BMW In the 1940s, in Germany, he developed and built the world’s first jet engine. That’s right, they were ahead, but they lost the war. Thank God, we had airplanes like the SpitfireIt is normal that these machines, over time, have become European amulets with a lot of meaning. And this is a clear example.
The connection between the Spitfire and BMW was indirectly strengthened in 2003, when BMW AG acquired the automotive division of Rolls-Royce. Incidentally, the British brand that developed the engine Marline that drove the Spitfire.
This is the BMW inspired by a Spitfire
Now, let’s move on to our protagonist. The credit for this extraordinary combination goes to VTR Customs, the creative arm of the Swiss dealership. BMW VTR Motorrad. They have created this BMW R 1200 R LCa customized version of the BMW R1200R from 2017, with a design inspired by the old planes that won in the air.
The design is evident when looking at the bike, with an aluminum fairing that immediately evokes airplanes according to VTR. The body is hand-made by the workshop, while the wheels and brakes are the originals. The LC’s electronics come from the R 1200 R standard, including shifting and traction control.
The seat is also handcrafted, as is the bodywork. The original handlebars are replaced by ABM Vario clip-ons, while the rear end has no shock absorber, as the original steel swingarm is bolted directly to the frame. The dashboard has been replaced by original instrumentation from a 1989 aircraft. RAFcomplemented by a custom hand-made tank and footrest.
Note, the most notable feature is the “type” exhaust.flamethrower“, which mimics radial aircraft engines. Engines that spit flames when started. It may not be the most comfortable bike of the year, but this custom gem is one of the most impressive we’ve seen.
