BMW R80 GS Basic
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Some motorcycles are so iconic that most enthusiasts would never dare to modify them. The BMW R80 GS Basic is one of those machines.
Produced as one of the final air-cooled two-valve Boxer GS models, the Basic combined the proven Paralever chassis of the later GS generation with the compact 19.5-liter tank inspired by the earlier R80 G/S Monolever, creating what many consider the perfect balance between the original G/S spirit and the more modern GS platform. Today, it has become one of the most sought-after and collectible airhead BMWs ever built.
For this reason, we deliberately preserved the iconic factory color scheme. The original white tank and blue frame remain at the heart of the motorcycle's identity. In fact, the Basic itself was already something of a factory "Frankenstein" machine: a modern Paralever GS chassis paired with the smaller G/S-style fuel tank and several elements like rear frame inspired by BMW's earlier generations. We simply pushed that concept one step further.
To modernize the front end, we installed a long-travel inverted BMW suspension setup. This perfectly reflects our philosophy: using BMW engineering to improve BMW motorcycles. Combined with significantly upgraded braking components, the result is a motorcycle that feels dramatically more precise, capable and confidence-inspiring than the original machine.
A phone mount was also integrated into the cockpit, making navigation effortless during long-distance adventures without compromising the clean design of the dashboard.
The exhaust system is equipped with our signature Hattech silencers, for which Meister Engineering is the official Swiss importer. It provide the perfect finishing touch, delivering both the sound and visual presence expected from a premium Trail air-cooled boxer build.
When our German client approached us with this project, he knew exactly what he was asking for.
The goal was never to erase the identity of the R80 GS Basic, but rather to imagine what BMW might have built if the model had continued evolving while remaining faithful to its original philosophy.
The entire motorcycle was carefully disassembled and rebuilt around the original chassis color of the frame and original paint of the fuel tank. The transformation is therefore reversible, preserving the historical value of the bike while offering a completely new riding experience.
One of the most distinctive features of this build is the custom rally-inspired front fairing. The original Basic fairing offered limited wind protection, so we developed a new windshield to improve long-distance comfort. Completing the front end is a handcrafted aluminum front fender produced by our friends at REMMotorcycle, whose craftsmanship perfectly matches our vision for classic BMW builds.
At the rear, a premium Öhlins suspension system provides exceptional control both on the road and off the beaten path. Every component was selected to elevate the riding experience while respecting the spirit of the original GS.
The result is a motorcycle that remains unmistakably a BMW R80 GS Basic, yet feels like the ultimate evolution of the concept: lighter, sharper, more comfortable, more capable and ready for another lifetime of adventure.
A true tribute to one of BMW's greatest motorcycles.