You don’t have to go back long in the custom bike scene to a time when almost every workshop operated in the exact same way – styles may have been different – but the process was fairly similar. The growth of the industry has changed all of that, and there is now everything from incredible craftsman working out of their backyard garage, to multi-million dollar operations with loads of staff on the books. At France’s FCR Original, they’ve found their own formula for success, offering eleven particular custom motorcycles using bikes from three manufacturers, and their ‘Classic Heritage’ is definitely one of our favourites. The guys start with a new BMW R nineT as the base and then infuse it with a vintage essence, and this example sports a very nostalgic German hue.
Of the eleven custom bikes available in the FCR Original range, six are based on products from Triumph, four from BMW and one on the hugely popular Royal Enfield Interceptor. Of the Bavarian-based options, you choose from either a nineT or an R18 and then select the style you desire. Each build starts with either a brand new or recently released example and to complement this stunning range of custom bikes, the team also make all of the parts they produce for these builds available to the public in their online store. In addition, they also make a host of parts for Moto Guzzi and Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and it’s proving to be a great business model.
But back to the Bavarian beauty that is the R nineT and no matter which variant you choose from the line-up, you get a hell of a motorcycle straight from the factory. For the purpose of the ‘Classic Heritage’ range, the guys at FCR start with either the standard or ‘Pure’ model. But if there is a criticism to be made of any bike from the nineT range, it’s the fuel tank, and the guys seek to address this immediately. “As with every preparation in the range, the original tank has been replaced by a more retro model, with references to BMW Motorrad icons.”
Not only is the change more aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but the guys find that the ergonomics are far superior, with the shorter and narrower tank allowing riders of all sizes to fit more comfortably and also get their weight over the front end when opting for a more spirited ride. Adding to the classic appeal, the colour selection is a vital aspect of the range and this machine has been given a true gem. Known as Nürburg Green, BMW paint code 077, the hue pays tribute to the Nürburgring racetrack, famously nicknamed “The Green Hell” by Formula 1 legend Sir Jackie Stewart.
To really allow the new tank to take centre stage and with the airbox room now reduced, the team made a number of small, but key changes. “Our workshop, anxious to perfect every detail, worked on simplifying and clarifying the machine. The airbox has been removed to make way for K&N filters, making the bike visually lighter and offering better air circulation. In line with this, the imposing number-plate bracket has been moved to the rear of the bike, contributing to its streamlined aesthetic.” That bracket, mounted inline with the rear axle, is one of many parts from the build available in their online store.
Making the most of the modular nineT chassis design, the rear subframe is removed and an FCR Original unit is neatly bolted into place. Finished in a frame matching black, the shorter and more slender piece looks like it could almost be a factory item. Over the top, a beautifully upholstered seat, with black leather sides, and a tuck and roll top only further enhances the clean and classic lines. Now the black-out work really begins and the guys absolutely go to town, with the hubs and rims given a hit of the hue, before being wrapped up in quality Michelin tyres.
They don’t stop there, however, with the effort taken to remove the front suspension and coat both the triple clamps and the fork legs. Then things get serious, with the headlight bucket and the front fender both finished in a stunning gloss black, with a white pinstripe to beautifully match the one applied to the fuel tank.
It really is all of the little details that make this such a brilliant machine, and the rider can feel right at home hanging onto the custom black handlebars, which sport Brembo master cylinders, Highsider mirrors and bar end turn signals. A mini Bates three-in-one taillight combo finishes out the lighting package, and the rider and passenger pegs are swapped out too.
To complete the build, the engine comes in for just the right amount of customisation to make it fun, without destroying your new bike warranty. The main mechanical change is the full FCR Original exhaust system, which maintains the minimalist vibe and is finished in a ceramic coat for improved gas flow. The valve covers are the company’s own V2 items, and along with the rest of the engine are painted in a slightly textured matte black. An FCR battery cover keeps things tidy at the rear of the engine and the oil cooler is grilled out to finish the job.
The end package is a beautifully customised modern classic, with a German-inspired aesthetic and all of the perks of owning a brand-new BMW.
[ FCR Original ]