When you thought of cruisers a few years ago, BMW rarely came to mind. The Bavarian giant, however, wanted to change this notion and thus introduced the R 18 cruiser in 2020. Ever since its debut, BMW has partnered with umpteenth custom bikemakers around the world to showcase the cruiser’s extensive versatility, often resulting in some exceptional builds. It kept the trend going this year too, and joined hands with seven Poland-based bike shops, one of which has crafted a custom R 18 that sports fantastic North American-inspired styling.
The Custom BMW R 18 Has Mexican Vibes From Head To Toe
The custom R 18 - dubbed Speedy Gonzales by its makers - is a bona fide head-turner. It bids adieu to its simple Bavarian skin and welcomes retro Mexican elements such as the custom fenders. Both the front and rear fenders take inspiration from old-school Mexican cruisers – the latter in particular adding a lot of Chicano character to the R 18. Topping this is a custom headlight nacelle and instrument housing color-matched to everything else. Speaking of color, the R 18 adorns a bespoke livery complete with bright colors and unmatched airbrushed details.
Besides the aesthetics, the ergonomics are way different, too. Gone is the R 18’s stock swooped-back handlebar and in comes an extra-tall ape hanger finished in chrome. The custom handlebar pairs with a leather saddle for a laid-back riding posture– perfect for cruisin’ along never-ending American highways. You also get upside-down aftermarket rearview mirrors mounted right behind the custom LED indicators.
The Custom BMW R 18 Has Subtle Mechanical Tweaks
Since this was a BMW-sanctioned project, the Boxer engine and underpinnings had to remain as it is. But this didn’t stop the Polish shop from throwing in some subtle tweaks. For instance, the 1,802cc, twin-cylinder mill is bone stock from the inside (it should belt out the stock 91 horsepower and 116 pound-feet), but it pairs up with custom exhausts - extended fishtail units - for improved aesthetics. Similarly, the shop chucked away the fork covers up top for a slimmer front end that brings out the custom fender. Meanwhile, the brakes, 19/16-inch spoke wheels, and monoshock is completely stock.
Can You Buy This Custom BMW R 18?
Neither BMW nor the bike shop has shed any light on whether the Speedy Gonzales is up for grabs. Given its appeal, though, we’re pretty sure it will find many takers around the world, especially in North America. The only problem will be the freight, but it’s nothing some pink slips can’t figure out. So if you’re interested, we’d suggest you get in touch with BMW Inchcape Poznań - the dealership behind this project.