This superb custom BMW R80, dubbed B-1, is VDB Moto’s first Bee Em build; a pretty neglected 1986 model that was discovered in pretty rough conditions and with many years of dirt on her.

In the design process, the builder wanted to maintain a mix of old and new, and decided to retain the distressed and rugged look of the engine to make a contrast with the new parts and paint. With low miles on the clock for a boxer engine and a strong compression, it was decided to refresh the engine where needed but leave the aged motor on the outside the way it was. The bike was stripped down and superfluous parts were eliminated, bringing down the weight. The fuel tank was painted with a Sixties pastel steel blue with a glossy finish and custom aluminium badges were added in place of the original BMW logo.

The rear subframe was entirely replaced with a redesigned shape and topped by a ribbed seat, while the suspension was upgraded with progressive springs at the front and adjustable mono at the rear. Powdercoated wheels are wrapped in Pirelli MT43 rubbers to retain a blend of on/off road capabilities. At the back, a steel fender was fitted and left to the weather to create a nice patina of rust, culminating in a bullet-style taillight and VDB Moto “pull out plate” holder.

Original BMW fork boots and ears were sourced to restore some of the classic look showcasing an updated 7″ headlight, with the handlebar area cleaned up to highlight the mini gauges lights mounted directly on the triple tree and the Smith speedo located to the right side of the forks. Every cable on the bike was wrapped to give a cleaner, texturized look.

The headers were wrapped and a pair of ceramic-coated shorty mufflers give the boxer engine a throatier sound. With the combination of the 4.00 tyres, higher shock and subframe, the bike sits now 2-3 inches taller, making for a very comfortable upright position. After these images were taken, the oil pan was replaced with a smaller unit. And that aluminium surf rack; it was fitted as VDB Moto is working on a project in collaboration with Folklore Surf, a surfboard company close to them in Brooklyn.