Hermes expands its horizons

The jacket, the boots, the gloves – leather and motorcycles are intrinsically linked. Similarly, high-end luxury goods specialist Hermes is known for its leather goods so, although you’re more likely to associate it with luggage, it has previously expanded its interests and designed cars and helicopters.

Its latest detour into the motoring world is this overhaul of a VMAX, made in conjunction with Yamaha. A one-off concept, Hermes’ designers have covered most non-mechanical parts of the bike in Skipper buffalo hide, including the petrol tank and the mudguards. And where the leather wasn’t appropriate (like the mirrors and exhaust) have applied a brushed aluminium finish.

But, as surprising as it might seem that Hermes is working on bikes, this isn’t the first time the companies have collaborated. They worked together 15 years ago for a similar project involving Yamaha’s Virago.

Sadly, as is always the way with concepts, this is where we break it to you that it isn’t available to buy. Still, it’s too nice to risk riding anyway.