Source: Bike Bound
Yamaha WR155 “Furai-Bou” from Katros Garage…
The Yamaha WR155R is one of those bikes we wish was sold in more markets. The small displacement dual-sport has a liquid-cooled 4-valve engine with fuel injection and variable valve actuation (VVA) — trick for the size!
While Yamaha makes some of the better looking dual-purpose bikes on the market, we have a soft spot for the enduros, scramblers, and trackers of yesteryear. It’s no easy feat to transform a modern dual-sport into a retro-style scrambler / tracker, but Atenx Katros of Indonesia’s Katros Garage is no ordinary builder. His workshop consistently turns out some of the handsomest, most well-executed customs in a country that’s become a hotbed of custom culture.
Though Katros Garage builds bikes in a wide range of styles, they’ve got an affinity for trackers and scramblers. The 2022 WR155 you see here was built for a rider who works for the French lubricant company IPONE. Says Atenx:
“This bike was built out of a personal passion for motorcycling, embodying the spirit, journey, and freedom of riding. It’s designed to serve as a daily commuter while reflecting the style and ethos of scrambler and tracker customs.”
While the chassis was left stock to allow the owner to revert the bike back to its original form should he so wish, the rest of the modifications were extensive. Major changes include new rear suspension and swingarm to accommodate a larger wheelset with dual-purpose tires, full custom exhaust and bodywork produced in-house at Katros Garage, custom lighting and bars, and that lovely paint scheme that recalls the beloved Yamaha IT series and early Ténéré machines.
But this bike isn’t just eye candy — it’s made to be ridden. In Japanese, the nickname “風来坊” (Furai-bou) translates to “Wanderer” or “Vagabond” — a nod to the daily adventures this bike brings to the new owner:
“Riding ‘the Furai-bou / Vagabond’ feels like embarking on a journey of freedom, where every twist of the throttle brings a sense of excitement and liberation.”
That wrist-twisted path to freedom is the best part of motorcycling, and we love to see a bike from a world-class builder that points right back to the roots of why we ride. Well done, Atenx — we look forward to featuring more of your work in the future!
Yamaha WR155 Tracker / Scrambler: Builder Interview
• What’s the make, model, and year of the donor bike?
This is Yamaha WR 155, 2022 Model.
• Why was this bike built?
This bike is a customer project. He works for one of the lubricant companies, Ipone. This bike was built out of a personal passion for motorcycling, embodying the spirit, journey, and freedom of riding. It’s designed to serve as a daily commuter while reflecting the style and ethos of scrambler and tracker customs.
• What was the design concept and what influenced the build?
The design concept was inspired by the Fantic Caballero 125, also from the Yamaha XT500 Dakar — the ruggedness and versatility of scrambler and tracker motorcycles, incorporating elements that evoke a sense of adventure and exploration.
Influences include vintage motorcycles, off-road capabilities, and a minimalist aesthetic, creating a balance between form and function for daily commuting and spirited riding.
• What custom work was done to the bike?
Several customizations were implemented to transform the motorcycle into a unique scrambler and tracker hybrid. This includes modifications such as:
Chassis not modified (still on standard chassis), so the customer can still use the original Yamaha WR body kit if he revert back to the original.
Installation of dual purpose tires for improved off-road performance.
Wheelset was upgraded to a bigger size for better look and performance.
Upgraded rear suspension and rear swingarm to handle diverse terrain and accommodate the bigger wheelset and tire size.
Custom exhaust system for enhanced sound and performance.
All bodywork made by Katros Garage.
Installation of a minimalist, vintage-style seat.
Addition of custom lighting and accessories for both style and functionality.
Repositioning of handlebars for better ergonomics and control.
These customizations were carefully chosen to enhance the bike’s aesthetics, performance, and versatility for daily commuting and spirited riding.
• Does the bike have a nickname?
The bike’s nickname in Japanese could be “風来坊” (Furai-bou), which translates to “Wanderer” or “Vagabond,” capturing the essence of its free-spirited nature and adventurous journey on the road.
• Can you tell us what it’s like to ride the finished bike?
Riding the finished bike is an exhilarating experience that connects you with the essence of motorcycling. The combination of the scrambler and tracker styles offers a versatile ride, capable of tackling both urban streets and off-road trails with ease. The nimble handling, responsive throttle, and comfortable riding position make every journey enjoyable, whether it’s a daily commute or a weekend adventure.
The custom exhaust system emits a distinctive sound, adding to the overall sensory experience. Riding “the Furai-bou / Vagabond” feels like embarking on a journey of freedom, where every twist of the throttle brings a sense of excitement and liberation.
• Was there anything done during this build that you are particularly proud of?
One aspect of the build that I’m particularly proud of is the attention to detail in blending the scrambler and tracker styles seamlessly. Achieving the perfect balance between these two distinct aesthetics required careful consideration and craftsmanship, from the original chassis (not modified) to the selection of components and accessories.
Additionally, I take pride in ensuring that each customization not only enhances the bike’s appearance but also improves its performance, functionality, and echoes the character of the customer. Overall, the meticulous execution of the design concept and the fusion of various elements into a cohesive whole are aspects of the build that I am proud to have accomplished.
Follow the Builder
Web: www.katroscustom.com
Instagram: @katrosgarage
Facebook: Katros Garage
YouTube: @AtenxKatros”}]]
