Dirk Oehlerking’s Kingston Custom customizing forge never fails to deliver a remarkable outcome, as evidenced by his dedication to the BMW R 18. Recently, he made waves in the customizing scene with his awe-inspiring creation, the R 18 Spirit of Passion, which exudes a sleek and streamlined aesthetic.
However, Oehlerking’s latest masterpiece, the R 18 The Crown, takes his craftsmanship to a whole new level. According to Oehlerking himself, it represents the pinnacle of his creations thus far. For the past three decades, he has wholeheartedly pursued his passion for crafting unique and unconventional motorcycles in the Ruhr region.
This area, known for its industrial culture and close ties to industry and crafts, provides Oehlerking with an ideal environment to thrive. With an extensive network and access to stunning photo backdrops, both for his motorcycles and himself, Oehlerking continues to push the boundaries of motorcycle customization.
Employing his signature technique, Oehlerking utilized hard foam and cardboard to sculpt the form, lines, and overall design of the motorcycle. His vision was to achieve a commanding, sophisticated, and swift appearance, while incorporating an innovative touch.
The intricacies of the design necessitated significant technological adaptations. Notably, a completely novel front wheel suspension was crafted in the form of a double-sided swinging arm with a central suspension strut. The 8-liter fuel tank and body parts were meticulously handcrafted from 2 mm thick aluminum sheet metal, which was skillfully cut, bent, and manipulated.
While the engine and rear suspension remained unchanged from the original model, the two stainless steel exhaust manifolds were entirely handcrafted. Numerous standard components, including the headlight, instrument panel, switch units, and footrest system, seamlessly integrated into the awe-inspiring concept of the R 18 The Crown.
The clutch and handbrake fittings from Magura, the rear mudguard and brackets from Wunderkind, and the saddle made from 2 mm thick aluminum sheet metal, adorned with genuine leather, all harmoniously complemented the overall design. As a final touch of elegance, Oehlerking bestowed the R 18 The Crown with a Champagne Platinum paint finish, embellished with mother-of-pearl accents, and adorned the BMW brand emblem with a small crown.