BMW Rolls Out Bullet-Shaped Bike To Celebrate 100 Years Of Its Motorcycles

German motorcycle customizer Dirk Oehlerking of Kingston Custom is aiding BMW Motorrad in ringing in its centennial celebrations by transforming the BMW R 18. Following the success of his previous creation, the R 18 Spirit of Passion, Oehlerking now introduces the world to his latest design, the ‘R 18 The Crown’.

BMW Motorrad, the motorcycle division of BMW, boasts a storied history that dates back to the early 20th century. The roots of BMW Motorrad can be traced back to 1923 when the company produced its first bike, the BMW R32. 

In honor of its legacy, the bullet-shaped design of The Crown required significant technological adaptations, including a new front wheel suspension with a double-sided swinging arm and central suspension strut.

Its body parts were handcrafted utilizing 2 mm thick aluminum sheet metal to shape the 8-liter fuel tank and other components. The exhaust manifolds were also painstakingly handmade from stainless steel, showcasing Oehlerking’s attention to detail.

The Crown also integrates standard components such as the headlight, instrument, switch units, and footrest system into its striking form.

Aesthetically, The Crown features a Champagne Platinum paint finish with mother-of-pearl accents and the iconic BMW brand emblem adorned with a small crown, symbolizing the celebratory nature of this centennial piece.

Enthusiasts and admirers will have the opportunity to witness the unveiling of the BMW R 18 The Crown during the BMW Motorrad Days in Berlin in July 2023 as part of the celebration of BMW Motorrad’s century of innovation.

[via Yanko Design and AutoBlog, images via BMW]

This article was crafted with assistance from an AI engine, and has been reviewed, edited, and fact-checked.