Two extraordinary custom bikes from the Bavarian Forest made their debut at the BMW Motorrad Days 2025: the R 12 and R 18 builds by [WOIDWERK].

Under the project name “The Speed Sisters,” Ralf Eggl – founder and creative force behind [WOIDWERK] – crafted two unique interpretations that captivated both motorcycle enthusiasts and custom scene insiders in Garmisch.

A strong duo with character – “The Speed Sisters” project.
The goal of the project was to portray the BMW Motorrad cruiser models R 12 and R 18 as a custom-built sibling pair – stylistically connected, but deliberately not identical: “Sisters, not twins,” as Roland Stocker, Project Manager Heritage BMW Motorrad, puts it. Execution was led by Ralf Eggl, the visionary behind [WOIDWERK], with BMW Motorrad providing the two Boxer base bikes: a BMW R 12 as a dynamic retro cruiser and a BMW R 18 as a bold, powerful statement bike. The result is a custom duo that not only highlights the technical and stylistic relationship between the two models but also gives each its own distinct identity.

BMW R 12 – the sporty, agile “little sister.”
[WOIDWERK]’s interpretation of the BMW R 12 emphasizes lightness, agility, and a modern design language. The rear section was heavily shortened in classic bobber style, giving it a clean, minimalist look, while the riding position was made sportier thanks to a new handlebar, modified foot pegs, and a custom leather-and-Alcantara seat.

A bespoke tank cover with Alcantara surface was CAD-designed and 3D-printed. Like on the R 18, it bears the project logo – a striking sign of the family connection. A chassis raised by 15 mm, featuring a Wilbers shock absorber, enables an actively engaged riding position. The sporty setup is further underscored by a deep-black exhaust system from Hattech with a special ceramic coating – understated in tone, yet always present.

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The taillight design features elegant Kellermann Jetstream sequential indicators styled like aircraft wings, seamlessly integrated into a tailor-made, filigree tail cowl. The paintwork, executed by Lackierzentrum Hirsch, reflects the distinct color concept of the “Speed Sisters.”

BMW R 18 – powerful, confident, and modern.
The big sister also received a comprehensive custom makeover. Raising and narrowing the tank by 30 mm, along with a floating, selfsupporting seat and handcrafted “Targa hoop”, made the bike’s silhouette noticeably more dynamic.

A 20 mm chassis lift, using a Wilbers shock absorber, enhances the R 18’s commanding presence. Media information Date 5 November 2024 Topic BMW Motorrad presents the BMW Concept F 450 GS. Page 3 BMW Motorrad Corporate Communications The overall look and feel were sharpened both technically and visually: The standard braking system was upgraded to a high-performance radial setup – featuring 320 mm brake discs and radial brake calipers from the BMW R 1300 GS. This not only enhanced the sportiness visually, but also significantly improved braking performance.

Many components – from fairing brackets to the taillight housing to the signature swingarm end cap with integrated license plate holder – were custom-designed, CNC-milled, or 3D-printed. The indicator and taillight mounts on the swingarm are also in-house developments, reflecting [WOIDWERK]’s attention to detail.

The black ceramic-coated exhaust system by Hattech delivers a throaty sound that perfectly complements the muscular lines. As with the R 12, the individually crafted seat in leather and Alcantara with visible hand-stitching was created by Zinteriors.

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Color concept: Inspired by the Bavarian Forest.
Both bikes share a distinctive color scheme symbolizing the seasons of the Bavarian Forest: ¾ white, ¼ green – a tongue-in-cheek reference to the region’s famously long winters. This color ratio is reflected in the paintwork, seat upholstery, and the green-tinted fairing screens – a creative detail that drew much attention in Garmisch. “These are the colors of the Bavarian Forest,” says Ralf Eggl. “As we say here: Three-quarters of the year is winter, and the other quarter is cold – that’s the Bavarian Forest.”

Excitement in Garmisch.
The unveiling of “The Speed Sisters” at the BMW Motorrad Days 2025 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen created a real buzz among the crowd. The fusion of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and technical finesse won widespread praise, quickly making the bikes crowd favorites. Roland Stocker, Project Manager Heritage BMW Motorrad: “When Ralf Eggl said, ‘The Bavarian Forest is our home, and BMW is our passion,’ we knew [WOIDWERK] was the perfect partner for this project. His style blends local craftsmanship with technical sophistication and gives the two cruisers a new, authentic expression.”

[WOIDWERK] – Craftsmanship from the Bavarian Forest.
For over a decade, [WOIDWERK] has stood for premium BMW-based custom builds – defined by precision craftsmanship, deep regional roots, and a distinct design language. With “The Speed Sisters,” Ralf Eggl once again proves his keen sense for form, function, and the brand DNA of BMW Motorrad.

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This project confirms once more: customizing a BMW is more than just a question of style – it’s a statement of attitude, creativity, and true passion for motorcycles.

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