In a world where owning a BMW S1000RR is common, and a new model has already been released, how can one stand out with the older version? Nicola Giannattasio has found a unique solution by transforming his BMW S1000RR into a custom retro racer. This remarkable bike, named the Nurburg, pays homage to sportbikes of the 1980s, and its design draws inspiration from the renowned French custom house, Praëm. Giannattasio’s creation embodies the spirit of endurance races and features distinctive elements reminiscent of classic sportbikes.
Revamping the Fairings
The first major modification made to the Nurburg involved the fairings. Giannattasio replaced the original fairings of the German sportbike with a completely different set, carefully crafted and affixed to a custom-made subframe. The rear of the bike now boasts a square and muscular tail, perfectly capturing the style prevalent during that era.
Stylish Front End
The front end of the Nurburg is adorned with a rounded fairing and a round headlight positioned to the side. The illumination is provided by a halogen bulb, reminiscent of race bikes from the past, particularly those utilized by Suzuki. Additionally, a sleek cowl with mandatory position lights has been incorporated to ensure compliance with homologation requirements.
Captivating Side Profile
The Nurburg showcases half-fairings on its sides, allowing a glimpse of the engine, which has been enhanced with blue paint and red and white accents. Although the tank originates from a BMW accessory, it has been customized with bespoke side panels to seamlessly blend with the overall tail design. Notably, the saddle of the Nurburg features a thin layer of foam, mirroring the design of high-performance racing bikes. The finishing touches and various components of the bike are sourced from renowned Italian brands Rizoma and Barracuda, while the license plate holder originates from a Kawasaki Z1000.
Engine Enhancements
While the Nurburg’s engine required no internal modifications, Giannattasio transformed its external appearance to match the bike’s classic vibe. Specially designed and crafted aeronautical aluminum casings were employed to augment the engine’s aesthetic appeal while providing protection against potential impacts. Furthermore, Giannattasio fitted the Nurburg with a complete titanium Akrapovic exhaust system, enhancing both style and performance. To reduce the bike’s weight, a carbon radiator grille was installed, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall design.
Conclusion
Nicola Giannattasio’s Nurburg BMW S1000RR is a testament to his dedication and passion for creating a unique and exceptional motorcycle. Through meticulous modifications and careful attention to detail, Giannattasio transformed an older model into a custom retro racer reminiscent of the sportbikes that graced endurance races of the past. The Nurburg stands as a symbol of individuality and craftsmanship, showcasing the fusion of classic design elements with modern engineering.
