LA speed shop turns the BMW Motorrad R nineT racer on its head

when it comes to choppers and bobbers, customizer chris richardson — the mastermind behind LA speed shop — is one of the most capable and recognized in the US. for the latest ‘soulfuel’ bike, richardson has created the ‘los angel flyer’ — a revamped BMW R nineT racer inspired by the californian club style. beginning with a blank canvas, richardson dismantled the bike before rebuilding it from scratch, a systematic approach he applies to every project.

presented by the house of machines, a motorcycle and apparel shop, drinkery, eatery, and live music venue, the ‘los angel flyer’ is inspired by the californian club style — an aesthetic that includes higher handlebars, fairings, and raised footrests. as richardson is known for creating slim and streamlined bikes, he lengthened the lower part of the tank to better fit the frame line.

elsewhere, richardson has given the rear of the motorcycle a unique accent by installing the fender of a harley davidson — the strut for which he built himself. the customizer also uses parts from other BMW motorrad bikes, namely the front fork of an urban G/S to add more length, as well as its 19-inch front wheel. the addition of a higher headlamp also significantly changes the whole look. self-made fiberglass fairing parts underline the new appearance of the club style bike, as does the seat shell from JP custom seats.

‘this project means a lot to me, because it forced me to step out of my comfort zone,’ richardson explains. ‘I usually do traditional customizing for harleys, so I’m very grateful to have been given the opportunity to rebuild a BMW motorcycle. ‘as a customizer, I have the unique chance to create my own interpretation of the R nineT racer. and the conversion has given me a new perspective on other motorcycle manufacturers.’

project info:

original bike: BMW motorrad R nineT racer
customization: chris richardson/LA speed shop
presented by: the house of machines