We have regularly voiced our dismay at the awkward appearance of BMW’s unfortunate new R NineT café racer. It reminds us of the fable about a vain emperor who is duped by two weavers into believing that they would make him a suit of clothes which would appear invisible to stupid people. The weavers dress the emperor in the non-existent suit and he parades in front of his loyal followers but nobody mentions that the emperor is naked for fear of being called stupid. It takes a child in the crowd to cry out that the emperor is wearing no clothes before everyone else responds, thus embarrassing the vain emperor. BMW are not vain, but we are like the child shouting out that the R NineT is not a café racer, whilst the loyal BMW followers continue swooning over this motorcycle. Our featured BMW R75/6 is a proper café racer which oozes street cred.
The BMW R75/6 was manufactured between 1973 and 1976. Total production was around 17 500 motorcycles. The /6 models are notable as the first BMW model series to feature 5 speed gearboxes and a disc brake on the front wheel. The typical BMW boxer 745cc engine produces 50hp and a top end of around 180 km/h. As with most of BMWs motorcycle models the R75/6 is a bulletproof and capable motorcycle.
This stunner was built by V Custom Cycles of Centurion to the specification of its owner, Dr Lucas Mothapo. As we have come to expect from V Custom’s builds, the finishes are top class. Satin or matt black finishes are often used by builders to hide imperfections but not in this case. The satin black finish on the detagged frame and components is flawless. A new complete rear section was fabricated and bolted on. This rear section provides for a less upright shock mounting angle than the original, almost vertical mounting position.
A smaller tank off a R60/5 has been fitted which, together with the V Custom made short bumstop seat and shortened original front mudguard, create a light and sporty looking motorcycle. The lustrous blue paint work is by Rudi from Kicker Paintworx and Dion the leatherman upholstered the seat. The original head light is retained but a new ignition switch, new compact electronic speedo, clubman handlebars with bar-end mirrors and new handlebar switches modernise the front end. Aftermarket silencers replace the originals. The engine is standard but has been treated to some new carbs. The standard wheels have also been blacked out. The combination of satin black, dark blue paint work with just accents of aluminium really make this BMW aggressive, almost sinister looking. A winner!
We love featuring BMW customs for two main reasons. The first reason is that they metamorphosize so incredibly well from being relatively bland looking standard motorcycles into stunning custom motorcycles. The second reason is the marvelously positive response the BMW customs usually get on Retro Write Up. This beauty will score well with most of you. We will bet on it!
Great build. Mmmmm mabey I will steal some ideas for my BMW cafe build…currently under way.
Man alive… the attention to detail is amazing. Well done! Love the paint work and how clean this beauty is. I somehow struggle to get used to that rear café bump. I am not sure if it is too big or too round, maybe a rear mud guard coming out the back with a light would help. Otherwise flipppen dig it!!!
Can’t wait to see the positively inspired comments from our CROPE guys – most of who are busy with Boxer builds – after sharing this feature with them.