PressClub Global · Article.
BMW Motorrad presents new custom bike: The Blechmann R 18.
Fri Aug 21 19:00:00 CEST 2020 Press Release
Bernhard Naumann, also known as Blechmann in the customizing scene, presents his version of the BMW R 18.
Press Contact.
Dominik Schaidnagel
BMW Group
Tel: +49-89-382-50181
Fax: +49-89-382-28567
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Salzburg, 21 August 2020. A strong character needs a
strong name. “Blechmann” is a name as strong as metal. It is also the
nickname of Bernhard Naumann, a renowned customizer from Austria.
Together with BMW Motorrad he presents his latest creation: 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 customized 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 personalization 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 customizing.
Blechmann does not
perceive his work to be that of a classic customizer. "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 customizer.
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".
Disclaimer:
The vehicles shown here may be modified and equipped with third party custom parts and/or self-made components that are neither manufactured nor distributed or tested by BMW. BMW accepts no liability for such modifications (including installation, characteristics and use of the shown custom parts/components). ATTENTION: Modification of series vehicles (including installation and use of third-party custom parts and/or self-made components) may impair riding characteristics! Riding modified BMW vehicles is at your own risk.
You will find press material on BMW motorcycles and BMW Motorrad
rider equipment in the BMW Group PressClub at www.press.bmwgroup.com.
In case of queries, please contact:
Dominik
Schaidnagel, BMW Motorrad Communications
Telephone: +49 89 382
50181, E-Mail: Dominik.Schaidnagel@bmw.de
Tim Diehl-Thiele, Head of Communications BMW
Motorrad
Telephone: +49 89 382 57505, E-Mail: Tim.Diehl-Thiele@bmw.de
Jennifer Treiber-Ruckenbrod, Head of Communications MINI and BMW Motorrad
Telephone: +49 89 382 35108, E-Mail: Jennifer.Ruckenbrod@bmwgroup.com
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