Ever since its inception in 2020, the BMW R 18 cruiser has served as the basis for some exuberant custom motorcycles. And the trend seems strong this year too, as Swiss custom builder (and BMW Motorrad dealer), VTR Customs, has whipped up a custom R 18 inspired by the iconic German transport aircraft - Junkers Ju 51. The motorcycle is ripe with exquisite details and flexes an aircraft-style aesthetic to enchant you, especially if you're a sucker for warplanes.
BMW R 18 ‘Iron Annie’ By VTR Customs
Dubbed the R 18 ‘Iron Annie,’ this custom motorcycle looks vastly different from its stock self, mostly credited to the all-new bodywork sculpted out of aluminum sheet metal. It wraps the motorcycle from head to toe and joins together via dome head fasteners to mimic the rivets of the old-school aircraft. The Ju 52 also lends inspiration for the round, parallel cooling fins near the exhausts and the slender tail end that wears an aircraft-like fin.
Another magnificent detail we can’t help but mention is the plane door-inspired lever on the side that actually activates the R 18’s electric reverse gear. Meanwhile, the design is brought together by revamped fascia, featuring a bespoke cockpit-like windshield and nacelle, paired with an all-LED headlight.
Besides the design, Iron Annie promises a different riding experience too. You sit on a custom leather saddle (finished in brown) and rest your hands on clip-on handlebars rather than the swooped stock handlebar. Sure, it limits the long-distance abilities of the R 18, but hey, who in their right mind would take this unique piece on a tour? Once aboard, you’ll also appreciate the repositioned (tank-mounted) digi-analog instrument cluster and the easier-to-grab adjustable clutch and brake levers.
What further differentiates the riding experience is the underpinnings. The custom R 18 now rolls on custom 21/18-inch spoke wheels (F/R), suspended on lowered front forks and a custom Wilber’s monoshock. However, the 1,802cc, Boxer engine doesn’t contribute much to the differences, since it only has a custom exhaust. The same also goes for the 300 mm front disc brakes and 300 mm single rear disc.
Finally, rounding off all this is an enchanting dual-tone livery inspired by the Ju 52 aircraft flown by Lufthansa in the 30s. While most bodywork is either deep gray or black, the yellow accents add some much-needed contrast to the package. The blue inserts on the engine head, exhaust cover, and fuel tank serve the same purpose.
Can You Buy This Custom BMW R 18?
Sadly, you can’t. Iron Annie was a specifically commissioned project for a VTR customer who’s likely drooling over it as we speak. You should, however, feel free to get in touch with the bike maker, in case you have a vision for your own custom R 18 or any other Beemer. Just don’t forget to set aside a sizable budget, since such projects rarely come cheap.