5 Minutes
Introduction: A New Chapter in Custom BMW Cruisers
The BMW R 12 and R 18 are icons in the cruiser motorcycle world, known for their blend of German engineering, performance, and timeless style. However, at this year’s BMW Motorrad Days in Garmisch, Germany, Woidwerk—a specialist custom motorcycle shop—unveiled a pair of truly unique machines: The Speed Sisters. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Bavarian Forest in winter, these bespoke builds showcase how artistry and engineering can come together to create rides that are both functional and visually stunning.
About Woidwerk: Masters of Customization
Woidwerk has developed a strong reputation across Europe for their expertise in transforming BMW motorcycles, particularly the R 12 and R 18 cruiser platforms. Over the last decade, they’ve delivered some of the continent’s most striking custom motorbikes, and The Speed Sisters project is a shining example of their innovative approach to motorcycle customization.
The Speed Sisters: Design Philosophy and Concept
Woidwerk labeled these motorcycles as a "custom-built sibling pair—stylistically connected, but deliberately not identical." Although both cruisers retain elements of their original structure, the modifications distinguish each bike with unique personalities that still reflect a shared heritage.
Bavarian Forest Inspiration
The design motif for The Speed Sisters draws inspiration from the Bavarian Forest, particularly its appearance in winter. A distinct color palette of one-quarter green to three-quarters white captures the region’s snowy landscapes and verdant evergreen trees. This careful ratio appears in the motorcycles’ paint schemes, seat upholstery, and windscreen treatments, imbuing both bikes with a coherent yet differentiated look.
BMW R 12 Speed Sister: Retro Bobber with Modern Touches
The "little sister" of the pair is based on the BMW R 12 and embodies a retro-modern cruiser ethos. While it retains the original 1,170cc boxer engine, its silhouette has been transformed. The rear section is shortened, giving the bike an unmistakable bobber profile, while new handlebars, revised foot pegs, and a luxurious seat wrapped in leather and Alcantara redefine the ergonomics for a more relaxed yet engaging ride.
A 15mm chassis lift enhances ground clearance, and a Wilbers rear shock absorber contributes to improved ride stability. Performance upgrades are subtle, with the black ceramic-coated Hattech exhaust system being the main enhancement. The addition of Kellermann Jetstream sequential indicators—inspired by aircraft wings—adds a futuristic accent that perfectly complements the hand-crafted tail cowl and unique paint job. A CAD-designed, 3D-printed Alcantara tank cover finishes the build, marrying tactile luxury with modern technology.
BMW R 18 Speed Sister: A Powerful Statement Bike
The larger "big sister" takes the formidable BMW R 18 cruiser as its foundation, but Woidwerk set out to make a bolder, more aggressive statement. While it shares the same winter-inspired color scheme and bespoke project logo, this R 18 features significant modifications. The fuel tank has been raised and narrowed by 30mm, crowned by a premium floating seat in leather and Alcantara with prominent hand stitching.
A 20mm chassis lift gives the R 18 a more commanding road presence. Performance-wise, the braking system receives a major upgrade: the custom bike now features a radial setup with 320mm discs and BMW R 1300 GS calipers. Many components—including the fairing brackets, taillight housing, swingarm, and license plate bracket—were either CNC-milled or 3D-printed for maximum precision and bespoke fitment.
Of course, the Hattech black ceramic-coated exhaust system rounds out the performance and aesthetic touches for a unified, high-end finish across both motorcycles.
Craftsmanship and Automotive Technology
Both Speed Sisters showcase an expert blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary manufacturing techniques. The strategic use of 3D printing, CNC milling, custom upholstery, and advanced paintwork elevates these projects far above typical custom builds. Every detail, from the Alcantara surfaces to the aircraft-inspired lighting, ensures that the Speed Sisters stand out as true collector’s pieces.
Market Position and Pricing Insights
While BMW and Woidwerk have yet to announce the future plans or availability of the Speed Sisters, the core R 12 and R 18 models remain available to global buyers. In the United States, the 2026 BMW R 12 starts at $13,145, while the larger R 18 is priced from $15,395 for the 2025 model year. Pricing for the bespoke builds by Woidwerk has not been disclosed, underscoring their exclusivity.
Comparison and Unique Appeal
In comparison to other custom motorcycles on the market, the Speed Sisters stand out for their cohesive design language and engineering excellence. While most custom shops focus on either aesthetic appeal or performance alone, Woidwerk has managed to seamlessly blend both in these two builds. The intentional differences between the siblings—be it in chassis adjustments, seating arrangements, or mechanical enhancements—highlight the shop’s attention to detail and deep understanding of the BMW cruiser ethos.
Conclusion: The Art and Performance of Custom BMW Cruisers
The Speed Sisters by Woidwerk exemplify what’s possible when creative vision, deep technical knowledge, and respect for heritage come together. With these Bavarian Forest-inspired R 12 and R 18 custom cruisers, the legacy of BMW Motorrad is both honored and reimagined for modern motorcyclists seeking exclusivity, performance, and one-of-a-kind design. These builds not only turn heads but also set new benchmarks in the world of custom motorcycle culture.
Source: autoevolution
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