One-Off Kawasaki KZ400 Scrambler Restomod by Bueno Co. – Classic Style with Modern Touch
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When it comes to blending old-school motorcycle charm with modern functionality, few builders manage to strike the balance as gracefully as Nick Ghobashi, the man behind Bueno Co. in Fredericksburg, Virginia. His latest project, a 1976 Kawasaki KZ400 Scrambler restomod, is a shining example of how vintage bikes can be reimagined without losing their nostalgic essence. Known for his passion for classic Japanese motorcycles, Nick has crafted a one-off scrambler that looks modest at first glance, but upon closer inspection, it reveals meticulous craftsmanship and timeless beauty.
Nick’s journey into motorcycle customization is a story of persistence and passion. Having grown up around bikes thanks to his father, he was always destined to find his way back into the motorcycle world. After spending a few years working as a photographer, he took a leap of faith and switched careers to pursue customization. Just as his shop began, the pandemic struck, making survival incredibly challenging. Still, Nick persevered, and now Bueno Co. has built a reputation for quality, detail, and originality.
The base for this project was a well-aged Kawasaki KZ400 from 1976. Instead of stripping it down and turning it into a flashy showpiece, Nick opted for a more restrained and budget-conscious approach, focusing on refinement rather than extravagance. The bike was fully disassembled, and the build began with reshaping its stance and proportions. The rear subframe was shortened by three inches, creating a more compact and agile look. Complementing this was a trimmed and repositioned rear fender, topped with a circular LED taillight from Purpose Built Moto, giving the bike a clean yet purposeful rear end.
Nick then fabricated a bespoke fiberglass seat pan, finished with a stunning black leather saddle featuring diamond-pattern stitching. At the back, modern Hagon shock absorbers replaced the old stock suspension, extending the stance by an inch for improved handling and a sportier riding profile. Meanwhile, the front forks were kept original but reworked with fresh internals for a smoother, more confident ride.
While many elements were preserved, Nick carefully upgraded where it mattered. The factory Kawasaki wheels were retained, but he fitted them with dual-purpose rubber, making the KZ400 suitable for light off-road adventures and street riding alike. A small, high-mounted custom front fender and a retro-style grilled headlight with a chrome bezel add to its scrambler character. The cockpit remains classic, with the original gauges intact, now paired with a chrome-plated handlebar and aftermarket grips for a subtle yet effective update.
The fuel tank is perhaps one of the most eye-catching elements. Though Nick hasn’t revealed its origin, it blends seamlessly with the bike’s new proportions. Achieving the perfect fit required painstaking effort, but the result was worth it—elevating the overall flow of the build. The side covers were kept original, tying the new design to its vintage roots. Compact LED blinkers front and rear add a discreet modern touch.
Mechanically, the engine was given the full Bueno Co. treatment. The parallel-twin motor underwent a complete overhaul, ensuring it runs as good as it looks. Breathing upgrades came via Mikuni carburetors paired with Uni foam filters, while the stock headers now feed into a pair of aftermarket silencers for a throatier exhaust note.
Visually, Nick kept things elegant and timeless. The fuel tank and side covers were finished in glossy Nardo Grey, complemented by polished metal, chrome details, and subtle black highlights. The result is a scrambler that doesn’t scream for attention but captivates with its balance and execution.
The client, Tyler, was ecstatic upon receiving the bike, and it’s easy to see why. This Kawasaki KZ400 Scrambler stands as proof that with the right vision, even a humble platform can be transformed into something gorgeous, functional, and enduringly classic.
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One-Off Kawasaki KZ400 Scrambler Restomod by Bueno Co. – Classic Style with Modern Touch
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