The original BMW R5 used telescopic forks—a radical move at the time—with aerodynamically shaped covers.
The Hommage uses modern custom-made forks, with a slight crease on the covers to echo the ribs on the engine breastplate and valve covers.
The bar-end brake and clutch levers are also custom-made, combining the look of traditional reversed levers with the adjustment options of modern controls.
Eighty years ago, the R5 had a power output of 26 hp. Impressive for the time, but obviously not going to cut it today. So a one-off supercharger has been plumbed into the restored motor.
At the other end, a stainless steel exhaust system releases the pressure—and provides an appropriate audio clue to the increase in power.
The rear suspension has been built from scratch, and there’s a modern piston brake system to help keep the rubber side down, hooked up to minimalist front and rear wheel hubs.
There could be only one color to finish this bike in—the classic BMW black, with white pinstripes.
But it’s been interpreted in contemporary style: the layers of paint give an opaque effect, with a ‘smoke’ finish on the fuel tank and rear fender that allows a glimpse of the steel underneath to show through.
Look even closer, and you’ll see a hint of metallic shine and a slight flake effect.
An embossed, hand-stitched leather seat looks like it has been lifted straight from the 1930s.
The aluminum engine and gearbox cases have been glass-bead blasted. The matt finish contrasts beautifully with the highly polished engine breastplate and valve covers, reminiscent of the R5 originals.
The BMW R5 Hommage is a tour-de-force of re-engineering and custom design. We never thought we’d see an ‘official’ custom to rival the Concept 90 R NineT, revealed at the Villa d’Este exactly three years ago. But BMW have once again pulled a rabbit out of their hats.
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