You’re certain to face opposition calling one thing the primary of its type, however the consensus is that the BMW R80G/S invented the large-displacement dual-sport scene—a section that thrives right this moment. The R80 and its successor the R100GS mixed the most effective of BMW’s road-going options with elevated suspension journey and the brand new ‘monolever’ swingarm in a type that excelled on any terrain, setting the stage for lots of of 1000’s of dual-sport BMWs since. For all their timeless rugged allure, you wouldn’t name both bike fashionable in a conventional sense, prompting a novel problem for the craftsman at Stile Italiano.
Nestled within the province of Pordenone, Stile Italiano began in 1996 as a enterprise between bike nuts with a standard ardour for classic bikes, racing and craftsmanship. All manners of classics and customs have rolled by means of their doorways, and this 1991 BMW R100GS is amongst their most formidable creations. Melding distinctive streamlined model with the off-road prowess that defines the G/S, ‘Crossover’ is a dual-sport BMW like no different.
As with each good airhead, the long-lasting 1,000 cc boxer engine stays the centerpiece of this construct. The unique camshaft, transmission, clutch, and drive system have been retained, guaranteeing the bike retained its genuine character. Nonetheless, the gas system has been up to date with Mikuni 40 mm carburetors with compact velocity stacks, bettering throttle response and general engine efficiency. Stile Italiano then crafted a whole exhaust system for the bike with the headers exiting right into a fabricated muffler from VireX.
Stile Italiano’s consideration to element extends to each nook of the bike, however the elephant within the room is definitely the handmade monocoque physique. Crafted particularly for this construct, the alloy bodywork mimics the chunkiness of the BMW’s unique gas tank, however works in a set fairing and styled solo saddle. The form flows seamlessly from finish to finish, interrupted solely by purposeful particulars just like the frenched-in motogagdget chronoclassic gauge, billet gas cap and built-in rear LED lighting.
With its aesthetic remodeled, Stile Italiano invested closely within the R100’s suspension to retain its rugged character. The inventory telescoping fork was ditched and changed with an inverted Öhlins FG424 43 mm fork and billet triple clamps from the Triumph Bonneville Scrambler. Out again, the unique monolever swingarm was used however introduced into the fashionable period with the addition of an Öhlins BM836 shock absorber. Match with a 21/17-inch wheel combo, the BMW is paying homage to the early R80 off-roaders, however with trendy Pirelli Scorpion rubber and spoke lacing.
Whereas its dramatic bodywork is a major diversion from inventory, Stile Italiano labored in purposeful particulars all through the bike that reminds us it’s meant to be ridden. A pair of slim bobbed fenders have been mounted to maintain particles at bay and a full Brembo radial brake bundle was used up entrance. Digital ignition, LED lighting, motogadget switchgear and a brand new Tommaselli throttle exchange the BMW’s outdated elements and polished foot controls are adjustable for rider choice. If the going will get tough, a lined Hella off-road mild is there to information your path and a slim skidplate protects the airhead’s underside.
As with all good customized outfit, Stile Italiano is on to the following construct, and it’s time for the Crossover BMW R100GS to seek out its perpetually residence. With solely 200 kilometers since its rebuild, this bike is basically model new, providing a uncommon alternative to personal a traditional BMW restomod—obtainable now by means of the Bike EXIF Classifieds.
Should you’re on the lookout for a bike that mixes the most effective of each worlds—heritage and trendy efficiency—then look no additional than the Stile Italiano R100GS. It’s not only a bike; it’s an expertise.
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