A strong character needs a strong name. The "Blechmann" is a name strong as metal. It is also the nickname of Bernhard Naumann, a renowned customizer from Austria. Together with BMW Motorrad, he presents his latest creation: the Blechmann R 18.

Photos: BMW Motorrad

The BMW R 18 is in the tradition of historic BMW motorcycles like no BMW motorcycle before. It borrows both technically and visually on famous models such as the BMW R 5 and puts the essentials of the motorcycle back in the spotlight. Reason enough for Bernhard Naumann to change as little as possible on the frame and the technology and to use only the original mounting points for the creation of the Blechmann R 18.

The Blechmann R 18 in detail.
Bernhard Naumann does not use sketches or drawings in advance. The tin man gets his inspiration when screwing himself. "I draw my design directly at the object with the final material. This allows me to respond directly to requirements and keep an eye on all proportions at all times," explains the designer.

For the Blechmann R 18, he "first lined up the Viech from behind" in order to be able to correctly estimate the proportions for the front panel. The sporty single-seater is based on the original support structure of the rear fender, seat and passenger. The rear light comes from Kellermann. The tank has been extensively adapted: on the one hand, it is narrower, which makes it more sporty and further exposes the engine. On the other hand, it was provided with knee-closing recesses, which further supports the athletic line. The original steering tube was used as a base for the sporty stub handlebar.

Next, Blechmann took on the individualization of the headlights. As with his last BMW Custom Bike "Giggerl", a conversion of the BMW R nineT, the headlights should be back in discreet kidney design. Blechmann, for example, prominently placed a filament lamp in the centre. The forward-inclined headlight underlines the basic layout of the Custom Bike. The personalization of the Blechmann R 18 was completed by a discreet, black paintwork and the BMW-typical white double-lined finish. In total, the team around Blechmann worked 450 hours on its version of the BMW R 18.

Definition Customizing.
Blechmann does not see his work as a classic "customizen". "My work begins by removing parts of the original version until a white canvas is left. As construction progresses, the design develops. I call it the 'Rapid Prototyping-Blechmann-Style'," says the Customizer. This is what makes his workshop unique.

In principle, Blechmann works alone on the design and craftsmanship. If necessary, it can be supported by hand-picked professionals. "You can't do anything in this world on your own, but I'm glad to have a reliable human infrastructure."

For more information about the R 18 Blechmann, please visit https://www.bmw-motorrad.at/de/R18-Blechmann.html