Bike of the Day: 1980 BMW R100 – Custom Cafe Racer

Custom café racer built on the iconic BMW R100 platform

Today’s feature is a striking custom café racer built on the iconic BMW R100 platform, reimagined by the renowned Spanish workshop Cafe Racer Dreams as part of its celebrated CRD series. Known as the CRD111, this bespoke machine blends classic BMW engineering with modern craftsmanship and minimalist styling.

At its core lies a naturally aspirated 980cc air-cooled flat-twin engine, fed by twin carburetors and paired with a manual transmission and shaft-drive system. The bike reportedly underwent a full strip-down and rebuild, including a comprehensive engine overhaul, updated electrics, and an extensive range of handcrafted components. Its odometer shows approximately 2,300 kilometers, believed to reflect mileage since the build’s completion.

Finished in understated satin grey, the CRD111 embodies café racer purity with a brown diamond-quilted kangaroo leather seat and a clean, purposeful stance. While it retains the original BMW frame, engine, and fuel tank, nearly every other element has been redesigned or upgraded. It rides on 18-inch satin-black cross-spoke wheels wrapped in Shinko tires, reinforcing its aggressive yet refined look.

Custom details define the build, from bespoke CRD bodywork and fenders to a handcrafted fuel cap and leather seat. The cockpit is outfitted with premium components, including a Renthal inverted handlebar, Motogadget instrumentation and controls, Biltwell grips, and sleek bar-end mirrors. Lighting is equally modernized, featuring a 190mm headlamp, Motogadget taillight, and Kellermann indicators.

Underneath, the chassis has been refreshed with a refurbished, anti-rust-treated subframe, TFX rear suspension, and retained original swingarm and forks. Braking combines CRD-modified front components with a classic rear drum setup. Powering the system is a lightweight lithium battery, ensuring reliability without compromising performance.

1980 BMW R100 – Custom Cafe Racer – Image Gallery

Source: Collecting Cars