Alright, now we’ve got a truly special machine to talk about. This is “Tsurugi,” a custom BMW R100/7, a ten-year anniversary build by Motor Force, and let me tell you, she caused quite a stir at The Bike Shed Show in London.
Mikio Yamada, the man behind this metal marvel, poured countless hours into transforming a humble R100/7 donor from 2022 into this singular creation.
This BMW R100/7 Custom Is a Gorgeous Machine
The “Tsurugi” stands out, not just because it’s a custom, but because of the sheer thought poured into its very bones. The frame is smoothed to perfection, and up front, you’ve got this magnificent Earles Fork, a British design that BMW once embraced.
Her look, though, is a fusion, pulling inspiration from classic BMW lines and the sharp discipline of Japanese Kendo. That front grille, for instance, it’s got the spirit of a Kendo mask and BMW’s own kidney grille. The fuel tank, while based on the original, boasts sculpted sides and those perfect knee dents, while the tail tapers off into a classic Cafe Racer hump.
The finish? A custom metallic brown with a hint of rose gold, complemented by a timeless leather seat. Even the engine bay received its due, with Dell’Orto carbs singing the song and hand-built mufflers providing the deep voice. It’s the kind of machine where every detail, every curve, every finish, speaks volumes about the craftsmanship.
This “Tsurugi” is a rolling masterpiece of engineering and style, a true testament to the builder’s art. Check out a full, longer write-up and see more images at Pipeburn.
Source: Pipeburn, Motor Force
Photos: Craig Stuart
