BMW R80

M-E 136

Some motorcycles are transformed. Others are reimagined.

As with most of our BMW Airhead builds, the rear section was redesigned around our Meister Engineering homologated rear frame, creating a cleaner and more purposeful silhouette while remaining fully road legal.

This project started with a BMW R80R, one of the most modern evolutions of the legendary BMW air-cooled boxer engine. Equipped from the factory with the Paralever rear suspension and original wire-spoke wheels, it already offered an excellent riding platform while preserving the unmistakable character of the classic boxer twins.

Lighting was carefully modernized while keeping the overall design clean and understated. At the rear, compact 3-in-1 LED units integrate indicators, tail light and brake light into a single discreet solution. Up front, a Bates-style headlight and custom front fender contribute to the stripped-back, minimalist aesthetic.

The front fender were designed and handcrafted specifically for this motorcycle. Beyond their visual simplicity lies a considerable amount of engineering and fabrication work.

Each fender is mounted using custom-welded stainless-steel brackets, developed to be as strong and durable as possible while remaining visually discreet and exceptionally lightweight. The objective was not only to reduce weight, but also to eliminate any unnecessary visual mass.

One of the key features of this build is the fuel tank. Rather than retaining the original R80R tank, we fitted a BMW Series 7 tank, instantly giving the motorcycle a more timeless and elegant profile. The client wanted a subtle tribute to the iconic Gulf racing colors, leading to the light blue paintwork accented with fine orange pinstriping. This theme is echoed throughout the bike, including the custom seat, finished with distinctive orange stitching around its perimeter.

To sharpen the stance, the front end was slightly lowered, giving the motorcycle a more aggressive and balanced posture. Since the R80R already benefits from dual Brembo four-piston calipers from the factory, braking performance was further enhanced with the installation of a high-performance master cylinder, delivering improved feel and control without compromising the original character of the bike.

At the front, a specially machined headlight housing accommodates a unique bulb design, adding another bespoke detail to the motorcycle. The cockpit is centred around a Motogadget Chronoclassic instrument, while the switches, mirrors and lighting components also come from Motogadget, bringing modern functionality to a vintage platform without compromising its aesthetics.

The finishing touches include our trusted Hattech exhaust system, a custom CNC-machined fuel cap, blacked-out details throughout the chassis, and a carefully selected mix of modern components and classic design cues.

The result is a motorcycle that perfectly balances vintage inspiration with everyday usability. A machine that feels unmistakably classic at first glance, yet delivers the refinement, reliability and riding experience of one of BMW's most evolved Airhead platforms.