Japan, renowned for its innovative custom bike builders, has seen many talented individuals push the boundaries of motorcycle design. One such builder is Takashi Nihira of Wedge Motorcycle in Tokyo, whose unique blend of retro aesthetics and precise proportions has garnered significant attention.
With a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, Nihira often receives complete creative freedom from his clients, allowing him to transform motorcycles into stunning works of art. The owner of this BMW R 100 RS street tracker shared a similar trust in Nihira’s abilities, requesting only that the project be based on an older airhead model.
Nihira initially sought to use a twin shock R variant but faced challenges finding an affordable option in Japan. As a result, he opted for the monoshock-equipped RS and began by stripping away the bike’s stock bodywork.
This initial teardown revealed a significant structural issue: the engine’s awkward placement within the frame. Unwilling to compromise on aesthetics, Nihira decided to rebuild the entire top section of the engine to align it with the frame’s backbone. This meticulous modification resulted in a much more visually appealing and balanced motorcycle.
Below the top engine cover, Nihira installed a custom battery tray and airbox, which draws air through a high quality K&N pod filter. The air cooled powerplant also underwent a thorough internal rebuild and now exhales through handcrafted stainless-steel pipes that terminate in twin SuperTrapp mufflers on the left side.
With the powertrain modifications complete, Nihira turned his attention to the structural aspects of the bike. The R 100’s original character has been preserved while enhancing its aesthetic appeal and performance. The minimalist cockpit, featuring a bespoke handlebar, bare-bones switchgear, and Brembo control levers, creates a clean and uncluttered look.
The digital Motoscope Mini dial from Motogadget adds a touch of modern technology while maintaining the bike’s classic aesthetic. Nihira has also upgraded the bike’s performance with enhancements to the suspension and brakes. The forks have been upgraded with fresh internals to improve handling, and the rear suspension features an adjustable YSS shock absorber.
The front end stopping power has been increased with beefier Brembo calipers, and the wheels are shod in Dunlop Trailmax tires for optimal traction. The Effect is a stunning and highly functional custom motorcycle that showcases Nihira’s exceptional craftsmanship and design skills.
