All-terrain BMW K 100 custom

Italian custom house, Gessi Motorcycles has unveiled its latest creation – an awesome all- terrain BMW K 100.

BMW K series machines have been customised for years – they’re widely available on the market, they’re generally priced quite low, and they are renowned for being reliable. That’s why Mauro Gessi picked it as the base for his ‘Straßenbauer’ multi-terrain funbike (pronounced Strassenbauer – which translates to road constructor). The bike draws inspiration from modern flat trackers, but is also inspired by motorcycles used in America for the Road Race and even the MotoGP.

The BMW K 100 has been dramatically overhauled by Gessi, who have transformed the Bavarian beast into a completely different machine. It’s undoubtedly well equipped though, featuring Kayaba front forks, a multi-adjustable Öhlins rear mono shock, Tokyco radial clamps and Brembo radial pumps. The engine has been completely rebuilt, slightly improving compression ratio – while the final transmission was replaced with the one from a BMW K 75, offering a shorter ratio (perfect for more off-road oriented riding). 

The frame has been adjusted by adding an inner sub-frame, to tighten the structure – and the rear swing arm has been reinforced with a prismatic box structure, for both effectiveness and appearance. The tank has been completely rebuilt too, this time made out of aluminium –  while the handcrafted exhaust includes a conical silencer with Moto GP inspired flame retardant grill. Carbon fibre has been used for the fairing, again, helping to shed weight. In order to withstand more impact and abrasion, the fuel cap and engine covers are made of carbon and kevlar. 

The front light comes from a KTM crosser, incorporating a lateral LED light, with two side spotlights,  while an enduro light is mounted under the mudguard on the rear – and the handlebar and risers come from the off-road world too. All the modifications have helped get the K 100 custom down to 176 kg (without fuel) shaving close to 60kg off the original 80s machine, which weighed in at 230 kg.

The graphics were designed by Pro Line of Imola – drawing inspiration from the colours and graphics of the gorgeous BMW CSL 3.0 racecar.  Ultimately, it’s a fantastic looking bike – and judging by the pictures, it’s great fun too ride too. Mauro, if you’re reading this – we’d love to have a go…