We did it again, but this time just a little bit better. In this blog we cover the Projekt K2, a BMW K100 cafe racer where we focused on a minimalistic design but with a bold design that makes an impact.
After the success of Projekt K1 featuring in the bespoke Built magazine, Design Bloom Blog, Bike Shed Show London and the impression it made in the BMW custom motorcycle scene, we decided it was time for another build.
However we didn't want to recreate a build we had previously completed so with that in mind the team starting researching, looking at ways we could improve the design.
Phase 1: Rolling chassis
A short trip to the city of Hereford to pickup a perfect donor BMW K100. Low mileage and in good running order, it felt like the perfect fit.
The first phase was a complete tear down, stripping everything that wasn't needed, keeping only the BMW K100's essential components.
We then borrowed a set of race forks to get the bike to sit right and with custom yokes ready to take a Motogadget display. We fabricated the frame to hold the bespoke horizontal YSS suspension system. Before adapting the wheels to take double R6 calipers and NG discs and created a custom air intake and exhaust manifold.
Phase 2: Engine and transmission rebuild
We fully stripped, deep cleaned and removed all the worn components to replace them with fresh ones. This simple box engine was a pleasure to work on and now had a whole new lease of life.
The shaft drive was just serviced due to the low mileage of the donor bike and the K100 engine was topped off with stunning Mikuni rebuilt carbs!
Phase 3: Electrics plus a new front end
We refurbished the Yamaha R6 front forks and callipers, onto freshly powder coated original K100 wheel with a gharly set of rubber. Race clip-ons finished with full Motogadget controls and Blaze indicators, with custom made Yokes to hold the Mini Motogadget speedo. Controlled by the Motogadget M-Unit and powered by Dynotec coils and a lithium battery.
Phase 4: Custom Paint Job
We decided to painted the bike in a unique deep blue with a not so traditional double racing stripe for Projekt K2. A colour and signature stripe that was designed to promote the quality and beauty of this BMW cafe racer, but at the same time not over power the overall appearance.
The most challenging part was not creating the custom paint but continuing the race stripes exactly inline throughout the rear cowl and matching the finishing touch with a custom diamond style leather seat.
Phase 5: The Final Touch
With the custom seat now finished, we went on to Cerakoting the rear spring and custom number plate carrier. Fitting the bespoke custom exhaust system, air filters, rear sets, and Cognitomoto headlamp to bring the the project together. We filled all the liquids and lubricants and prepared the bike for ignition, the most exciting part.
Projekt K2, our second BMW cafe racer fired up on the button. The best we have built to date. Each phase of this build was a pleasure as well as continuous learnings for our team. An easy build to create but a hard one to perfect. We hope you love it as much as we do.
SHOP SPITFIRE SPEED SHOP