Back in the 1950s, two English brothers named Don and Derek Rickman decided to jump into the motorcycle market by building frames of their own design. Both experienced dirt riders, they took experience racing motocross around Europe and materialized it in the form of the “Metisse.” Beyond its premium craftsmanship — it was machined from a lightweight chromoly, and there were no brazed lugs to detract from its sharp nickel-plated finish — the frame also boasted the unique ability to accept almost any manufacturer’s engine. (Its name actually comes from the French word for Mongrel.)
Though the Metisse brand has changed hands several times since the Rickman brothers’ passing, it’s still very much alive and well. In fact, the company introduced an all-new frame in 2005 — the Mk5 — complete with its own bespoke engine.
Typically, Metisses were assembled around Triumph- and BSA-sourced powerplants, but the bike before you actually features a motor from a Yamaha XS650. The seller states that it has been built up with a 750 kit and some round slide Mikuni carbs, and that the bike sports a Betor front end along with some Noleen shocks and XT500 hubs. Thanks to the lights, horn, and indicators, it’s currently street legal.
Offered on a Bill of Sale, it also includes a spare front fender, a number plate, an airbox, and a Mk3 motocross tank – all color-matched and made from original Rickman fiberglass. You can find it for sale in Richland, Texas with a BIN of $10,000 here on eBay.