This BMW R 18 is unlike any of its kind.
The third customizer to add an example into the “SoulFuel” series, a collaboration between BMW Motorrad and customizers, is Shinya Kimura. While he has typically worked on more classically-styled motorcycles, he has been working on more modern examples, including the BMW R 18 that he created. His custom R 18 is named “The Wal” and it’s a motorcycle that Kimura designed to better suit himself and his riding preferences. The Wal features a more front-facing design with a larger and completely custom fuel tank, footrests that have been moved back by two inches. lowered handlebar, a new seat that was handmade by BACKDROP Leathers, coarsely textured paintwork, and much more. The result is a motorcycle that Kimura believes better suits his style.
“What I like best about my version of the R 18 is that I was able to change the style and seating position to my liking without destroying the excellent original functionality of the R 18,” says Kimura. “But drastically changing the seating position and adding my own style and taste was a big challenge in my interpretation of the BMW Heritage. Besides, all these computerized systems and wiring were quite new to me and I learned a lot.”
Source: BMW