Custom motorcycle builds often begin with admiration. However, the best ones grow from obsession. In this case, that obsession belongs to Krishna Rajan of KR Customs, whose fascination with BMW motorcycles runs deep. In fact, it took shape years ago during a ride through Switzerland on a BMW GS800. That experience, in turn, left a lasting impression on how a motorcycle should look and feel. Today, that passion takes physical form in this reimagined Royal Enfield Continental GT 535, clearly inspired by the timeless silhouette of the BMW R100.

The Spark: An Airhead Tank and a Big Idea

The turning point arrived during a work trip to Princeton. There, Krishna stumbled upon an original BMW airhead fuel tank from the 1980s. Immediately, its condition and character stood out. As a result, the tank became the centerpiece of a new vision. From the outset, that vision aimed to blend classic BMW design language with a more accessible mechanical base.

However, sourcing a boxer engine in India proved impractical. Instead, KR Customs chose the Royal Enfield Continental GT 535 as the donor bike. Notably, the team sourced it from the used motorcycle market, keeping the project grounded and realistic.

Reworking the Bones

From there, the transformation began with a complete teardown. To achieve the visual drama of the BMW R100, KR Customs heavily modified the frame and bodywork. In particular, the rear demanded the most attention. Rather than using a conventional centrally mounted monoshock, the team committed to recreating the R100’s distinctive asymmetrical mono-lever setup.

After weeks of searching, KR Customs selected a BMW-spec YSS mono-lever. Even then, adapting it to the Continental GT frame posed a major challenge. Ultimately, the process required nearly a month of trial, adjustment, and testing. Only then did the team achieve a mounting position that looked right, felt solid, and remained safe for real-world riding.

Front-End Precision

Meanwhile, the front end demanded equal precision. For this reason, KR Customs selected a Honda CB750 triple tree. Compared to CB500 units used in earlier builds, it offered a wider stance. That choice, however, introduced another challenge. The CB750 clamps suit 35 mm forks, while the GT runs 51 mm units.

To solve this, the team turned to the Royal Enfield Classic 500 front suspension. As a result, the setup bridged the gap while maintaining proper geometry and balance.

Controls, Cockpit & Details

Moving upward, a custom short handlebar sets the riding posture. Alongside it, Domino grips add tactile quality. Billet-aluminium switch housings finished in black reinforce the premium feel. Meanwhile, bar-end mirrors keep the cockpit clean and minimal.

Interestingly, the stock Continental GT headlamp fits the BMW-inspired design perfectly. With only a bespoke bracket, it integrates seamlessly. Likewise, a single-pod gauge keeps the instrumentation classic and uncluttered. Below, a custom 12-inch exhaust, built in-house, delivers a sound KR Customs describes as sitting between a Harley-Davidson growl and the unmistakable Royal Enfield thump.

Stance, Rubber & Rideability

At ground level, the bike rolls on stock hubs paired with aftermarket wheels. These, in turn, wear chunky Firestone vintage tyres. An 18-inch wheel up front and a 16-inch rear create a muscular, planted stance. Initially, the build leaned toward café racer territory. However, the owner’s request for comfort pushed the final layout toward a brat-style setup—upright, usable, and street-friendly.

Power comes from the stock 535cc engine, which drives the rear wheel via chain. Ideally, a shaft drive and boxer motor would have completed the illusion. Realistically, that approach proved far too costly. Instead, KR Customs focused on balance, delivering visual drama without sacrificing practicality.

Compact Tail & Clean Packaging

At the rear, the shortened frame tightens the proportions. Above it, the saddle sits neatly over an integrated electrical box. Inside, a lightweight anti-gravity battery keeps things compact. Finally, a modern hanging number plate adds a contemporary touch without disturbing the bike’s vintage character.

The Grigio Finish

To finish, paint elevates the entire build. KR Customs coats the motorcycle in “Grigio” grey, a shade famously associated with Ferrari. Because of this, the colour pushes the bike from custom to couture. Subtle yet unmistakably premium, it complements the BMW-inspired lines perfectly. Fittingly, the team christened the motorcycle with a simple name: Grigio.

A Thoughtful Tribute

Ultimately, this Continental GT 535 avoids becoming a replica. Instead, it stands as a respectful reinterpretation. By blending BMW R100 aesthetics with Royal Enfield engineering, KR Customs celebrates influence without imitation. In the end, the build reflects passion, patience, and precision—proof that with the right vision, even familiar machines can tell entirely new stories.

Photo : KR Customs/Arun Sivaraman [*enhanced with ChatGPT5.2]