In the world of custom motorcycles, getting it right with a barn find the first time around is hard enough. Getting it right with a barn find that was only in production for 2 years in the early 1950s? That’s nearly impossible. Luckily, this trusty old BMW R51/2 made it into the hands of Ramon Seilers of Kontrast Kreations at the behest of one very lucky owner.
From the very beginning, it was obvious that a complete overhaul of the bike was needed. So, a full restoration was in order – beginning with rebuilding the engine and gearbox with new seals and soldering/filling the broken case and missing fins. The cylinders also got a fresh coat of paint, and the bike now features a fuel tank sourced from an R51/3. Wheels were also replaced with new spokes and repainted a cool glossy black, a new seat pan and knee pads were fabricated and wrapped in brown leather to now match the pair of Brooks bicycle grips up front, and the original headlight with embedded speedo was left intact for old time’s sake. Finally, out the back is also a custom built license plate bracket and a Bates-style tail light complete with a 6V bulb. A handsome bobber no doubt, we for one are excited this antique ride was given a second chance at life.
