Modern superbikes owe much of their design and performance to their legendary predecessors. For example, the Ducati Panigale can trace its roots back to the Ducati 916, while the Yamaha YZF-R1 owes its success to the Yamaha FZR1000. But what if you want the modern performance of a superbike combined with the classic look of its ancestor?

Well, take a look at the image above because that’s exactly what you’re seeing. At first glance, you might mistake this bike for a perfectly restored 1989 Suzuki GSX-R 1100. And you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. The external appearance of this bike is indeed that of the GSX-R 1100 from 1989. However, under the vintage fairings lies a more modern K7 GSX-R1000. Sure, it’s not the latest model, but let’s be honest, the K7 GSX-R1000 and the current generation are not too different, right?

This custom Suzuki GSX-R1000 is the brainchild of Fahim Rehmann from Cafe Rider Custom in Dubai. Featured by German motorcycling publication Motorrad Online, this unique build is meant to create a “connection to the past.” The Suzuki GSX-R1100, which was manufactured from 1986 to 1998, can be considered the grandfather of the GSX-R series. It laid the groundwork for the performance-oriented technology found in modern motorcycles. So what better way to pay tribute to this iconic bike than to build a custom one based on its successor?

This custom build is a testament to expert bodywork. The front fairing, expertly crafted from fiberglass reinforced plastic, seamlessly blends with the lower part of the fairing, showcasing the bike’s iconic angular and muscular design. Bridging the styling cues from 1989 and 2007 is no easy task, but the skilled craftsmen at Cafe Rider Custom have done an excellent job. If you take a closer look, you’ll notice the aluminum frame of the GSX-R1000 peeking through between the fairings and the tank.

Cafe Rider Custom has kept their techniques for this build a secret. Like a magician, they never reveal their secrets. The precise details of the modifications to the K7 GSX-R1000’s inline-four engine are unknown, except for the addition of a pair of period-correct Yoshimura mufflers. Despite the secrecy, we can still appreciate this masterpiece by browsing through the stunning photos below.

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