From childhood mountain dreams to daily summer commutes in alpine ski resorts—how Swiss photographer Charly keeps the rugged spirit of classic trail riding alive.
For Swiss photographer, videographer, and surfer Charly (@lychar.tv), motorcycles have always been tied to a sense of pure nostalgia. Since he was a child, he envisioned himself riding an authentic vintage dual-sport machine through high-altitude mountain trails. That vision became reality when he sourced a pristine 1987 Yamaha XT600—a bike packed with mechanical character, simplicity, and rugged charm.
CharlyS 1987 Yamaha XT600
„Ever since I was a kid, my dream was to ride a vintage motorcycle through the mountains.“
Charly
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During summer seasons working at alpine ski resorts, Charly turned the air-cooled single into his daily commuter. Trading smooth tarmac for unpaved gravel paths, the XT600 proved to be in its absolute element. Unpretentious, robust, and versatile, Charly's trail bike is more than just classic machinery—it's a physical reminder of childhood dreams and pure alpine freedom.
THE RIDER
Name: Charly
Base: Switzerland
Garage / Life: Photographer, videographer, surfer, and vintage trail bike enthusiast.
THE MACHINE
Model: 1987 Yamaha XT600
Spec & Mods: Factory classic dual-sport trim, rugged air-cooled single-cylinder setup, purpose-built for mountain terrain and gravel tracks.
IN CONVERSATION WITH Charly
RWN MOTOZINE: Who are you, where are you based, and what do you do when you’re not out riding or in the garage?
Charly: I’m based in Switzerland. Outside of riding, I do photography and videography, and I use my free time to surf. I love capturing beautiful moments, discovering new places, and enjoying everything life has to offer!
RWN MOTOZINE: What is the exact make, model, and year of the bike, and how did you get your hands on it?
Charly: It’s a 1987 Yamaha XT600. I bought it on Leboncoin because I wanted a bike with strong character—authentic and full of charm. I love its vintage style and the sheer joy of taking it out on the road!
RWN MOTOZINE: What have you modified, restored, or tailored on the bike? Was there a specific challenge along the way?
Charly: When I worked at a ski resort in the summer, I took my Yamaha XT600 to work every single morning. The route was mostly mountain paths, so it was truly the ideal terrain for a trail bike! I have incredible memories from that time, riding through magnificent landscapes every day. That’s what I love about this motorcycle: it’s simple, robust, and capable everywhere.
RWN MOTOZINE: Is there a specific memory, road trip, or moment with this bike that stands out to you?
Charly: Ever since I was a kid, my dream was to ride a vintage motorcycle through the mountains. With my 1987 Yamaha XT600, I feel like I’ve fulfilled that dream. I love its authentic style, its rustic feel, and the freedom you experience riding along mountain trails. For me, it’s much more than just a motorcycle—it’s a passion that goes back to my childhood.
RWN MOTOZINE: Charly, thank you for the craft, the time, and for keeping the raw spirit of the culture alive.
Photos : Charly - Story by Sascha Köhmstedt