Dieter Rams says That good design “includes as few designs as possible.” Colin Chapman said “simplify, then add lightness.” Both principles are at work in this extreme BMW R nineT cafe racer, brought to you by Deus Ex Machina Australia.
It’s definitely not the first time cafe racer Deus’s head wrench, Jeremy Tagand, built. However, the short-term goal—to transform an original 2014 R nineT into a tweaked build with classic styling and modern technology—seems like a new challenge. The job required a complete rework of the BMW silhouette, plus some upgraded parts.
There is a possibility to swap tanks—but that’s no feat with BMW R nineT. It’s a modern motorcycle with a fuel pump and some working electronics, plus an OEM fuel tank that fits into its trellis frame like a glove. Jeremy had to find a sponsor who could complete the look while at the same time creating visual balance with the nineT’s spacious boxer engine.
In the end, Jeremy chose a 1980 Suzuki GS1100 for its muscular, angular style. Deus gave it to builder Jonathan Okada at the Kansai Giant Design Factory, to modify it accordingly. Jonathan massaged it to sit lower on the BMW frame and made room for the stock fuel pump, ABS module, and ECU.
Next, Deus built a new subframe to create a straight line from the bottom of the tank to the saddle. The finish matches the rear axle, which is neatly integrated with a custom saddle that also hides the remaining electronic bits of the nineT. Dave at Bad Ass Trim Co. handled the upholstery neatly on the spacious padded seat.
To keep the rear end clean, Deus moved the license plate to a swingarm mount from Wünderlich. The pair of Kellermann LEDs act as turn signals and taillights.
Switching to the nineT’s transmission, Deus disassembled the stock suspension, anodized the components, and sent everything to Shock Treatment for servicing. The 17-inch rims have been replaced with 18-inch rims, which Ash’s Spoked Wheelz attaches to the original axles. A full set of Beringer brakes have been installed for additional stopping power.
Jeremy’s relentless pursuit of minimalism is most evident from the rider’s point of view. The new BMW cockpit is as pure as possible, built around a CNC machined upper clamp from Ricci Engineering, and also houses a digital Motogadget tachometer. Adjustable ABM clip-ons carry Beringer controls, KTM RC8 throttles, Motogadget mirrors and turn signals at the end of the bar.
If you’re looking for switchgear, you’ll have to bend down to find it. Integrated into the lower part of the CNC machined grip on the clutch side is a set of small push buttons from Grip Ace. The car’s ignition key is now located just below the fuel tank on the left-hand side.
Other changes include classic 5.75-inch Bates-style headlights and a gorgeous flush-mounted gas cap. Deus also installed a Sato Racing rear swingarm and a small Honda oil cooler, mounted behind the lower yoke on a custom stand. It is connected via custom braided oil lines.
The engine is equipped with valve covers from Roland Sands Design and front belt covers from Rizoma. Both are modified with the sand-cast Deus badge.
With 109 horsepower in its original form, the BMW R nineT’s boxer engine is more than enough power for most racers. So Deus left it alone inside, opting instead for intake and exhaust.
The airbox was replaced with a third-stage filter from DNA, then RB Racing tuned the car through the Dynojet Power Commander unit. The twin tow pipes are fully custom items and even include hidden baffles to keep the neighbors happy.
Finally, Deus covered the tank and the front fender of the distilled tank with a coat of Nardo Gray paint. Subtle stripes, powder-coated components and the same color plates on the new engine cover tie everything together. With some subtle discolorations appearing on the exhaust tips, the overall atmosphere remains stylish.
In a sea of BMW cafe racers, this one stands out for its raw simplicity. Deus describes it as “a wink to the past, a nod to the present, and a hat full of smiles every hour.”
We will buy that.
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