VINTAGE BMW BY CRD

For its latest build, Cafe Racer Dreams has taken a break from Triumph Bonnevilles. The Spanish workshop has turned its attention to the vintage BMW R-series—namely, the 749 cc R75/5 boxer. Now owned by Valéry from Paris, this 1971 model is a thorough resto-mod in the increasingly popular scrambler style. And it looks simply gorgeous.

CRD rebuilt “#14″ from the ground up with the help of local BMW specialists MaxBOXER. They created a new rear frame, a matching custom seat and lightweight fenders. The sump is protected by a custom-made guard that will brush off obstacles while offroading. The suspension has been upgraded with new fork internals at the front and Hagon Nitro shocks at the back. And a set of Continental’s highly-rated TKC 80 Twinduro Dual Sport tires have been fitted, which should enhance the R75’s offroad prowess considerably. Renthal ‘Street Fighter’ bars and Tarozzi pegs improve the riding position.

The overhauled motor retains its stock internals—and the oft-maligned 32 mm Bing CV carbs. But it now has K&N filtration, and a custom exhaust system designed by CRD and built by new local brand GR. With several kilos trimmed from the stock 210 kg (463 lb) curb weight, the R75/5 should have enough power for Paris’ twisty backstreets and long boulevards. And even in the style-obsessed French capital, the beautifully judged two-tone color scheme will turn heads when parked.