioned by V Custom Cycles in Centurion, this 400cc motorcycle is said to make waves, not only as an everyday commuter, but also as a machine that is fully customisable. 



Given the name "Crosby" after the small village on the Isle of Man where the first ever TT race began, this motorcycle  gives one the sense of history in a modern world where most bikes are plastic and resemble some form of insect or another in their styling. 

The Crosby's motor is an exact construct of the old Yamaha SR 400 and the  Honda XR 400. Those who rode these machines know the built proof nature of this single cylinder power-plant. Pushing out 19.5kw at 7000rpm its maximum speed about 130 km/h, which is perfect for a commuter or urban cruising, and also gives one a bit of power to get away from difficult situations on the motorway. The single cylinder's average consumption is 3.4 l /100 km which works out to just over 400 km to the tank (13 litres) and gives loads of great torque in the lower gears and sounds incredible through the twin pea-shooter pipes. 



The bike comes in three versions (kits): The Scrambler, the Cafe Racer and the Standard TT 400. 
There is very little plastic on the bike, which is quite refreshing.

Thanks to both  Pat and Douwe from V Custom Cycles, I had the pleasure of riding the standard version, and I must say I was impressed. At only 160 kg, it was light and nimble in traffic. The seating position is perfect for commuting, creating almost a laid back feeling. The controls are basic and easy to use, and considering that its a single, the Crosby is a remarkably smooth ride.



I definitely recommend the Crosby as either a first bike, or as a base for a custom project. 

The Crosby is available in all major Cities in South Africa, and is also available across Europe and the UK as the Mash 400.



Pricing: 

The Standard comes in at R 44 950 incl VAT , The Scrambler and Cafe Racer at R 49 550 incl VAT

I'm really excited to see some customized versions of these bikes in the near future. 

Check out:  V Custom Cycles for more information. 


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