The BMW R 18, a cruiser that’s been making waves in the motorcycle world, has been a canvas for countless custom builds. One such build comes from the talented hands of Sapka Muvek, a Hungarian builder with a reputation for creating stunning custom motorcycles.
Muvek, whose real name is Pakozdi Tamas, has a history of success in the custom bike scene, having won numerous awards at the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building. His expertise in the field is evident in the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterize his work.
Muvek’s latest project involved transforming a stock BMW R 18 into a one-of-a-kind custom machine. The build was commissioned by Tibor, a client who had a clear vision for the final product. Muvek, who had initially planned to retire from custom bike building, was drawn back to the scene by the opportunity to work on such an exciting project.
Muvek’s approach to the build was one of refinement rather than radical modification. He began by removing the factory fenders at both ends of the bike, creating a cleaner and more streamlined look. The original rear mudguard, which was not to Muvek’s liking, was replaced with a custom-made piece that complemented the design.
The rest of the build involved a series of subtle but effective modifications. Muvek tweaked the suspension, brakes, and engine to improve performance and handling. He also added a few custom touches, such as a new seat and handlebars, to give the bike a unique personality. The final product is a stunning example of Muvek’s craftsmanship.
The R 18 has been transformed into a sleek and powerful cruiser that is sure to turn heads. It is a testament to Muvek’s talent and passion for custom motorcycles. The classic cruiser’s rear end has undergone a complete transformation. A bespoke luggage rack now supports the new and stylish fender, and twin LED taillights and a custom license plate holder have been added to enhance its modern appeal.
To further enhance its retro aesthetic, the stock saddle has been replaced with a suspended Denfeld saddle, a classic feature from BMW’s R models of the sixties. The electronics have been relocated to a custom-built box on the left side, while the stock side covers have been retained to preserve the original look. The front end has also received a makeover.
A custom-built fender is held in place by sleek stainless-steel hardware, and the front wheels now sport aftermarket hoops with vintage-style tires. While the forks may appear unchanged, they have been internally rebuilt and lowered to achieve the desired stance. These modifications create a truly unique and visually striking cruiser that seamlessly blends modern elements with classic charm.
The effect of these modifications is a cruiser that is both visually appealing and functionally enhanced. The new fender and luggage rack provides additional storage space, while the LED taillights and custom license plate holder improve visibility and safety. The suspended Denfeld saddle offers a comfortable and stylish riding experience, and the custom-built electronics box adds a touch of sophistication.
The front end modifications enhance the cruiser’s handling and appearance. These modifications have transformed the classic cruiser into a truly unique and visually striking machine. The combination of modern elements and classic design creates a timeless and appealing aesthetic. The cruiser’s enhanced functionality and performance make it a joy to ride.
The R 18’s rear suspension and braking system remained untouched, drawing inspiration from R variants of the 1960s. Pakozdi’s custom brackets accommodated a new headlight, featuring a single round dial as the only instrumentation. A low-profile handlebar with aftermarket grips, fresh control levers, and underslung bar-end mirrors replaced the original cockpit setup. New foot pegs further tailored the ergonomics to Tibor’s preferences.
While the massive boxer-twin engine didn’t require performance upgrades, its appearance was enhanced with vintage-style valve covers and an exposed intake manifold. A custom exhaust system replaced the OEM’s unattractive fishtail mufflers, featuring chromed tips and powder-coated headers.
The finishing touch was a stylish color scheme inspired by the BMWs used by the Belgian Royal Guard. The off-white paint on the frame, fork covers, and bodywork components complemented the black pinstriping on the fenders, fuel tank, and electronics box, creating a stunning and classic aesthetic.
