Motorcycle specifications YamahaXV 950 Yard Built - Speed Iron - 2016 Flesh meets iron

The custom XV 950 has become a flagship model for Yamaha's Yard Built program. This new creation is a purely Italian machine: this Tracker-style model with its discreet design is a veritable ode to the art of metalwork. Moto di Ferro's XV 950 Yard Built "Speed Iron" is the brainchild of Italian tuner Marco Lugato.

marco belongs to that category of tuners who have oil running through their veins: a racing driver from an early age, first off-road and then on the road with the professionals, he has built up an unquestionable legitimacy. After a career in the racing world, followed by a few years spent perfecting his art in various workshops, he finally founded Moto di Ferro ("iron motorcycle") in 2009 to prepare the custom motorcycles of his dreams.

the collaboration with Yard Built follows a meeting at Wheels & Waves between Marco and two Yamaha Motor Europe executives: Shun Miyazawa, Product Director, and Cristian Barelli, Marketing Coordinator. It was after talking things over, exchanging views and trying out their respective machines that a collaboration seemed unavoidable. An XV 950 was chosen and delivered: the project was born.

"During our meeting and discussions in Biarritz with Marco, it became clear that we shared the same passion and love for motorcycles," comments Cristian Barelli."When we considered the possibility of collaborating with Moto di Ferro, one aspect in particular caught our attention: for Marco, it's not about making a single machine, but a concept he can create based on the XV 950 to satisfy a wide range of customers. Marco has taken what he believes to be the quintessence of the XV 950, and I'm really pleased with the Speed Iron. Its design really bears the Moto di Ferro hallmark, while retaining the simplicity and performance of the XV 950. It's a beautiful machine that remains very enjoyable and exhilarating to ride, and is potentially available to a wide range of Yamaha motorcyclists."

The "Speed Iron" concept was inspired by Marco's passion for speed. He wanted to create a machine with a strong design and flowing lines. Big tires had an important role to play, without compromising on rideability. These tires were fitted with beautiful Borrani rims, while the front suspension was changed to a 1700 VMAX fork.

the custom aluminum tank and saddle keep weight down, and work perfectly with the side panels, also custom aluminum. Front brakes with 320 mm discs benefit from the VMAX calipers to ensure plenty of stopping power. The Acewell odometer gives the rider all the information he needs, and the Arrow exhaust system provides the perfect soundtrack.

other miscellaneous elements add the finishing touch, such as Tarozzi footrests and LSL handlebar ends. The custom rear frame gives the bike a strong line, while the headlight and stop lights integrated into the turn signals, available as aftermarket accessories, give the bike a clean look.

owners of the XV 950 will also be delighted to learn that Marco plans to make several parts of the "Speed Iron" model available to those who wish to create their own machine... And even better: you can entrust him with your own XV 950, and he'll take care of it himself!

to find out more about Moto di Ferro, visit their website: www.motodiferro.com.

News and media credits: Yamaha