BMW R18 The Crown – Marks 100 Years Of BMW Motorrad

The BMW Motorrad is celebrating its 100th anniversary. To mark the occasion, Dirk Oehlerking, a well-known customizer built yet another custom BMW boxer. However, this one is quite something else.

Though Dirk Oehlerking has worked on different motorcycles, he is quite known for customising BMW's boxer motorcycles. That being said, this new motorcycle to roll out of Dirk's Kingston Customs is pushing imagination to new heights.

Nicknamed 'The Crown', it is probably one of the weirdest motorcycles on the face of the earth with its neo-retro theme, art deco, and aeronautical elements. In fact, The Crown looks nothing like a motorcycle.

"I started with a new BMW R18 which I then stripped down. As always, I worked with hard foam and cardboard to create the shape, the lines and the design. The aim was for it to look powerful, elegant and fast combined with an innovative look," said Dirk.

To create this motorcycle, a completely new front suspension had to be constructed in the form of a double-sided swinging arm with central suspension strut. While the rear suspension is the same as the original model.

Coming to the body, it is made from a 2mm thick aluminium sheet metal, which is cut, bent and driven by hand. Also, the custom-made 8-litre fuel tank is made from the same material.

Other handmade components that are worth mentioning include the pair of stainless steel exhaust manifolds and leather saddle. This unique-looking leather saddle is also made from 2mm thick aluminium sheet metal wrapped in genuine leather.

That being said, components such as clutch and handbrake fittings are sourced from Magura, whereas the rear mudguards and brackets are from Wunderkind. Also, standard components include headlight, instrument, switches, footrests, and powertrain.

Thoughts About The BMW R18 'The Crown'

The Crown looks nothing like a motorcycle, but it sure attracts the eyeballs of every motorcycle enthusiast - Such is the attention to detail. Also, it completely redefines how a motorcycle should look. Overall, it is a commendable project to mark 100 years of BMW Motorrad.