BMW R100S

M-E 01

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

1977 BMW R100S – Reimagining a Legend

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

Introduced in 1976, the BMW R100S represented the sporting evolution of BMW's famous boxer twins. Powered by a 980 cc air-cooled flat-twin producing approximately 65 horsepower, it offered strong torque, remarkable reliability and effortless long-distance performance. Distinguished by its small factory "bikini fairing" inspired by the legendary R90S, the R100S combined touring comfort with genuine sporting character, becoming one of the most desirable boxer models of its era.

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

Reliability and everyday usability were just as important as appearance. The motorcycle received a completely redesigned electrical system, replacing BMW's original charging circuit and heavy wiring harness with a modern, simplified electrical architecture. A lightweight battery dramatically reduces weight while improving reliability. At the front sits a crystal-clear Bates headlight, while the rear lighting is elegantly integrated into the café racer tail section through a discreet LED strip, maintaining clean lines without sacrificing visibility. Every visible detail was considered to create a motorcycle that feels both authentic and thoroughly engineered.

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

The chassis follows the same philosophy of combining engineering with timeless aesthetics. Inspired by the legendary Rickman motorcycles of the 1970s, the entire frame received a nickel-plated finish, whose warm metallic tone perfectly complements the handcrafted Hattech OYK stainless-steel exhaust system with visible TIG welds. The gloss black powder-coated wheel rims reinforce the visual balance while echoing the deep black bodywork. Rear suspension is handled by fully adjustable Bitubo shock absorbers, while the front fork features modern adjustable cartridge internals for dramatically improved control and feedback. Braking performance was equally transformed by replacing the original cable-operated under-tank master cylinder with a Brembo PS master cylinder, delivering a far more precise, powerful and confidence-inspiring braking feel.

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

Some motorcycles deserve to be restored. Others deserve to be reinterpreted. This 1977 BMW R100S was conceived as a tribute to one of BMW's most charismatic airheads, carefully blending its unmistakable heritage with a cleaner, sharper and more purposeful café racer identity.

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

Our objective was never to erase the personality of the R100S, but to amplify it. The original frame was paired with a fully homologated custom rear subframe, carrying a handcrafted café racer seat cowl that creates a perfectly flowing tail section. A bespoke fuel tank was developed specifically for this build. While maintaining the original width and visual proportions, it is slightly shorter in its lower section, giving the motorcycle a noticeably lighter and more dynamic profile without compromising the iconic silhouette of BMW's boxer platform.

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

Our objective was never to erase the personality of the R100S, but to amplify it. The original frame was paired with a fully homologated custom rear subframe, carrying a handcrafted café racer seat cowl that creates a perfectly flowing tail section. A bespoke fuel tank was developed specifically for this build. While maintaining the original width and visual proportions, it is slightly shorter in its lower section, giving the motorcycle a noticeably lighter and more dynamic profile without compromising the iconic silhouette of BMW's boxer platform.

BMW R100 S Custom Meister

Mechanically, the renowned 980 cc boxer engine was completely rebuilt before receiving several carefully chosen upgrades. The original large-valve cylinder heads were converted to a dual-plug ignition system, using two spark plugs per cylinder. This significantly improves combustion efficiency by allowing the flame front to travel more evenly across the combustion chamber, resulting in smoother running, easier starting, improved throttle response and reduced detonation—particularly beneficial on large air-cooled boxer engines. Dell'Orto carburetors provide sharper throttle response while preserving the unmistakable mechanical character of a classic boxer. An enlarged oil sump increases oil capacity for improved cooling and lubrication during spirited riding. The engine and final drive were finished in satin black, contrasting beautifully against the polished aluminum cylinder fins.

This R100S is more than a custom motorcycle—it is our interpretation of what BMW's sporting boxer could have become if its designers had been given today's craftsmanship while remaining faithful to the spirit of the late 1970s. A machine where engineering, proportion and timeless design come together in perfect harmony.