The Honda NX650 Dominator has become a darling of the modern customs scene. The tried-and-true big single is perfect for running the gauntlet of urban commutes, jumping curbs and finding back-alley shortcuts, then shooting out into the country on the weekends. We showcase a lot of these 650 Dominator builds simply because we love them, and we’re always interested in what builders will do next with the platform.
Enter Nicolas Margolles, a frigoriste — refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic — from Pau, a township on the northern edge of the Pyrenees in southwest France. Inspired by some of the previous Dominators we’ve featured, as well as the work of our friend Spencer Parr of Parr Motorcycles, Nicolas wanted to build a simple, clean machine he could ride into town. Working out of his garage, he managed to create an NX650 “city scrambler” that looks like something Honda itself might have created in the 1980s, if people had been interested in a rugged, stripped-down enduro for daily commuting and weekend fun.
Below, we get the full story on this garage-built big single scrambler.
Honda Dominator City Scrambler: Builder Interview
• Please tell us a bit about yourself, your history with motorcycles, and your workshop.
I live in south west of France (64000 Pau) and I’m a frigorist. I wish to make a simple and clean motorcycle to ride into town.
• What’s the make, model, and year of the bike?
Honda NX650 Dominator 1992.
• Why was this bike built?
Only by me, in my garage, this is my third project.
• What was the design concept and what influenced the build?
Creations on Instagram, your page, Parr Motorcycles…
• What custom work was done to the bike?
I’ve been working with glass fiberwork for the first time… to create the seat, it was a nice experience.
Tank from a Honda CG125.
For the wheels: 17” front with 120/70r17 tkc80 and 17” rear with 130/80r17 tkc 80.
• How would you classify this bike?
Scrambler for the city.
• Was there anything done during this build that you are particularly proud of?
No, this is a simple project.
Follow the Builder @Ba_babs
