Golden Masterpiece- In the ever-evolving world of custom motorcycles, creativity often walks hand-in-hand with tradition. For decades, Harley-Davidson has dominated the chopper scene, setting the tone for what a custom bike should look and feel like. But every now and then, something radically different roars into view — something that redefines expectations and breaks the mold. That something is the BMS Nehme-sis.
Rather than following the usual American V-twin template, the Nehme-sis begins its life as a Yamaha Road Star, a bold departure that immediately sets it apart. In the U.S., this makes it a "metric" chopper — a rare breed in a space so heavily influenced by American brands. But make no mistake, this bike is anything but ordinary. Built in 2006, the Nehme-sis was the brainchild of Sam Nehme, the man behind Florida’s Broward Motorsports and its custom wing, BMS Choppers. Sam didn’t just build a bike — he created a rolling piece of mechanical art.
From the moment it debuted, the Nehme-sis turned heads. It became the first metric chopper ever to win the coveted Rats Hole Custom Bike Show at Biketoberfest, a competition with over three decades of history. And this wasn’t just a one-off achievement. Its impact resonated worldwide, especially after its stunning appearance at the CRC Speedshow in Auckland, New Zealand in 2013, where local enthusiasts were left speechless by its beauty and engineering.
The visual appeal of Nehme-sis is undeniable. It's the world’s first motorcycle to be entirely plated in 24-karat gold. Measuring an impressive 3.5 meters in length, the chopper offers a singular red velvet-covered seat, sculpted to provide comfort without compromising on elegance. Only a few traces of the original Yamaha remain — the 1,700cc engine, engine mounts, and part of the frame neck that retains the VIN. Everything else was painstakingly handcrafted from scratch.
And when we say handcrafted, we mean it. Labor costs alone for building Nehme-sis hit a staggering $250,000 — not including the gold plating, custom parts, or paint. The engineering behind its radical form is just as impressive as its golden surface. Take the one-sided front “fork,” for instance. Milled from a solid billet of aluminum and extending over a meter, it's a fully functional piece of precision machinery. Pair that with an air-ride suspension system that allows the entire bike to lift by 25 centimeters or lower flat onto the ground, and you’ve got a ride that doesn’t even need a kickstand.
Nehme-sis's red-velvet saddle which designed so perfectly that make its rider felt comfortable and more classy on it. (Picture from: MotorcycleSpecs.co.za)
The rear of the bike is no less spectacular. A massive 360mm tire, sourced from Vee Rubber, is hugged by a seamlessly integrated LED lighting system in the fender’s edge. A single-sided swingarm continues the minimalist, futuristic feel, while also housing its part of the air suspension. What’s equally clever is the electronic grip shifter — instead of a traditional gear lever, the rider shifts gears by rotating the left handgrip, which can also toggle the suspension system. Combined with an automatic clutch, it makes for an ultra-clean design free of unnecessary cables and levers.
But what truly sets the Nehme-sis apart isn’t just its looks or tech — it’s the soul that went into building it.Sam Nehme and his team didn’t just aim for innovation; they pushed for something timeless. A bike like this doesn’t come around often. It’s a fusion of luxury, performance, and imagination, elevated into something that feels more like sculpture than machine.
Nearly two decades after its creation, the Nehme-sis still stands as a benchmark for what’s possible when boundaries are ignored and vision leads the way. Whether it’s seen gliding across the tarmac or sitting still under show lights, this golden beast continues to mesmerize and inspire — a true one-of-a-kind masterpiece in the world of custom choppers.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA [02092013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMS CHOPPERS | ULTIMATEMOTORCYCLING | MOTORCYCLESPECS.CO.ZA | SPORTKU.COM]
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Tilting Innovation - The world of unconventional vehicles has always been a breeding ground for creativity and engineering brilliance. Among the most fascinating innovations is the Tracer MK III, a unique three-wheeled machine that blends motorcycle agility with automotive aerodynamics. Designed and built by Australian architect Mike Richardson, this steampunk-inspired trike is not just a visual spectacle but also a remarkable feat of engineering.
The Tracer MK III is the final evolution of the three-wheeled vehicle designed and developed by Australian architect Mike Richardson between the 1990s and 2000s. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Richardson’s journey into tilting vehicles began in the late 1990s when he started experimenting with three-wheeled designs featuring a leaning-tilting suspension. His first creation, the MK I, debuted in 1997 as a single-seat vehicle with an aluminum chassis and bodywork.
The Tracer MK III was initially designed as a two-seater, but the prototype was built with only a single seat.(Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Powered by a 736cc air-cooled DOHC engine from a Honda CB750, it was an ambitious step toward developing a new class of vehicles. The MK II followed soon after, further refining the concept with improvements in structure and balance.
The sole Tracer MK III prototype was, in fact, built as a single-seat vehicle with an aluminum chassis and bodywork.(Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
The most advanced version, the Tracer MK III, was originally intended as a two-seater, but the prototype that was built only accommodated a single seat. Unlike its predecessors, this model pushed the boundaries of tilting trike engineering. It retained a rear-mounted Honda engine, delivering a balance of power and efficiency.
The Tracer MK III's
striking aluminum body, inspired by classic aviation aesthetics, gave
it a unique retro-futuristic appeal, gaining recognition beyond the
automotive world.(Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Its striking aluminum body, inspired by classic aviation aesthetics, gave it a unique retro-futuristic appeal, gaining recognition beyond the automotive world. The design even attracted the interest of academics at Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia, who studied its innovative tilting mechanism.
The sole Tracer MK III prototype is powered by a rear-mounted 736cc air-cooled DOHC Honda engine.(Picture from: Jalopnik on X)
Despite its impressive engineering, it remains unclear whether Richardson's work led to a commercial enterprise or if his technology was ever licensed for production. However, his creations, particularly the Tracer MK III, stand as a testament to experimental engineering and the pursuit of unconventional mobility solutions. | yO5V9kr_ES0 | WEFyfzzmKzM |
This remarkable vehicle continues to spark curiosity among automotive enthusiasts and engineers alike. Whether viewed as a steampunk dream machine or a serious attempt at redefining three-wheeled transport, the Tracer MK III remains a unique chapter in the world of experimental vehicles.
Eco Fury - When people picture futuristic motorcycles, they often imagine something that hovers, glows blue, and maybe makes spaceship sounds. But back in the real world, Kawasaki took a huge leap toward that vision—minus the hover feature (for now)—with the launch of their hydrogen-powered marvel, the Ninja H2 HySE.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 HySE prototype made its debut on December 12, 2023, during the Akashi brand’s Group Vision 2030 conference.(Picture from: OtomotifKompas)
Vintage Perfection - Scooters have a unique way of capturing the charm of a bygone era. With their sleek curves and iconic designs, they bring a nostalgic allure that many enthusiasts treasure. When discussing classic scooters, names like Vespa and Lambretta often come to mind due to their prominence in the mid-20th century. However, tucked away in the annals of scooter history is an underrated gem that once rivaled these legends: the Heinkel Tourist 103A-1. Often referred to as "The Rolls-Royce of Scooters," this vintage marvel has a fascinating story, rooted in the ingenuity of its German manufacturer, Heinkel Flugzeugwerke.
The Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 was produced during 1953 and 1965 by Heinkel Flugzeugwerke, a company originally renowned for its aviation expertise. (Picture from: Motorplus-Online)
The Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 was crafted by Heinkel Flugzeugwerke, a company originally renowned for its aviation expertise. During World War II, Heinkel was a prominent player in aircraft manufacturing, producing fighter planes that were integral to Germany's aerial operations. But as the war ended and the landscape of German industry shifted, Heinkel turned its attention to consumer goods. In an era of economic recovery, there was a burgeoning demand for reliable and practical vehicles, and Heinkel sought to fill that niche by transitioning to two-wheelers. Thus, the Heinkel Tourist line was born, with the 103A-1 model emerging as a standout example of the brand's craftsmanship.
The
Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 epitomized luxury and durability, earning its
'Rolls-Royce of Scooters' title for its unmatched comfort, stability,
and quality.. (Picture from: Motorplus-Online)
Produced between 1953 and 1965, the Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 was a scooter designed to embody luxury and durability. It earned its nickname as "The Rolls-Royce of Scooters" due to its superior comfort, stability, and overall quality compared to competitors like Vespa and Lambretta. At a time when scooters were largely seen as affordable and practical city vehicles, the Heinkel Tourist stood out as a high-end alternative. Its robust build and elegant design reflected a commitment to excellence that set it apart, even if it came at a higher price.
The Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 was equipped with a sturdy casting handlebar that neatly housed a centrally mounted speedometer for clear visibility.(Picture from: BringATrailer)
Underneath its stylish exterior, the Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 housed a 175cc single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. This configuration not only delivered a smooth and reliable performance but also ensured a quiet ride, an aspect that appealed to those seeking sophistication. Its large frame provided enhanced stability, making it a preferred choice for longer journeys or rougher terrains. These attributes combined to make the Tourist 103A-1 a highly sought-after model during its production years.
The Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 features compact-sized luggage under the seat, along with access to the engine and fuel tank.(Picture from: Motorplus-Online)
Fast forward to recent times, and the Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 continues to capture the hearts of vintage scooter enthusiasts. One particularly striking example of this scooter surfaced when a dedicated collector discovered a 1960 model in poor condition in 2019. Determined to restore its former glory, the owner embarked on a meticulous restoration project, which culminated in April 2021. Every detail, from the scooter’s bodywork to its mechanical components, was brought back to life with precision and care.
The Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 is powered by a 175cc single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
The restoration process included repainting the scooter in its original Oslo Blue color, a shade that perfectly complements its timeless design. Accessories such as luggage racks and spare tires were reinstalled, staying true to the scooter's authentic aesthetic. Original spare parts, including the speedometer, lighting units, shock absorbers, and brakes, were sourced to ensure the restoration was as faithful as possible. Even the engine was refurbished and fitted with new components, making it as reliable and powerful as it was decades ago.
The Heinkel Tourist 103A-1's manual serves as a valuable guide for owners to properly maintain the scooter.(Picture from: Motorplus-Online)
One of the most remarkable aspects of this restored Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 is its pristine condition, right down to the original owner's manual, which remains intact. This attention to detail highlights the dedication of the owner and the enduring appeal of the scooter. The restored model was eventually put up for auction on Bring a Trailer in July 2021, where it garnered significant interest from collectors worldwide. By July 27, 2021, it had sold at $6,000, a testament to the enduring value of this rare and unique vehicle.
This restored Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 currently residing in Beverly, Massachusetts, exemplifies the timeless charm and craftsmanship of vintage scooters. (Picture from: Motorplus-Online)
Currently residing in Beverly, Massachusetts, this restored Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 stands as a shining example of what makes vintage scooters so special. Beyond its historical significance and elegant design, it represents the spirit of innovation and resilience that defined post-war manufacturing. As enthusiasts eagerly follow its journey, one can't help but wonder how high its value will climb and who will ultimately become its next caretaker.
Scooters like the Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 are more than just vehicles; they are pieces of history that remind us of a time when design and engineering were driven by passion and purpose. For those lucky enough to own one, they are not just collectors’ items but symbols of an era that continues to inspire. Whether displayed as a showpiece or ridden for its exceptional comfort and stability, the Heinkel Tourist 103A-1 remains a timeless treasure that celebrates the artistry of classic scooters.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRINGATRAILER ]
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Rare ONES - In an era where personal mobility was undergoing a transformation, the 1950s and 1960s gave rise to a wave of classic scooters that defined urban transport for a generation. While Italian brands like Vespa and Lambretta became household names, there were also bold innovations coming from British—one of which came from a lesser-known but remarkably distinctive manufacturer: DKR. Known for their eye-catching, somewhat quirky front-end designs and solid engineering, DKR scooters carved out a unique place in British motoring history.
DKR line-up (Capella, Defiant, Dove, Manx and Pegasus scooter models) on display at the 2017 Vintage Motor Scooter Club’s Annual Extravaganza held in Coventry, West Midlands, England. (Picture from: ScooterLab.uk)
DKR scooters were manufactured in Wolverhampton, England, between 1957 and 1966, during a time when demand for economical and stylish two-wheelers was booming. The company behind them, DKR Ltd., was established by Barry Day and Noah Robinson—then directors at Willenhall Motor Radiator Co.—alongside industrialist Cyril Kieft, who had previously made a name for himself in the world of racing car production. DKR was based at Pendeford Airport, an unusual but practical location for a budding automotive manufacturer of the time. Before we go any further, have you ever wondered what DKR stands for? It represents the initials of its founders: Barry Day, Cyril Kieft, and Noah Robinson.
The first scooter made by DKR Ltd. in 1957 is DKR Dove featured with a Villers 30C 147cc, 6.3hp engine coupled with the 3-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: TurboPost.co.uk)
At a glance, scooters made in the UK have a noticeably different appearance compared to those from countries like Italy, France, or Germany. While many scooters of the era embraced sleek, continental styling, DKR models stood out with their large, rounded front ends—earning them the nickname "big nose" among enthusiasts. This unusual design, most prominent in early models like the Dove, Defiant, and Manx, gave them immediate visual identity. Though not everyone appreciated the look, it represented a bold and distinctive approach that captured the essence of British design spirit at the time.
This
is DKR Pegasus featured with a 148cc single-cylinder Villiers engine coupled with a Siba Dynastart electric starter, which ensures first-time starts, a four-speed gearbox and a Villiers carburetor.
(Picture from: Pinterest)
The DKR Dove, introduced in July 1957, was the company’s first offering. It came with a 147cc Villiers 30C engine delivering 6.3 horsepower and included a cooling fan and a three-speed manual transmission. While it wasn’t the lightest scooter around, it struck a balance between retro charm and practical power. The following year, DKR released two additional models—the Pegasus and the Defiant—both built on the same chassis and body as the Dove, but equipped with different engines. The Pegasus used a 148cc Villiers engine, while the Defiant packed a punchier 197cc version, both with electric starters and a four-speed gearbox. They promised smooth starts and decent performance, capable of reaching up to 60 mph while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency.
This is DKR Defiant featured with a 197cc single-cylinder air-cooled Villiers engine coupled with a Siba Dynastart electric starter, which ensures first-time starts, a four-speed gearbox and a Villiers carburetor. (Picture from: Pinterest)
In 1959, the DKR Manx entered the scene. This model featured a twin-cylinder 249cc two-stroke Villiers engine and retained the signature DKR body styling. It served as the brand’s response to a growing market for higher-displacement scooters and gave a bit more edge to the lineup.
This is DKR Manx featured with a 249cc two-cylinders air-cooled Villiers engine coupled with a Siba Dynastart electric starter, which ensures first-time starts, a four-speed gearbox and a Villiers carburetor. (Picture from: Pinterest)
By 1960, DKR introduced improved versions of their previous models—the Dove II and Pegasus II—each now featuring the newer 174cc 2L engine. While the mechanical improvements were welcome, the visual design remained largely unchanged, and by this point, some critics began to view the styling as outdated in a market increasingly focused on modern lines and refined finishes.
This
is DKR Capella started in the 1960 and featured with a 148cc single-cylinder Villiers engine which had revamped styling and bodywork.
(Picture from: Classic-Bikes-Motorcycles)
It wasn’t until the introduction of the Capella range in the 1960s that DKR truly broke away from its earlier design conventions. The Capella models embraced a cleaner, more contemporary look, moving away from the heavy front-end style. These scooters came in several versions: the Capella Mk 1 with a 148cc Villiers 31C engine, the Standard version with a 174cc 2L engine, and the De Luxe variant featuring a 197cc 9E engine with an electric starter. This new generation offered a broader appeal and more refined styling, along with accessible price points starting around £152.
Despite the design overhaul and a product lineup that catered to both casual riders and performance enthusiasts, DKR struggled to keep pace with the intense competition from more established European brands. After nearly a decade of production, the company shut its doors in 1966, closing the chapter on a unique British scooter legacy.
Looking back today, DKR scooters stand as a symbol of British creativity during a golden age of two-wheeled travel. Their bold styling choices, reliable Villiers engines, and confident presence on the road still capture the imagination of vintage scooter fans around the world. Whether remembered for their unmistakable “nose” or their late-game elegance in the Capella, DKR scooters remain a fascinating reminder of a time when personality and practicality could ride side by side.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA [23012021] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PARKAAVENUE | GRACESGUIDE | CYBERMOTORCYCLE | SCUDERIAVESPASVEDESE | GRACEGUIDE.CO.UK ] Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Chrome Echoes - As mentioned in the first part of this article, we now continue exploring a range of rare Italian scooter brands—beyond Vespa and Lambretta—that once added flair and variety to the global scooter scene.
In 1950s Rome, two couples cruise together on scooters through the city’s streets. (Picture from: AKG-Images)
Scooter Relics - Italy, often affectionately dubbed "The Spaghetti Country," is not only renowned for its cuisine but also as the birthplace of some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic scooters. After World War II, the two-wheeled vehicle market in Italy flourished, giving rise to numerous scooter manufacturers. Among the most prominent were Piaggio, with its legendary Vespa, and Innocenti, the maker of Lambretta.
The scooters atmosphere in Rome around the 1950s in William Klein's camera shots. (Picture from: RTVE.es)
Mechanical Madness - When talking about motorcycles that blur the line between art, engineering, and insanity, it's impossible not to bring up creations that push every known limit of design and performance. In a world where customization often leans into subtlety and refinement, some builders choose instead to throw caution to the wind—and fuel on the fire. That’s exactly what French customizer Ludovic Lazareth did when he unveiled a machine that looked more like a concept from a dystopian sci-fi film than a street-legal motorcycle. Welcome to the world of the Lazareth LM 847, a vehicle that still turns heads nearly a decade after its jaw-dropping debut in 2016.
The Lazareth LM 847, created by Ludovic Lazareth, made its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Autoblog)
Built around the heart of a Maserati Quattroporte, the LM 847 is a monument to mechanical audacity. Lazareth didn't just borrow the spirit of a sports car—he transplanted its very soul. At the center of this beast roars a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine, a 32-valve powerhouse capable of unleashing 470 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 620 Nm of torque at 4,750 rpm. Originally designed for a luxury sedan, this massive engine now sits exposed, right beneath the rider, in a layout that defies conventional logic and aesthetics. It’s raw, it’s aggressive, and it doesn’t pretend to be anything less than outrageous.
Front view of Lazareth LM 847.(Picture from: Motorcycle)
With a build that stretches 2.6 meters in length and tips the scale at around 400 kg, the LM 847 is no lightweight. But despite its heft, it doesn’t sacrifice performance. Instead of opting for a traditional multi-gear transmission, Lazareth chose a single-speed gearbox paired with a hydraulic clutch, simplifying the drivetrain and focusing all that monstrous power through a chain to the twin rear wheels. Yes—twin. Because if one tire wasn’t enough to keep this machine grounded, two certainly make a bold statement.
Left side view of Lazareth LM 847. (Picture from: Autoblog)
From an engineering standpoint, the use of dual wheels both front and rear isn’t just for show. Stability and balance are essential when dealing with this level of power and weight. The front end features massive 420 mm Brembo discs with eight-piston Nissin calipers, while the rear relies on a 255 mm disc setup with four-piston Brembos. Suspension is handled by TFX at the back, ensuring the LM 847 can tame even the most uneven roads—should anyone be brave enough to ride it that far.
Lazareth LM 847 packs a Maserati V8 into a leaning quad frame. (Picture from: Motorcycle)
What truly sets the LM 847 apart isn’t just the numbers or its bold appearance, but the philosophy behind it. Ludovic Lazareth isn’t new to the world of wild builds. The French designer has built a reputation on his ability to merge automotive components with two-wheeled platforms in ways most wouldn’t dare. From flying motorcycles to military-inspired concepts, his workshop is a laboratory of bold experimentation. But the LM 847 was something else entirely. Revealed at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, the bike quickly became a centerpiece—not just because of its specs, but because of its sheer presence.
Rear side view of Lazareth LM847. (Picture from: Autoblog)
And while questions remain about its roadworthiness, production plans, or even its test results, that was never really the point. The LM 847 wasn’t created to dominate racetracks or fill showroom floors. It was built to show what happens when imagination is allowed to run free, when performance is measured not just in horsepower but in sheer spectacle. It’s a rolling work of art, an engineering challenge brought to life, and a statement on the limitless possibilities of custom motorcycle culture.
Even today, long after its first appearance, the Lazareth LM 847 continues to inspire and provoke conversation. It’s proof that in a world full of safe, sensible choices, there’s still room for something truly wild.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops..... *** *** [EKA [10062016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOBLOG | MOTORCYCLE ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Rather than following the usual American V-twin template, the Nehme-sis begins its life as a Yamaha Road Star, a bold departure that immediately sets it apart. In the U.S., this makes it a "metric" chopper — a rare breed in a space so heavily influenced by American brands. But make no mistake, this bike is anything but ordinary. Built in 2006, the Nehme-sis was the brainchild of Sam Nehme, the man behind Florida’s Broward Motorsports and its custom wing, BMS Choppers. Sam didn’t just build a bike — he created a rolling piece of mechanical art.
Nearly two decades after its creation, the Nehme-sis still stands as a benchmark for what’s possible when boundaries are ignored and vision leads the way. Whether it’s seen gliding across the tarmac or sitting still under show lights, this golden beast continues to mesmerize and inspire — a true one-of-a-kind masterpiece in the world of custom choppers.
