Each state has its own set of rules regarding club permits but the common aim is to allow old bikes to be brought back to life and ridden. Fundamental to this aim is the interpretation of the regulations. 

An example of a beautifully restored 1976 XS650C.

This page is being put on our website to try and give the members a clearer view of just what is acceptable for a permit and what is not and also why. Here we will try to advise you just what to expect if you present a bike that has extensive modifications or is fundamentally different from what Yamaha had in mind when they made your XS650.

As we read the legislation there is clearly an intent to allow restored bikes to be allowed a permit but just as clearly, the legislation does not favour heavily modified bikes. In discussions had with the powers that be we were told in no uncertain terms that permits given to unsuitable bikes would not be tolerated and if found out would have their permits revoked. This could also lead to the club losing its facility to dispense permits.

Anyone who has read the legislation will have there own interpretation but our reps have been in consultation with their state governing bodies and have a clearer idea of just what these governing bodies require and what is therefore acceptable.

For example in Victoria any bike with a modified frame would automatically require and engineer's report stating the frame was ok for use and that the modifications did not make the bike unsafe. You can deduce from this statement that a bike with a hard tail, mono-shock conversion, single sided swing arm conversion or altered head angle presented for a permit would be rejected and you would be correct. There is however another avenue that can be used to obtain a permit.

Modified Vehicle permits can also be applied to bikes and by joining a club affiliated with Australian Street Rod Federation you can apply for a permit for your modified bike through them.

In the case of a bobber in many cases the original frame is untouched and components are replaced with modern parts, then these would be ok as the legislation allows for some substitution of parts no longer available from the original manufacturer. In the case of a bobber that has some newer parts and components, if it passes a roadworthy certificate then we would be inclined to pass it for a permit provided it is still recognizable as a XS650.

Draft only and Still under construction and not finalized