BMW revealed a new R 18 custom bike, called the ‘Spirit of Passion’

KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Motorrad R18 is one of the exquisite motorcycles in the Bavarian manufacturer's lineup, which seems to be an ideal starting point for building a one-off model. Back in August, we saw a masterpiece created by California designer Roland Sands and now here we have another example of outstanding artistry, which is designed by Kingston Custom, a custom shop run by Dirk Oehlerking. 

The unmistakable design created by the Oehlerking is called the “Spirit of Passion” and it is the second R18 gem of the “SoulFuel” series, a pact between BMW Motorrad and selected customizers.

For customizing R18, Dirk Oehlerking has avoided complete dismantling of the motor chariot, which is quite different from his previous designs. He kept the original parts of the R 18 in the new design. “The BMW R 18 is so perfect that I left the technology as it is. The frame is 100% original and so sophisticated that nothing should be changed here,” he said while explaining his creation based on classic art deco style.

The biggest eye-catcher of the custom bike is the Kingston fairing, which incorporates a huge set of grilles and a massive headlamp positioned right above them. The handlebars and mudguard are also customized in Kingston design, adding sophistication and elegance to the bike.

Oehlerking replaced the BMW R 18 turn indicators with Kellermann indicators and exhaust has also been modified in Kingston Roadster style, while the saddle is drawn from the range of universal accessories. The fairing and wing adopted original paintwork and lines with some detailings in Kingston way. Also, the fuel tank and wheel suspension are original. 

The BMW R 18 Spirit of Passion gets power from BMW's vaunted Big Boxer, the brand’s most powerful flat-twin engine. That’s a 1.8-litre unit churning out a maximum output of  91 hp and a peak torque of 157 Nm. Unlike most modern bikes fitted with a belt, the Big Boxer turns the rear wheel with the help of an external driveshaft.

The designer calls this project “the most impressive of [his> entire career.” He added, “It means a lot to me – if not everything at this moment. The trust that BMW Motorrad has placed in me once again is hugely important to me. I’m very grateful for that.” 

Whether the Spirit of Passion will be added to the BMW Motorrad range as a regular-production model or will it be a limited-edition trim is not clear at this moment.

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