Bryan Fuller is no stranger to pushing the limits of motorcycle design, and his latest project with BMW's R18 is another example of his ability to blend vintage inspiration with modern performance. Known for his hands-on craftsmanship and attention to detail, Fuller’s work consistently bridges the gap between functional art and high-performance engineering. This latest project reimagines the bulky, cruiser-styled BMW R18 into a sleeker, classic-looking machine, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1937 BMW R5.
Fuller Moto’s BMW R18 build—dubbed "Dolly"—pays homage to the past while integrating modern advancements, creating a bike that captures the spirit of old-school motorcycling but is fully equipped for the road today. The build wasn’t just a cosmetic makeover; it involved deep, technical modifications that resulted in a complete transformation of the bike's performance and aesthetics. This wasn’t just a trim and tune job—it was an extensive overhaul, stripping the R18 of unnecessary weight and electronics while implementing vintage design elements.
Fuller Moto’s work on the BMW R18 involved both old-school techniques and modern technology. Drawing inspiration from the R5’s clean lines and minimalist design, Fuller set out to rework the R18 into a sleek, visually striking machine while keeping the power and reliability of modern technology intact.
One of the most impressive aspects of the build is the ignition system, which was inspired by Nigel’s chopper. Fuller worked closely with the new owners of Morris Magneto to incorporate a vintage-style ignition, something rarely seen on modern motorcycles. This retro-inspired system gave the R18 a mechanical feel that closely mimics older machines, but with the reliability of modern components.
Alongside the ignition work, Fuller also added state-of-the-art Smart Carbs, which contribute to smoother throttle response and better tuning flexibility. The custom-fabricated aluminum intakes connect everything together, further enhancing the vintage appearance while boosting the bike’s performance.
The wheels were another focal point of the build. Fuller upsized the wheels to 23 inches, a significant change that required extending the swingarm to accommodate the larger rims. Custom spokes and hubs, inspired by original BMW designs, completed the vintage look, while FOX shocks replaced the stock suspension, improving both the handling and ride comfort.
Perhaps one of the most noticeable design elements on the R18 build is the R53 fuel tank, which Fuller carefully refurbished and modified to fit the bike's new frame. The tank, much like the rest of the build, offers a subtle nod to the R5, but with a modern twist that aligns with the bike's updated performance capabilities. Original fender blanks were also repurposed, ensuring that the bike maintained its classic lines while still adhering to modern standards of functionality and durability.
The use of these vintage-inspired components, paired with a single-stage black paint job highlighted with silver leaf accents, gives the R18 a timeless look. It’s a build that could easily be mistaken for a decades-old classic at a glance, but closer inspection reveals a machine that’s as modern as they come.
Fuller Moto's R18 project also featured parts from Purpose Built Moto, enhancing the functionality while preserving the clean, minimal aesthetic of the build. The Omni LED lights provided a modern lighting solution that didn’t compromise the bike’s vintage look. Known for their sleek design and powerful output, the Omni lights were the perfect choice for this project, maintaining a low-profile appearance while offering bright, reliable illumination.
Additionally, Fuller integrated Purpose Built Moto’s Black Box, a compact and versatile control unit that ties the bike’s electrical system together without adding unnecessary bulk. The Black Box enabled Fuller to simplify the wiring, further reducing weight while ensuring that all of the bike’s modern electrical components function seamlessly. This integration of Purpose Built Moto’s components allowed Fuller to maintain the R18’s clean lines while delivering top-notch functionality.
The result of Fuller’s work is nothing short of spectacular. The bike, unveiled at the Buffalo Chip exhibition during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, was met with widespread acclaim. Nicknamed "Dolly," the R18 now embodies the best of both worlds: the timeless, elegant design of BMW’s past and the cutting-edge performance of today’s motorcycles. It’s a bike that stands as a testament to what’s possible when craftsmanship, creativity, and cutting-edge components come together.
Bryan Fuller’s BMW R18 build is a masterclass in how to take a modern motorcycle and give it a vintage soul. By stripping away the unnecessary weight and modern electronics, Fuller revealed a bike that honors BMW’s history while offering the performance and reliability that today’s riders expect. With the help of Purpose Built Moto components like the Omni LED lights and the Black Box, Fuller was able to simplify and enhance the bike’s functionality without compromising on design. For anyone interested in seeing how Purpose Built Moto parts can transform a bike, check out our Omni Lights and Black Box for your next build.
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