A collaboration between designer Nicolas Petit and engineers from the German accessory company, the new Wunderlich RockBob BMW R 18 concept bike is a good example of how small details all combine to create a custom motorcycle. Which is handy when for a company that makes motorcycle parts.
It also means it’s relatively possible for you to create something similar, especially as the RockBob BMW R 18 concept bike has been built to be street legal, so everything fitted is either exempt from registration, has German Type approval or can be registered after further assessment.
The saddle is fairly noticeable, and will be apparently added to the Wunderlich range soon, including a black version. But for the RockBob, they’ve used partially dimaond stitched cognac-coloured leather, which is matched by the handlebars. And that provides a much needed contrast to the matt black painted engine, exhaust systems, and mudguards, which sit close to the tyres.
Along with the custom Wunderlich aluminium mudguards, there’s also a custom numberplate holder from the firm, which moves everything over to the left of the wheel, along with low profile 3-in-1 tail lights. The rear wheel is moved up to a 200/60-16 rear tyre on the spoked rim, with everything also finished in black, as you might be coming to expect by now.
The handlebars add a custom 32mm riser for a comfortable riding posititon, and the indicators, adjustable clutch and brake levers, handlebar end mirrors and more all come from the Wunderlich range. So while it isn’t the most radical custom BMW you might ever see, it’s a relatively achievable version which demonstrates how many of the parts for the R 18 actually look when they’re installed properly. And that’s handy if you’re searching for some inspiration for your own bike.
There’s not too much more to add, and with concept and custom bikes it all comes down to personal taste. But if you’re looking for a UK supplier for any of the parts featured, then you can find them exclusively through Nippy Normans.
Personally, I quite like it. It’s got some nice touches to make it stand out from a standard bike, and it’s always nice to see how you can create something a little special without necessarily being a professional custom bike builder armed with an angle grinder and welding torch.
You can check out all our coverage of new, classic, and custom BMW motorcycles, here. Including Wunderlich parts like the releatively recent Cockpit Fairing, or more radical customs like the Spirit of Passion from Kingston Customs. If you’re looking for a secondhand BMW R 18 to start customising, have you checked out the selection available on eBay recently?
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