Custom Kawasaki Zephyr 750: Military-Inspired Café Racer Built by Tumulte

Expert Craftsmanship from Tumulte’s Frederic Lagarde

Nestled in the scenic town of Gaillac, France, Tumulte has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the custom motorcycle scene. At the helm is Frederic Lagarde, renowned for his engineering background on GT race cars and a keen eye for motorcycle design. His transition to custom bikes has led to a series of impressive creations, merging technical expertise with bold aesthetics.

The Kawasaki Zephyr 750: A Unique Foundation

The spotlight here is on a one-off Kawasaki Zephyr 750, brought to life in 2023. Starting from a 1991 base model, Frederic transformed this classic into a military-themed café racer, answering a bespoke request from a passionate client. While the Zephyr’s silhouette channels strong café racer DNA, subtle brat and scrambler cues echo throughout, rounding out the motorcycle's character and stance.

Design and Custom Features

To achieve this striking look, almost all original bodywork was stripped away, leaving only the signature fuel tank. Frederic replaced the factory subframe with a handcrafted, looped steel alternative that completely alters the bike's rear profile. A streamlined tail tidy unit integrates a license plate holder and full LED lighting setup for modern functionality. Atop sits a custom-made black leather seat, hand-stitched in a classic diamond pattern, merging comfort with style.

A compact lithium-ion battery is tucked right beneath the seat, connected via a new, in-house wiring harness—highlighting Tumulte’s attention to reliability and detail. Up front, the original suspension remains, but a more minimalist fender and a high-end Koso LED headlight create a sleeker, more aggressive face. The sophisticated lighting is mounted with a custom bracket for a clean finish.

Cockpit and Controls

Riders are greeted with a billet aluminum top clamp, digital Koso instrumentation, and clip-on handlebars fitted with Biltwell grips for both functionality and timeless appeal. The upgraded LED turn signals are neatly positioned near the oil cooler, blending seamlessly with the overall aesthetic.

Engineering and Performance Upgrades

The Kawasaki Zephyr’s robust inline-four engine underwent a complete overhaul, ensuring both reliability and performance befitting a modern custom. Breathing is improved through BMC pod air filters and a Delkevic stainless-steel four-into-one exhaust system, enhancing the exhilarating soundtrack and unlocking extra power. Notably, Frederic preserved the original wheels, brakes, and engine exterior to maintain authenticity and showcase the bike's unique patina—an homage to its history.

Distinct Military Motif and Finishing Touches

A true standout, the fuel tank is wrapped in matte olive green and emblazoned with striking white U.S. Army star graphics, underscoring the military influence. The powder-coated black wheels and frame tie the theme together, offering a stealthy, cohesive appearance that brings the military café racer vision to life.

Market Positioning and Comparisons

This custom Zephyr 750 positions itself as a premium alternative for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a blend of vintage motorcycle presence, modern functionality, and exclusive design. While many café racer builds utilize newer platforms, Tumulte’s approach pays respect to the original Zephyr’s character, setting it apart from mass-produced rivals. With its unique military theme and hand-built details, this motorcycle stands as a head-turning, road-ready masterpiece for the global custom bike scene.