The “Champ” Project: BMW R100 by Boxr Moto

Some BMW R100 builds are about restoration. Others are about completely reimagining the platform.

The “Champ” Project by Boxr Moto takes a different approach, combining classic BMW Airhead character with modern performance, carefully selected materials, and a minimalist custom design.

Based on a 1980–1984 BMW R100, the build features a 1070cc engine upgrade, Race Fork Package, Öhlins rear shocks, titanium intake and exhaust components, carbon-fiber clip-ons, modern electronics, and a beautifully detailed custom body.

For MessnerMoto, the build is particularly interesting because Boxr Moto selected MessnerMoto components for the speedometer/headlight setup and hydraulic clutch and brake controls.

A BMW R100 Built With Purpose

The Champ Project isn’t about adding parts simply for the sake of modification. Each component contributes to a clear overall direction.

The build includes:

• 1980–1984 BMW R100 Bi-Lever
• Siebenrock 1070cc big-bore kit
• Race Fork Package
• Öhlins piggyback rear shocks
• Carbon-fiber clip-on handlebars
• Titanium cold-air intake
• Custom titanium exhaust headers
• Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde electronic exhaust
• SmartCarb and Boxr Moto carburetors
• Motogadget electronics
• MessnerMoto speedometer/headlight kit
• MessnerMoto hydraulic clutch and brake levers
• Hand-engraved tank and fenders by Otto Carter
• Gloss-black Snowflake wheels
• 1970s-style “peanut” valve covers

The combination keeps the unmistakable character of the BMW R100 while giving the motorcycle a significantly more modern performance focus.

MessnerMoto Components on the Champ

The cockpit is one of the most important areas on a custom motorcycle. With carbon-fiber clip-ons and a compact front end, oversized controls would quickly disrupt the clean design.

Boxr Moto chose MessnerMoto’s speedometer/headlight kit and hydraulic clutch and brake controls to complement the minimalist cockpit.

The MessnerMoto approach focuses on compact dimensions, precision machining, adjustability, and a clean visual appearance—qualities that work particularly well on café racers and performance-oriented custom motorcycles.

Performance Meets Classic BMW Design

The Champ Project goes considerably beyond cosmetic customization.

The 1070cc engine upgrade provides a significant step away from the original R100 specification, while the titanium intake and custom exhaust continue the performance-focused theme.

At the chassis level, the Race Fork Package and Öhlins rear shocks give the classic BMW a much more purposeful suspension setup.

Carbon-fiber clip-ons complete the riding position and visually connect the front end with the rest of the motorcycle.

Yet despite all these upgrades, the motorcycle still unmistakably looks like an R100.

That balance is one of the strongest aspects of the build.

Details Make the Difference

The hand-engraved tank and fenders by Otto Carter give the Champ Project a distinctive identity, while the black Snowflake wheels and period-inspired valve covers maintain a connection to BMW’s Airhead heritage.

This combination of old and new is what makes the build particularly interesting.

Classic BMW design provides the foundation. Modern performance components improve the motorcycle. Carefully selected custom parts bring everything together.

Final Thoughts

The Boxr Moto Champ Project is an excellent example of how a BMW R100 can be transformed without losing the character that makes the Airhead platform so appealing.

From the 1070cc engine and upgraded suspension to the titanium components, custom bodywork, carbon clip-ons, and MessnerMoto cockpit components, the build demonstrates the importance of treating a custom motorcycle as one complete design.

For anyone planning a BMW R100 café racer, BMW Airhead custom build, or performance-oriented motorcycle, the Champ Project offers plenty of inspiration.

You don’t always need more parts. You need the right parts.