THOMAS MANNO: THE NEWCOMER MAKING WAVES IN CUSTOM MOTORCYCLES
Thomas Manno, a rising star in the custom motorcycle scene, is causing quite a stir in Rochester, New York. Known as Mile Zero Racers (MZR), Manno’s attention to detail and passion for vintage UJMs (Universal Japanese Motorcycles) has garnered him a strong following in a short amount of time.
With a portfolio consisting of two projects, Manno’s work showcases his impeccable design skills and signature style. Both builds, based on classic Honda CB models, share similarities that tie them together seamlessly.
The journey began when Manno purchased a CB750 and started customizing it two years ago. However, he needed a temporary ride while the transformation took place. Thankfully, his brother, also a motorcycle enthusiast, gifted him a CB450 to use in the meantime.
Once the first project was completed, Manno turned his attention to the smaller CB450. His goal was to present it to his brother as a birthday gift, and no expense was spared during the customization process.
Manno meticulously disassembled the retro Honda, giving its parallel-twin engine a thorough inspection. Satisfied with its condition, he reassembled it with fresh gaskets and performed an external clean-up. He also made some modifications to the intake and exhaust, replacing the stock airbox with mesh-covered velocity stacks.
The handmade stainless-steel pipework, ending in small reverse megaphone silencers, adds a unique touch to the bike. A custom belly pan, similar to the one found on MZR’s CB750, partially covers the plumbing. The bodywork is a combination of custom-built and repurposed parts, with a Honda CB200 fuel tank taking center stage. Manno skillfully adapted it to fit the CB450 frame flawlessly.
Moving towards the rear, a sleek solo seat wrapped in black leather and suede catches the eye. The upholstery seamlessly extends forward, forming a stylish tank strap. Completing the look is a carbon fiber tail section, exuding cafe racer vibes.
Thomas Manno’s Mile Zero Racers is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the world of custom motorcycles. With his attention to detail and ability to transform vintage UJMs into stunning works of art, it’s no wonder he’s making waves in the industry. Keep an eye out for more incredible projects from this talented newcomer.
Mile Zero Racers Unveils Stunning Custom Cafe Racer
In a remarkable display of craftsmanship, Thomas Manno of Mile Zero Racers has created a jaw-dropping custom cafe racer. Manno’s skills extend far beyond one material, as he has expertly fabricated every detail of this stunning machine.
One of the standout features of this cafe racer is the sleek LED taillight seamlessly integrated into the back. Manno has also completely redesigned the subframe, adding aftermarket turn signals to the tubing on the sides, resulting in a clean and uncluttered rear-end lighting package.
Manno’s attention to detail extends to the front of the bike as well. A slim front fender, held in place by custom brackets, is complemented by a full suite of LED lighting. The suspension has been extensively modified, with the twin-shock rear setup converted to a monoshock arrangement. This required significant adjustments to the swingarm, but Manno’s expertise prevailed, resulting in a flawless final product.
To enhance the bike’s performance, Manno installed Suzuki GSX-R inverted forks using a new wheel hub and billet aluminum triple clamps. The front Tokico calipers and drilled brake discs were also sourced from the GSX-R. Additionally, the factory CB hoops were replaced with Wrap 9 alternatives. The cockpit of Mile Zero’s cafe racer features a single aftermarket dial and clip-on handlebars positioned at the perfect height.
The attention to detail continues with stealthy switches, underslung bar-end mirrors, and plain rubber grips, all supplied by The Motoworks, a reputable company based in Rochester. After a meticulous rewiring process, Manno completed the project with a flawless paint job. A glossy coat of burgundy was applied to the fuel tank, belly pan, and front fender, accentuated by elegant white pinstripes adorning the upper bodywork.
Mile Zero Racers has truly outdone themselves with this custom cafe racer. Manno’s impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail shine through in every aspect of this remarkable machine.
