Visual Impact XS650 Brat Kit

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Visual Impact

Here is the kit that I've ordered from Visual Impact to make my '76 XS650 into a 'Brat Style' bike.  This is the first step for this bike, with a few more to follow. This kit gives the builder lots of flexibility in creating a one of a kind brat xs 650. The goal was to create a affordable kit for the home builder that had lots of flexibility, without compromising style.

These directions and instructions were taken directly from the Visual Impact website.  You can find that website here: Visual Impact Website

VISUAL IMPACT XS 650 BRAT KITS

All the pipe that is included is high quality D.O.M tubing. Each piece has extra material on either side to allow for many different configurations. The kit also includes Solid steel plugs machined to fit the frame and two plugs to cap off the top rails. Finally, 4 tabs to mount the shocks from.

For about $100 bucks Cdn, I'll take it.

Check out some pictures below of the kit installed...

Cut off the rear section like so!

Slip in the supplied plugs as pictured. Make sure to drill some 3/8 inch holes around the pipes so you can plug weld these plugs in. This will help to strengthen the union between the pipes and also will keep the plug from falling down into the frame when you install them

Depending on which way you slide the plugs in to the new upper tubes it will be a tight fit and may not meet the pipe all the way. This is to allow space between the pipes, especially if you are mig welding the two parts together. Leave a small gap between the pipes. This will allow you to weld the pipes and the plug together all at once. The main concern is only to make sure you get good penetration on your weld to the plug. Dont over do it. To much is as bad as not enough weld.

Leave some space between the pipes to make sure you have a nice weld and drill out those pipes to plug weld them for strength

Drill holes in both pipes and plug weld the holes shut to help grab the inner frame plug. This will help to make a stronger union and make the bike safer

If you plan to use shocks like the ones pictured you will need to cut off the old bracket on the swingarm and make a new one thats a bit longer.

 Shorter shocks allow for a nice low stance and some attitude. Make sure you have the shocks on hand that you will be using before installing your kit.

 The Finished Brat Kit...

VISUAL IMPACT CUSTOMER BUILD...
Note the different shock layout on this customer bike. This shows some of the versatility in the builder kit. You pick the shock location and size and set it up to the look you want. Also note the top seat rails and how this customer chose to attach them.

Here's a Custom XS650 built by Visual Impact:

Built wih the same kit...

Here's a video of the bike on the road: