Bike Enthusiast’s Dream: 1987 BMW R 80 Gets a Jaw-Dropping Makeover
In a heartwarming tale of love and loss, a 1987 BMW R 80 motorcycle has been transformed into a stunning custom masterpiece. The bike, which belonged to a devoted couple, has been in the family for decades. After the passing of the original owner and his beloved wife, their daughter made the difficult decision to sell the bike to WalzWerk, a renowned custom motorcycle shop. With the utmost confidence in Marcus and his talented team, she knew they would give the bike the overhaul it deserved.
The transformation process began with a complete disassembly of the R 80. The 797cc boxer-twin engine, five-speed gearbox, and driveshaft were given a thorough internal overhaul. The drivetrain hardware, however, was left untouched on the outside to preserve the bike’s beautiful patina, a testament to its extensive travels. To complete the powertrain upgrades, a dual stainless-steel exhaust system from SC-Project was added, adding a touch of style to the already impressive machine.
While the main frame was left unpainted to maintain its original patina, the factory subframe was replaced with a custom-made alternative. This new subframe, crafted in-house by the talented team at WalzWerk, seamlessly blends with the rest of the bike, creating a visually cohesive look from front to back. Multi-function LEDs were strategically placed on the subframe tubing, while the license plate was cleverly mounted on a swingarm bracket, adding to the bike’s sleek appearance.
One of the standout features of the bike is the handmade seat, expertly crafted with black leather on the sides and perforated upholstery on the top section. This stylish addition is supported by a modern adjustable shock absorber from YSS, ensuring a comfortable and smooth ride. The stock suspension hardware at the front was left untouched, preserving the bike’s original design.
The final result is nothing short of breathtaking. WalzWerk’s frontman, captivated by the bike’s rich history, decided to keep it for himself once the project was completed. This means that the beloved BMW R 80 is in safe hands and will continue to be cherished for years to come. With its stunning custom modifications and a nod to its past, this bike is truly a work of art.
Photo credit: WalzWerk
In a stunning transformation, the motorcycle project’s authors have completely revamped the bike’s appearance. The forks have been rebuilt inside out and slightly shortened to achieve the perfect stance. A sleek bespoke fender has been added between the fork tubes, providing functionality without sacrificing style. To enhance stopping power, a second brake caliper identical to the original has been installed, along with drilled aftermarket discs. The OEM wheels have been adorned with Firestone Deluxe Champion rubber, ensuring optimal performance.
While much of the cockpit remains original, a few upgrades have been made. Translucent grips and a Motogadget speedometer add a touch of sophistication. The addition of a LED headlamp, flanked by custom fork sleeves with integrated blinkers, further enhances the bike’s modern aesthetic. All electrical components have been meticulously connected to a new wiring harness, along with a Motogadget control module and a compact lithium-ion battery.
The machine’s gas tank, unfortunately, was too corroded to salvage. However, the team at WalzWerk ingeniously replaced it with a similar unit from a different BMW airhead. The attention to detail is evident in the tailor-made interpretations of the BMW roundels, which now proudly display the WalzWerk logo. To complete the transformation, the bike has been coated in a stunning burgundy finish borrowed from Marcus’ beloved 1959 Porsche 356. This color choice pays homage to the car’s history and complements the R 80’s overall charm.
The result of this meticulous overhaul is a motorcycle that not only turns heads but also embodies the passion and creativity of its creators. With its sleek design, enhanced performance, and unique colorway, this bike is a true masterpiece.
