Eak Tanadit, the proprietor and lead designer at Bangkok’s K-Speed workshop, is arguably among the best modifiers of small-capacity bikes the world over. His {custom} creations have graced the pages of numerous web sites (together with this one) and their reputation has allowed him to increase his enterprise internationally.
In 2018 Honda approached Eak to switch their newly launched C110 Tremendous Cub which is conveniently inbuilt Thailand. The ensuing bike, coined ‘Tokyo Avenue’ kickstarted an ongoing relationship that has seen Eak modify all method of Honda fashions. Via these collaborations, his workshop has additionally developed a spread of aftermarket components which he sells below the Okay-Velocity Diabolus (previously Diablo) model. For his newest Honda {custom} undertaking, Eak turned his consideration to the 2024 Dax 125.
The Dax 125 is Honda’s reimagined model of the ST50 Dax which had been out of manufacturing for over 40 years. The Euro 5-compliant mini bike is powered by a 124cc single-cylinder engine and boasts LED lighting and a tidy adverse LCD gauge. The tiny Dax rolls on 12-inch wheels wrapped in chunky rubber and it makes use of a pressed metal body similar to the unique Dax. As a day by day, the Honda DAX 125 isn’t going to win any races, however it’s infinitely extra trendy than any scooter available on the market, could be very reasonably priced to purchase and run, and delivers numerous smiles to the gallon.
For this construct, Eak aimed to remodel the minuscule Dax right into a muscular retro racer with the intention of wowing the crowds on the 2024 Bangkok Scorching Rod Present. The undertaking took round 3 months to finish from begin to end with the lion’s share of the time going into constructing the curvaceous new bodywork.
“The DAX 125 is likely one of the hottest small bikes proper now,” says Eak. “My inspiration is centered round racing bikes of the Sixties with a signature dustbin model cowl.”
As with each Okay-Velocity undertaking, this practice Dax 125 coined the ‘Hell Hound’ started with Eak sketching out his imaginative and prescient with pencil and paper. From there he and his staff started the prolonged job of reworking the Dax 125 into the bike you see right here. As for what work components have been made for this undertaking, Eak jokes we must be asking which of them didn’t he make for the reason that checklist of modifications is so intensive.
The standout function of this practice Dax 125 is after all the one-off dustbin fairing. Much like their different initiatives, work started on the fairing with the development of a mould which was used to supply the ultimate fibre composite half. This method helps to maintain weight to a minimal on the low-powered Dax.
Accompanying the fairing on the laundry checklist of {custom} tweaks is a custom-made handlebar sporting new switchgear, grips, and bar ends. Rear set footpegs mounted to the swingarm set up an aggressive driving place whereas the studded leather-based Diabolus seat gives loads of padding. To maintain issues trying clear within the cockpit, the inventory gauge has been relocated to the internal left of the fairing the place additionally, you will discover a somewhat sudden addition.
This Dax 125 now contains a jockey shift-style gear selector. So when the throttle is rolled off and the centrifugal clutch is doing its factor, a pull (or push) on the gear lever shifts by way of the 4-speed field. And, somewhat than a foot brake for the rear finish, Eak’s opted to maneuver rear brake management to the handlebars setting this Dax up extra like a scooter.
The rear wheel continues to be a 12-inch unit however it’s considerably wider than the inventory model and is wrapped in IRC NR77 rubber. To accommodate the tire Okay-Velocity has lengthened the swingarm which provides to the Hell Hound’s streamlined stance. The bike can be carrying a number of objects from Okay-Velocity’s Diabolus components catalog. These embrace the muffler which is handing off a {custom}, rerouted header, shortened suspension elements entrance and rear, and the wheel cowl that encloses the rear hub.
To complete issues off the Hell Hound has been painted in Okay-Velocity’s customary satin and gloss black paint. White Diabolus and Okay-Velocity graphics on the fairing let passers-by know who to name to purchase one, and a gold and black DID chain provides a contact of sophistication to the entire package deal.
The Hell Hound might seem like it’s out to set a brand new land pace file however regardless of the intensive work achieved to the remainder of the bike, Eak has left its engine untouched. However let’s be sincere, how far more energy might one count on from a 9hp single?
The Hell Hound is presently on the market by way of the K-Speed website. It’s priced at 330,000 Thai Baht which converts to a contact over $9000 USD + delivery. That’s nearly 3 occasions the inventory Dax 125 RRP however contemplating how a lot work has gone into this bike I’d nonetheless think about it an absolute discount.
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