BMW Motorrad: two interpretations of BMW R 18 at the 2022 edition of Motor Bike Expo [PHOTO]

On the occasion of the Motor Bike Expo, veronafiere twigs 13 al 16 January 2022, two interesting customization projects based on were shown BMW R 18. Two results of the collaboration of BMW Motorrad Italia and the dealer network with historical references in the panorama. The project R 18 Aurora was created by Garage 221 on the initiative of BMW Motorrad Roma, while the R 18M it is a project conceived by LowRide and curated by American Dream.

The BMW R 18 Aurora project

The work initially focused on the study of the various sections of the model, considering the need to connect the new components to the line, recalling the cruisers of the 70s. A characterizing aspect of the project BMW R 18 Aurora developed by Garage 221 are the fenders that wrap around the wheel and the central area of ​​the model appears highlighted. Another interesting aspect, then, is the oil radiator grille, which recalls the grille of BMW cars dating back to the 60s.

The various interventions are the result of experience in the BMW world of Garage 221, considering the elements that come from other models. For example, for the color of the bodywork the reference is the code of a 100 BMW RT 1983, customizing the graphics in its shades and intensity. Furthermore, the mudguard supports in the front and rear areas, the saddle supports and the arm with the license plate holder are entirely defined by hand.
The seat comes from a 1200 BMW 2005 C, while the Batwing supports were developed using arrow supports from a 100 BMW R 1982 and part of a rear subframe from a 75 BMW K1991.
Finally, the exhausts were created in collaboration with Leo Vince, paying particular attention to the sound. The design was specifically designed to give personality to the central area.

The BMW R 18 M project

The acronym M is linked to BMW's sportiness. An idea for the project BMW R 18 M which the LowRide editorial team covered, with a more aggressive vision of the German cruiser, always with references to tradition.
For this creation, made possible by BMW Italia, LowRide involved some of the best Italian artisans, as well as specialized companies. The development of the sketches was entrusted to designer Oberdan Bezzi, a past partner of LowRide. American Dreams took care of the assembly and coordinated the work; therefore Elaboratorio, a specialist in the prototyping and modeling branch, defined the fiberglass fairing, tail and tip from scratch. Carbon Italy took care of the cylinder head covers and intake ducts, along with other carbon fiber details. Moving on to accessories, Rizoma is mentioned, listing universal mirrors, knobs and arrows considering the type of project. LR Leather covered the saddle in leather, while the painting was done by Dox Art Factory.

Finally, the short exhaust, designed to offer a more compact view and favor greater lean angles, is marked ER Exhaust Revolution. The short exhausts also highlight the exposed nickel-plated cardan shaft.
The work focused on the chassis and chassis, also considering the bodywork and accessories; the mechanics and electronics remained unchanged. The result is a lightened example with a different driving position projected forward, as underlined.

Photo: BMW Motorrad – BMW Group