BMW R80 GS
M-E 90
Chrome & Dust
For this project, the objective was not to build another café racer or another adventure bike. Instead, we wanted to create something inspired by the earliest scramblers, enduro machines and trial bikes — a motorcycle that would feel visually light despite its substantial BMW heritage. The result is a machine reduced to chrome, black and pure mechanical presence.
To reinforce the lightweight aesthetic, the original fuel tank was replaced by a much smaller 13-liter unit. The tank was then chrome finished to match the frame, creating a striking contrast with the black mechanical components below. The entire motorcycle was intentionally kept free from traditional paintwork, relying solely on polished metal and black finishes to define its character.
The engine, gearbox, swingarm and final drive were refinished in satin black, while the wheels were completely rebuilt using black-coated rims and hubs laced with stainless steel spokes. The result is a subtle but powerful contrast that highlights the architecture of the boxer engine while keeping the overall design clean and purposeful.
Some motorcycles are built to impress. Others are built to evoke a feeling. This BMW R80GS Paralever was created to capture the spirit of the early off-road pioneers — stripped back to the essentials, mechanically honest, and ready to explore beyond the horizon.
Originally introduced in the early 1990s, the BMW R80GS Paralever represented the evolution of the legendary GS concept. Combining the proven air-cooled boxer engine with BMW's advanced Paralever rear suspension system, it offered improved stability both on and off the road. Rugged, versatile, and remarkably capable, the R80GS quickly became one of the most iconic adventure motorcycles ever produced.
The frame was completely disassembled and professionally chrome plated, becoming the visual centerpiece of the motorcycle. A shortened Meister Engineering rear subframe was integrated and fully road homologated, carrying a handcrafted aluminum Husqvarna-inspired rear fender. At the rear, a custom CNC-machined taillight assembly and minimalist license plate holder continue the clean, flowing lines of the bike.
Comfort and usability were never sacrificed. The riding position remains surprisingly natural thanks to an LSL handlebar mounted on fat-bar risers, bringing the controls slightly closer to the rider while maintaining the commanding stance of the original GS. A Motogadget Tiny analog speedometer provides all essential information while preserving the clean and timeless appearance of the cockpit. The slim Alcantara seat continues the minimalist philosophy while remaining comfortable enough to accommodate a passenger when required.
The original front fork was retained for its excellent geometry and off-road capability, then carefully polished and fitted with custom BMW emblems replacing the original reflectors. A minimalist aluminum front fender, chrome-and-black Bates headlight and short exhaust system further emphasize the classic scrambler proportions while visually freeing the rear wheel and reducing unnecessary visual weight.
Performance was also significantly improved. The original braking system was upgraded with a large front brake disc conversion, CNC caliper relocation bracket, Brembo PS master cylinder and braided stainless-steel brake lines. The complete electrical system was redesigned and rebuilt from scratch, while a 1000cc big-bore conversion gives the legendary boxer engine substantially more torque and character. The result is a motorcycle that feels lighter, stronger and more responsive than the machine that left the BMW factory more than three decades ago.
More than a custom motorcycle, this R80GS is a reinterpretation of adventure itself — combining the raw simplicity of vintage off-road machines with the engineering depth of BMW's legendary boxer platform. A motorcycle built to be ridden, explored and admired from every angle.