BMW Motorrad presents new custom bike: The Blechmann R 18
With the new BMW R 18, BMW Motorrad presented the brand’s first series production bike for the cruiser segment in April 2020. Like no other BMW motorcycle before it, this model stands entirely in the tradition of historical BMW motorcycles – both technically and with regard to its design. It is based on illustrious models such as the BMW R 5 and shifts the focus back to the motorcycle essentials. Reason enough for Bernhard Naumann to change as little as possible on the frame and the technology and to use only the original mounting points for the creation of the Blechmann R 18.
The Blechmann R 18 in detail.
When starting off with a new creation, Bernhard Naumann never uses sketches in advance. He gathers his inspiration while working on the bike itself. "I draw my design directly on the object using the final material. This allows me to directly respond to the requirements and to keep an eye on the proportions at all times", explains the designer.
For the Belchmann R 18, he initially "put the cart before the horse" in order to be able to correctly assess the proportions for the front fairing. The sporty single-seater is based on the original supporting structure of the rear fender, seat and pillion. The rear light is from Kellermann. The fuel tank has been extensively modified: for one thing, it is narrower making it sportier and exposes the engine even more. On the other hand, it features knee cut-outs, which further support the athletic line. The original steering tube was used as the basis for the stub handlebar.
Next, Blechmann customised the headlights. As with his last BMW custom bike "Giggerl", a conversion of the BMW R nineT, the headlights were to have a subtle kidney-shaped design this time. Analogous to the classic boxer engine, Blechmann placed a filament lamp prominently in the center. Here, too, the steering angle and the forward-tilted headlamp determine the basic layout of the custom bike. Bernhard Neumann perfected his personalisation efforts with discreet black paint and classic white BMW Motorrad pin-stripes. In total, the team around Blechmann worked 450 hours on his version of the BMW R 18.
Defining customising.
Blechmann does not perceive his work to be that of a classic customiser. "My work begins by removing parts of the original version until a white canvas remains. As the construction progresses, the design develops. I call this 'rapid-prototyping-Blechmann-style' ", says the customiser. This is what makes his workshop unique.
Mostly, Blechmann works alone on his craftsmanship and designs. If necessary, he gets support from hand-picked professionals. "You can't do anything in this world on your own. I am more than glad to have a reliable personnel infrastructure".
The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
In 2019, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 175,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2019 was € 7.118 billion on revenues amounting to € 104.210 billion. As of 31 December 2019, the BMW Group had a workforce of 126,016 employees.
The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.
