Based in Lyon, France, Panache Customs is already garnering a reputation with just their second project. Building on what founder Charles Murillon and partner Ezno Benzoni learned during the design and construction of Falkor, Smaug not only continues the dragon naming convention but also takes inspiration from another unusual place — a wristwatch. The black, gold, and silver palette and clean design of the Rolex Daytona 16523 Zenith were incorporated into Smaug, which started life as a Yamaha XS 360. The work is more than just skin deep, with the bike receiving a complete mechanical rebuild, including Mikuni carbs, YSS progressive fork springs, and Hagon adjustable rear shocks. LED lighting and Motogadget controls and gauges keep the design clean and free of cables and wiring. Each Panache build is bespoke, but Charles and Enzo are always looking for new customers and new ideas.
