In Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Dirk Oehlerking, a skilled craftsman at Kingston Custom, specializes in crafting unique BMW boxers from a converted steel forge with a century-old history. As BMW Motorrad celebrates its remarkable 100-year milestone in motorcycle manufacturing, they turned to Oehlerking to contribute his expertise by creating a custom R 18 that pays homage to this momentous occasion. The outcome is none other than The Crown, a truly distinctive interpretation inspired by the streamlined speed bikes of the prewar era. While the overall shape captures the essence of the era, the most remarkable aspect of The Crown lies in its front suspension. Oehlerking ingeniously designed a custom front swingarm, departing from the conventional telescoping fork commonly seen on BMW motorcycles throughout the years. The bodywork of this exceptional machine is meticulously hand-formed using aluminum sheets, featuring elegantly fitting slash-cut exhausts. Its captivating appearance is adorned with a champagne and mother-of-pearl livery, complemented by exquisite gold accents and brass fasteners. Despite the numerous modifications, The Crown’s dimensions are merely two inches longer than a stock R 18, while impressively shedding a remarkable 88 pounds of weight. This masterpiece of engineering is currently showcased at the prestigious BMW Motorrad Days in Berlin, inviting enthusiasts and admirers to marvel at its magnificence.