In 1992, Honda released the XR650L, which combined the proven RFVC (Radial Four Valve Chamber) single-cylinder engine from the NX650 Dominator with the lighter, more off-road capable chassis from the XR600R. The result? One of the most popular dual-sport motorcycles of all time, still in production more than 30 years later.
The 650L has barely changed over that time. It remains air-cooled and carbureted, with a low-compression motor (8.3:1) that will run forever. While it wasn’t the Baja racer with lights that some off-road enthusiasts originally hoped for, it has dual-sporting advantages like electric start, a wide powerband, and a top speed of over 100 mph…and doesn’t require the frequent and expensive maintenance of a highly stressed racing machine.
The XR650L has also proved itself a great candidate for customization — in fact, Dirt Rider has called the bike “Prime Project Bike Material,” largely due to 30+ years of aftermarket parts, expertise, and community knowledge about the bike.
This 650L supermoto comes to us from our new friend Ruddybel, via photographer Porfirio Hidalgo (@porfishidalgo). Ruddybel has loved dirt and sport bikes since he was a kid, and decided to make his childhood dreams come true by building his dream bike together with his buddy Jonas. He wanted a racy 650 supermotard that looked like it could tear up the track as well as the street, while remaining practical for daily use.
The big-bore single is now sitting on a set of 17-inch Warp 9 Elite supermoto wheels with premium Michelin Power 5 sport bike rubber and an oversized front brake. The engine breathes through a full stainless Big Gun exhaust for better power and sound, and many other components have been added or upgraded: aftermarket handlebars, clutch cover, LED headlight, bash plate, and more.
All in all, it’s a great looking 650L, and a hoot around town.
“Now with the supermoto wheels it’s amazing to ride on the street — feels so smooth and good.”
Below we talk to Ruddybel for the full story on the build, with more photos courtesy of Porfirio Hidalgo (@porfishidalgo) — enjoy!
Builder Interview
• Please tell us a bit about yourself, your history with motorcycles, and your workshop.
Hello there! My name is Ruddybel, and I’ve been a huge fan of dirtbikes and sportbikes since I was a kid. Now that I’m an adult, I’ve finally made my dream come true. I decided to build my own dream bike, and I made it a Honda XR650L supermoto. I want it to be really different from the others, so I’m excited to see how the public likes it.
• What’s the make, model, and year of the donor bike?
It’s a Honda XR650L, 2025.
• Why was this bike built?
It’s a personal build and my dream bike forever.
• What was the design concept and what influenced the build?
It was influenced by MotoGP and the idea to make it racy like a superbike or sport bike. Now my Honda XR650L is somewhere in the middle.
• What custom work was done to the bike?
Supermoto wheels, Michelin tires, a better handlebar, LED headlight, a really nice looking clutch engine cover, and the most important, a great exhaust (Big Gun).
• Any idea of horsepower, weight, and/or performance numbers?
It’s completely stock at 43 horsepower, just 6 pounds extra — it’s a really comfortable bike
• Can you tell us what it’s like to ride this bike?
Now with the supermoto wheels it’s amazing to ride on the street — feels so smooth and good.
• Was there anything done during this build that you are particularly proud of?
The time. Between my work and lack of free time to work on it, it was painful because I wanted the project the project done quick.
• Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
My friend Jonas, who was 50% responsible for helping me with this build.
Follow the Photographer
Photographer: Porfirio Hidalgo (@porfishidalgo)
Cool build but why put a pipe on it and not take off the smog pump and the other hardware associated with it. That was the 1st thing I did to my 650L.
To his credit, he said it’s the next thing he’s doing!
I build my xr 650l my self started with a crf 450 front forks and upper lower triple trees then warp 9 17 in wheels full Yoshi exhaust Mukuni pumper carb lowered rear 1 inch love this bike any one doing this the front forks were the best upgrade
It’s a good start, but I’m surprised this was posted here. In my view, it needs more customization to qualify as a “build”. Not to sound overly harsh, but the guy didn’t even get rid of that hideous stock taillight. I think he’s on the right track with it, but I was expecting more.