Yamaha XJ6 caddy

It's easy to forget, but Franco Sbarro doesn't just work on cars. Part of his work involves modifying and creating motorcycles. In fact, it all began with the transformation of a scooter when he was about fifteen.

 
The caddy, a sort of shopping bag, fits between the two front wheels (photo by Sbarro).

A caddy between the wheels

At Geneva 2010, Franco Sbarro presented a Yamaha XJ6 whose front wheel has been swapped for a two-wheel module incorporating a small removable caddy. The latter easily accommodates a helmet and is fitted with two small wheels, enabling it to be transported much like a wheeled suitcase.

Here, the caddy is in place on the motorcycle. The caddy handle surrounds the headlight.

Three wheels

A motorcycle with two wheels at the front is not a new concept. For some time now, Piaggio has been marketing its mp3, which has been a great commercial success. This time, the Sbarro system is applied to a larger-displacement bike. The fork is removed and the "caddy" is simply placed in its place. The bike can be parked vertically. A lever under the front brake lever locks the system so that you can remain stationary without putting a foot down. When riding, the system is released and the motorcycle can be angled for cornering.

Here, the XJ6 without the caddy.

A simple concept

This tricycle caddy isn't aimed at sport riders, who won't see the need for it, but rather at enthusiasts who use motorcycles as an alternative means of travel, and would like to add some practicality to their bike. Sbarro has chosen a versatile, medium-displacement motorcycle. This simple, innovative concept could find a certain clientele.

In brief
1- Three-wheeled Yamaha XJ6
2- A caddy fits between the wheels
3- Simple, ingenious system