BMW Motorrad has unveiled its latest masterpiece in the world of custom motorcycles: the R 18 One Eight «C», created by motorcycle customization icon Paul Yaffe. This unique model fuses the classic aesthetics of hot rods with the distinctive essence of BMW, demonstrating the genius of the North American designer.
A Customization Icon
Since 1991, Paul Yaffe has been a reference in the world of motorcycle customization. Not just a builder, but a true designer, Yaffe founded the American Legend Motorcycle Company, which evolved into Bagger Nation, consolidating his reputation as one of the great names in the industry.
Among his numerous awards, three “Most Beautiful Motorcycle in the World” distinctions at the Oakland Roadster Show, two “Builder of the Year” awards, and three “Innovator of the Year” awards from Easyriders magazine stand out. In 2015, he was also inducted into the Sturgis Hall of Fame. His creations have appeared in over 300 magazine articles worldwide and on television shows such as those on the Discovery and History channels.
Now, Yaffe reveals his latest creation, a unique customization of the BMW R 18 B, which will be presented at the MBE Show in Verona, Italy.
BMW and hot rods: a surprising fusion
Before starting the project, Yaffe spent thousands of miles riding the BMW R 18 B across the United States to familiarize himself with the bike and its characteristics. The goal was to create a big wheel bagger that preserved the authenticity of the BMW, avoiding the use of components from its usual product line.
One of the most impressive elements of the customization was the 26-inch front wheel, manufactured from a solid block of aluminum weighing 400 pounds. The frame had to be lengthened and adjusted to accommodate this imposing wheel, and specific systems were also developed to optimize handling. Inspired by the classic style of the 1950s Mercury Lead Sled, the team created exclusive components, such as a front fender made from scratch and an original R 18 fairing that was restructured to align perfectly with the new design. An additional piece, the front spoiler, was developed to fill the gap between the fairing and the fuel tank, strategically concealing the radiator.
The saddlebags also received special attention. Yaffe kept the original BMW lids, latches, and speakers, creating new “skins” to give the saddlebags a longer, more elegant profile without compromising functionality.
The essence of Lead Sled: air suspension and side pipes
To respect the Lead Sled style, Yaffe prioritized two elements: air suspension and side pipes. An advanced compressed air system was developed to integrate storage tanks, a compressor, and all necessary controls, discreetly installed under the saddlebags. As for the exhausts, Yaffe made sure to preserve the unique character of the BMW, keeping the iconic pipes of the Boxer engines. The catalysts were removed, giving way to a high-performance baffle system that ensures ideal back pressure and a characteristic hot rod sound.
Excellent finishes
Aesthetically, the bike opts for simplicity. The focus was on an elegant silhouette and a glossy black finish, without distracting graphics. In contrast, the interior was painted in a classic oxblood red. The seat and dashboard were carefully upholstered, while the front brake calipers received a matching color, adding a touch of sophistication.
The BMW R 18 One Eight «C» personifies what the art of two wheels is and this true work of art by Paul Yaffe has managed to unite the heritage of BMW with the unmistakable aesthetics of hot rods, creating a machine that impresses both for its beauty and for the attention to technical detail.
The bike reflects the perfect balance between the past and the future, and is a tribute to the visionary design that continues to inspire the world of customization.
Source: BMW
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