Incorporating the Essence of the 80s: The Mobula, a Tailored BMW K75 by 72 HKG Performance

Combining robust aesthetics with an unmistakable 80s flair was the guiding vision presented to Spain's 72 HKG Performance by the proprietors of a bespoke BMW K75. Originally belonging to their father, the motorcycle had languished in the garage for several years. With the aspiration of both resurrecting and personalizing it, the idea of customization emerged, a challenge that 72 HKG Performance eagerly embraced.

A dynamic collaboration between established Spanish custom artisans, Antonio (72 Cycles Performance) and Jorge (Hell's Kitchen Garage), 72 HKG Performance has, in their relatively brief partnership, already achieved remarkable feats.

The distinctive hallmark of their craftsmanship, characterized by a blend of muscularity and 80s aesthetics, perfectly aligned with the BMW K75 project. "Finding clients who possess a clear vision of their desires, especially when those visions resonate with our own, is truly gratifying," share Antonio and Jorge. "We all concurred in bestowing the K75 with a renewed lease on life!"

The concept rapidly evolved towards a radical front-end overhaul, featuring updated components, a solo seat, an impressive 180-wide rear tire, and a mono-shock suspension. The design had to strike a balance: visually imposing yet compact and grounded, all while retaining the signature touch of elegance with a hint of rebelliousness that defines 72 HKG's style.

Revamping the classic K75's mechanicals involved sourcing and repurposing a range of components. In a creative blend, Kawasaki ZX-10R upside-down forks and twin Tokico brakes were integrated from a different breed, while alloy wheels borrowed from a BMW R1100 elevated the visual and functional aspect.

At the rear, Antonio and Jorge executed a technique employed in a prior BMW K75 custom project. By ingeniously combining the driveshaft of a BMW R850 with custom fabrication, they successfully transplanted the R1100's single-sided swingarm. "Having successfully executed this approach before, we were confident in its effectiveness, leading us to replicate it," they elaborate.

The R1100 also contributed its rear brake and shock to the K75. The only requisite was relocating the upper shock mount to accommodate the R-series setup. In response, a new subframe was designed, although with one notable stipulation: "In Spain, modifying the central triangle of the BMW K is subject to legal restrictions. Hence, we consistently seek inventive strategies to bypass homologation issues. This time, we crafted a tubular subframe that ingeniously intersects the original structure, ensuring a seamless visual flow from front to rear."

This innovative tactic resulted in one of the most impeccably integrated subframes observed in a K75 café racer. The front end features custom-made side panels that seamlessly blend into the OEM fuel tank, establishing a visual foundation that extends to the tail section. At the rear, a new seat complements a meticulously handcrafted bum stop, subtly echoing the geometric aesthetics of 80s sportbikes.

Employing a blend of fiberglass and carbon fiber, 72 HKG shaped the tail bump and front fender, producing a harmonious fusion of materials. The bike's sizeable belly pan, which drew inspiration from its distinctive frontal appearance, led to the affectionate moniker 'Mobula,' referencing a type of ray. This motif extended to the BMW's 3D-printed 'aero' winglets.

Motogadget electronics found favor with Antonio and Jorge, resulting in a reconfigured K75 centered around the company's mo.unit blue control box, equipped with Bluetooth capability and wireless RFID ignition. A Motogadget speedometer discreetly resides behind a streamlined windshield. The cockpit also embraces new clip-ons, grips, controls, and switches, alongside custom-crafted rear-set foot controls.

The path ahead is illuminated by an LED headlight, complemented by a slender LED taillight strip seamlessly embedded in the tail section. A bracket on the swingarm accommodates the license plate and rear turn signals, masterfully concealing the associated wiring.

Among the consistent triumphs of 72 HKG's endeavors is their adeptness in livery selection. The BMW K75 under consideration upholds this tradition, its foundation cloaked in Mini's 'Rooftop Grey Metallic,' adorned with sporty pistachio accents mirrored in the contrast stitching of the seat. The combination, though unconventional, exudes a tasteful charm.

The project concludes with a robust three-into-one exhaust system culminating in an upturned muffler, amplifying the K75's nostalgic sportbike vibe.

Beyond its enhanced aesthetics, the mid-80s K75 underwent a substantial weight reduction, now tipping the scales at 204 kilograms [450 lbs], with an extended wheelbase by two inches. Antonio and Jorge joyfully attest to its improved road manners and heightened stability, making it not just a performer but also a head-turner wherever it journeys.

Credit: bikeexif

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72 HKG Performance | Images by Eduardo Recuero