Photo: AJ Moller Photography via Ellaspede
Ellaspede is a shop that needs no introduction to seasoned custom bike enthusiasts, because their incredible work has garnered worldwide attention over the years. A firm operating at this level is guaranteed to have repeat customers on a frequent basis, and Douglas knew a second project would eventually be commissioned after seeing what these Aussies could pull off on the first.
We’ve featured that initial motorcycle – a scrambled 1984 BMW R65 – on autoevolution some time ago, but it is now time for us to look at the second gem built for Douglas. The donor was once again an R65 from Motorrad’s lineup, but it came in the form of an older 1981 model this time around. With the classic airhead placed on their workbench and completely dismantled, the Ellaspede squad dug straight in.
For starters, an aftermarket fuel tank was sourced and then modified to suit the bike’s framework, while its rear-end geometry has also been altered considerably. In order to achieve the new proportions, the Aussies installed a custom subframe and had the swingarm lengthened ever so slightly. Atop the looped subframe is a gorgeous two-up saddle, which was made by a local collaborator using high-density foam and burgundy leather.
The original stock absorbers were swapped with progressive aftermarket alternatives, and the rear end is finished off with a handmade fender. Atop this module is a retro-looking taillight, joined by a compact license plate bracket further back. You will spot a second one-off fender at the front, along with a 5.75-inch headlamp and LED turn signals. Moreover, there’s a small Daytona dial neatly recessed into the headlight housing up top.
In the cockpit, Ellaspede fitted a wide low-profile handlebar sporting Motogadget switches, Grimeca control levers, and underslung rear-view mirrors. As you might expect from a motorcycle that’s been around for more than four decades, the BMW R65’s engine was in dire need of some TLC. It was therefore sent to MMM’s Boxerworks for a complete overhaul, which saw its capacity increased to 850cc.
A modern Wedgetail ignition setup has also been added, and the Bing carburetors were thoroughly refurbished for good measure. The boxer-twin powerhouse was pieced back together with youthful seals and gaskets, subsequently gaining some bespoke exhaust pipework. Ellaspede kept the factory headers, but had them mated to reverse megaphone mufflers via stainless-steel connector pipes.
Following the addition of Dunlop TT100 tires, it came time for the Australian bike-modding gurus to address the machine’s paintwork. Naturally, the burgundy hue made its way onto the fuel tank, too, surrounded by white pinstripes and a glossy black base. Items like the frame, wheels, and fenders have also been finished in black, as were the valve covers, fork lowers, and double-sided swingarm.
For starters, an aftermarket fuel tank was sourced and then modified to suit the bike’s framework, while its rear-end geometry has also been altered considerably. In order to achieve the new proportions, the Aussies installed a custom subframe and had the swingarm lengthened ever so slightly. Atop the looped subframe is a gorgeous two-up saddle, which was made by a local collaborator using high-density foam and burgundy leather.
The original stock absorbers were swapped with progressive aftermarket alternatives, and the rear end is finished off with a handmade fender. Atop this module is a retro-looking taillight, joined by a compact license plate bracket further back. You will spot a second one-off fender at the front, along with a 5.75-inch headlamp and LED turn signals. Moreover, there’s a small Daytona dial neatly recessed into the headlight housing up top.
In the cockpit, Ellaspede fitted a wide low-profile handlebar sporting Motogadget switches, Grimeca control levers, and underslung rear-view mirrors. As you might expect from a motorcycle that’s been around for more than four decades, the BMW R65’s engine was in dire need of some TLC. It was therefore sent to MMM’s Boxerworks for a complete overhaul, which saw its capacity increased to 850cc.
A modern Wedgetail ignition setup has also been added, and the Bing carburetors were thoroughly refurbished for good measure. The boxer-twin powerhouse was pieced back together with youthful seals and gaskets, subsequently gaining some bespoke exhaust pipework. Ellaspede kept the factory headers, but had them mated to reverse megaphone mufflers via stainless-steel connector pipes.
Following the addition of Dunlop TT100 tires, it came time for the Australian bike-modding gurus to address the machine’s paintwork. Naturally, the burgundy hue made its way onto the fuel tank, too, surrounded by white pinstripes and a glossy black base. Items like the frame, wheels, and fenders have also been finished in black, as were the valve covers, fork lowers, and double-sided swingarm.
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