Behind the Build
Discover the extraordinary 1978 BMW R80/7 custom motorcycle rebuild by Upcycle Motor Garage. This iconic bike, born from a standard R80/7, boasts a unique blend of vintage charm and avant-garde design. Powered by an 800cc boxer twin engine, it features customizations including a rigid frame, springer front end, and military-spec Firestone tractor tires.
With a minimalist Motogadget speedometer, brass fittings, and a 1.25-gallon fuel tank, it’s a true masterpiece. Available for purchase in Whitestone, Texas, this bike is a captivating fusion of heritage and innovation, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a one-of-a-kind ride.
BMW R80/7 custom rebuild
The 1978 BMW R80/7, which has undergone a comprehensive custom transformation by Upcycle Motor Garage in Austin, Texas, is a motorcycle of unique character. Here are some noteworthy aspects of this custom bike:
Model and Heritage: The BMW R80/7, introduced in 1977 as an upgraded iteration of the previous R 75/7 model, enjoyed production until 1983, with nearly 18,000 units manufactured.
Powerplant: This motorcycle is driven by an 800cc horizontally-opposed boxer twin engine, featuring pushrods, dual overhead valves per cylinder, and air-cooling. Its transmission comprises a 5-speed gearbox, and it employs a shaft drive to transmit power to the rear wheel.
Prominent Variant: Notably, the R80 G/S, which shares its fundamental engine, stands out as one of the earliest adventure bikes. It secured victory in the Paris-Dakar Rally three times during the early 1980s, cementing BMW’s position in the adventure motorcycle domain.
Custom Alterations: Johnny Nguyen of Upcycle Motor Garage undertook a comprehensive makeover of this R80/7. The customizations encompass a new rigid frame, a front suspension setup known as a springer front end, a solo saddle with springs, and distinctive military-spec Firestone tractor tires.
Distinctive Features: The motorcycle further showcases a 16” Harley-Davidson wheel at the front, a rear Excel rim that has been rebuilt, and a custom two-into-one exhaust system with a Werkes USA muffler. Remarkably, it retains its original Bing carburetors and the alloy BMW airbox.
Design Philosophy: Johnny Nguyen’s design inspiration for this bike emanated from the juxtaposition of the wide airhead engine and the elongated frame of a hard-tailed bobber, resulting in a visually striking and unconventional appearance.
Additional Details: Notable elements include a 1.25-gallon fuel tank, a distinctive triangular headlight mounted on a custom bracket, split handlebars equipped with Kustom Tech levers and ODI Vans x Cult grips, and a minimalist Motogadget speedometer. Johnny crafted custom brass bushings and fittings for this project.
Availability: The motorcycle is presently available for direct purchase from Johnny in Whitestone, Texas. It possesses a clean Texas title and is equipped with a center stand designed for showcasing or storing the bike.
Upcycle Motor Garage custom motorcycle
Key Analysis about the 1978 BMW R80/7 custom rebuild by Upcycle Motor Garage:
- Model and History:
- The motorcycle in question is a 1978 BMW R80/7.
- It was introduced in 1977 as an upgraded version of the R 75/7.
- Production continued until 1983, with nearly 18,000 units manufactured.
- Engine and Transmission:
- Powered by an 800cc horizontally-opposed boxer twin engine.
- Features pushrods, dual overhead valves per cylinder, and air-cooling.
- Equipped with a 5-speed gearbox.
- Utilizes a shaft drive system for power transmission to the rear wheel.
- Notable Variant:
- The R80 G/S is a renowned variant of the R80 series, known for pioneering adventure bike design.
- It achieved victory in the Paris-Dakar Rally three times during the early 1980s.
Heritage motorcycle restoration
- Custom Modifications:
- The motorcycle underwent a full custom rebuild by Johnny Nguyen of Upcycle Motor Garage.
- Customizations include a new rigid frame, springer front end, solo saddle with springs, and distinctive military-spec Firestone tractor tires.
- Unique Features:
- Notable components include a 16” Harley-Davidson front wheel, rebuilt rear Excel rim, and custom two-into-one exhaust with a Werkes USA muffler.
- Retains its original Bing carburetors and alloy BMW airbox.
- Design Philosophy:
- The design inspiration was drawn from the wide airhead engine and the long frame of a hard-tailed bobber.
- The result is a visually striking and unconventional appearance.
- Additional Details:
- Features a 1.25-gallon fuel tank, triangular headlight, split handlebars, minimalist Motogadget speedometer, and custom brass fittings.
- Ignition switch and Antigravity Lithium-ion battery housed in a custom aluminum box.
- Equipped with a front disc brake and original BMW rear drum.
- Availability:
- The motorcycle is available for sale directly by Johnny in Whitestone, Texas.
- Comes with a clean Texas title and a center stand for display or storage.
This key analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the 1978 BMW R80/7 custom rebuild by Upcycle Motor Garage, covering its model, history, engine specifications, custom modifications, unique features, design philosophy, and availability for purchase.
1978 R80/7 custom modifications
This custom BMW R80/7 represents a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Johnny Nguyen and Upcycle Motor Garage. Its unique design is bound to captivate the attention of motorcycle enthusiasts. If you are interested in acquiring this motorcycle, you can contact Johnny directly for additional information.
Avant-garde motorcycle design
Ready to own this distinctive masterpiece? Contact Johnny Nguyen of Upcycle Motor Garage in Whitestone, Texas, and make this unique 1978 BMW R80/7 custom motorcycle yours today. Don’t miss your chance to ride in style with this extraordinary blend of vintage and avant-garde design. Contact Johnny now and experience the thrill of owning a one-of-a-kind bike.
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