If you’ve spent any time around BMW GS owners, you’ve probably heard the dilemma some riders have when choosing between the simplicity and character of the air-cooled classics or the reliability and performance of modern machines. It’s not that today’s liquid-cooled GS bikes are lacking — they’re phenomenal — but there’s a subset of riders who’d rather have that ’80s Dakar aesthetic without dealing with outdated brakes and suspension. WalzWerk, the German custom shop with 35 years of building over 1,200 bikes, decided to do something about this with the X-Plorer.
A Proper Foundation
For the X-Plorer, WalzWerk chose the R100GS (1987-1996) as their donor platform. It’s the last of BMW’s air-cooled GS lineup and the most developed version of that formula, featuring the refined Paralever suspension that made the bike far more capable than its predecessors. But the company had the idea to completely rebuild every X-Plorer from the ground up. We’re talking full engine overhauls with new cylinders and pistons, transmission rebuilds, upgraded Sachs clutches, and a ceramic-coated exhaust that bumps output from 60 to 70hp.
Rally vs. Raid
The X-Plorer comes in two configurations that cater to different riding styles. The Rally version sports a compact cockpit fairing for riders who want that stripped-down enduro aesthetic. Meanwhile, the Raid spec keeps the larger windscreen, crash bars, and that iconic 26-liter fuel tank for long-haul adventures. Both versions share WalzWerk’s custom subframe — 80mm longer and 20mm wider than their Schizzo design — topped with a gel-core two-piece seat that can quickly swap between passenger seat and luggage storage.
Where WalzWerk Gets Smart
The suspension setup comes from longtime collaborator Touratech, with upgraded fork cartridges offering 200mm of travel up front and a custom rear shock providing 180mm out back. The fenders are bespoke Acerbis pieces manufactured specifically for this build. Twin front disc brakes required extensive modification (the left fork leg isn’t designed for a caliper) but the effort pays off in stopping power. At around 414lbs wet, the X-Plorer sheds over 20% weight compared to stock while maintaining that classic Dakar-inspired profile.
The cockpit reflects WalzWerk’s attention to detail, featuring a Daytona speedo with integrated tach, thoughtfully labeled buttons, and a Quad Lock mount with wireless charging.
Built Your Way
WalzWerk understands that off-the-shelf customs need room for personalization. Beyond choosing paint schemes and frame colors at no extra cost, there’s a healthy options list that ranges from practical to performance-focused. The hard-case or soft-bag luggage systems integrate cleanly with the bike’s protection bars. If you want more power, the 1,070cc engine upgrade pushes output to around 80hp.
The Black Pack coats the entire drivetrain in thermal black for a stealthier look, while the Jekill & Hyde exhaust system gives you adjustable sound levels depending on your mood or local noise ordinances. You can also spec an 18-inch rear wheel with a four-piston disc brake setup (replacing the stock drum), additional fog lights, or heritage BMW Motorsport paint schemes that nod to the brand’s racing DNA.
Spec Sheet
Model: WalzWerk X-Plorer (Rally/Raid)
Engine: 1,000cc air-cooled boxer twin
Power: 67hp (80hp with 1,070cc upgrade)
Weight: 414.5 lbs wet
Suspension Travel: 200mm front / 180mm rear
Pricing & Availability
Starting at roughly $33,700 for the Rally and $35,000 for the Raid, the X-Plorer is more than a new R 1300 GS Adventure. But WalzWerk’s 2026 build slots are already full, with orders now being taken for 2027 delivery.
Recap
WalzWerk BMW GS X-Plorer
WalzWerk’s X-Plorer takes the BMW R100GS from the late ’80s and early ’90s and rebuilds it from the ground up with modern suspension, brakes, and a full engine overhaul, giving you that classic Dakar look without the compromises of vintage hardware.
