kingston custom handcrafts BMW R18 into art deco-inspired custom motorcycle

with a history of customizing their machines – just see their good ghost from 2020 – a BMW R18 motorcycle has been transformed into an art deco masterpiece by kingston custom. called the spirit of passion, the design is unmistakable in its unique style. it follows roland sands’ dragster concept as the second R18 gen in the soulfuel series – a collaboration between BMW motorrad and selected customizers.

all images courtesy of the BMW Group

at its premiere in early 2020, the BMW R18 revealed an extremely conversion-friendly architecture. it introduced a model with pronounced historical references that focused on the motorbike essential. it defined a big boxer for purists yet a powerful base for customizers. this is where the soulfuel series and kingston custom come in.

‘the BMW R18 is so perfect I left the technology as it is. the frame is 100% original and so sophisticated that nothing should be changed here,’ explains dirk oehlerking, founder and builder of kingston custom.

to shield the original wheel suspension and fuel tank, the BMW R18 by kingston custom is covered in swooping bodywork that is handmade. it seamlessly integrates the LED headlight and large, vertical kidney grille at the front into the fairing. dark paintwork with light pin-stripe lines coat the body from tip to rear wheel cover. the result is a highly sophisticated, art deco-inspired motorcycle.

the motorcycle’s new handlebars and mudguard are also handmade. these modifications sit alongside a retuned exhaust that now appears in a roadster style, kellermann turn indicators, and a saddle that references the original from the R18. the design is complete with a tiny, half moon windshield which rests atop the dramatic front face of the bike.

project info:

original manufacturer: BMW motorrad

original model: R18

custom maker: kingston custom

custom model: spirit of passion