That’s why the work of Thomas Manno in Rochester, New York immediately caught our attention, as the guy is already making waves in the custom scene despite being a newcomer. He goes by Mile Zero Racers (MZR) and seems to have a strong love for vintage UJMs, along with all the necessary skills and connections to give them the proper custom treatment they deserve.
We don’t know much about Sir Manno’s background or prior experience with motorcycles, but what we can say for sure is that his attention to detail is impeccable. You will find two projects in Mile Zero Racers’ portfolio at this time, both looking outstanding and sharing many design cues which may later become a part of the builder’s signature style. Oh, and the similarities don’t end there, mind you.
The builds were both based on classic Honda CB models and their stories are very much intertwined, so let’s see how it all started. First, Thomas purchased a CB750 and began customizing it around two years ago, but he needed a temporary solution for his riding habits while the said transformation was taking place. Being a motorcycle enthusiast himself, his brother decided to help out with a solution.
He acquired a neat CB450 and had it given to Thomas right away – a kind deed that would be fully repaid later on. When the first project was completed, MZR’s mastermind proceeded to work his magic on the smaller CB as well. The ultimate goal was to hand it back to his brother on his 30th birthday, and no expense would be spared during the customization process.
First things first, Thomas disassembled the retro Honda and gave its parallel-twin engine a thorough inspection. As the powerplant was in good condition on the inside, he simply put it back together with new gaskets while giving it an external clean-up. Some modifications were also made to the intake and exhaust, with the former consisting of a pair of mesh-covered velocity stacks to replace the stock airbox.
At the other end of the combustion cycle, we are greeted by handmade stainless-steel pipework ending in small reverse megaphone silencers. The plumbing is partially covered by a custom-made belly pan, just like the setup found on Mile Zero Racers’ CB750. As for the rest of the bodywork, it is a tasteful combination of custom-built and repurposed components.
We come across a Honda CB200’s fuel tank taking center stage, cleverly adapted to fit on the CB450 frame as if it was always meant to be there. A little further back, there is a single seat wrapped in standard black leather and suede, but the upholstery continues forward to create a very stylish tank strap. Right behind the saddle is a carbon fiber tail section with a cafe racer aesthetic.
The accompanying image shows the handcrafted creation of Thomas Manno, displaying his expertise with various materials. A sleek LED taillight is integrated into the rear, supported by a extensively modified subframe. Additional turn signals are seamlessly attached to the sides, ensuring a clean rear-end lighting setup.
Moving on to the front, a slender front fender is securely fastened with custom brackets, complemented by a range of high-quality LED lighting components. MZR went above and beyond with suspension modifications, transforming the motorcycle’s twin-shock rear system into a monoshock configuration. This required significant adjustments to the swingarm, but the project’s creator successfully achieved a seamless integration.
To enhance performance, a new wheel hub and billet aluminum triple clamps from a Suzuki GSX-R were utilized for the front forks. The same GSX-R contributed its Tokico calipers and drilled brake discs, while the factory CB wheels were replaced with Wrap 9 alternatives. The cockpit of Mile Zero’s elegant cafe racer features a single aftermarket gauge and comfortably positioned clip-on handlebars.
The clip-ons are adorned with discreet switches, sleek bar-end mirrors, and simple rubber grips provided by The Motoworks, a reputable company based in Rochester. After a meticulous rewiring process, Thomas turned his attention to the paint job. A glossy burgundy finish was expertly applied to the fuel tank, belly pan, and front fender, accentuated by white pinstripes adorning the upper bodywork.