The BMW R80 is a favorite among café racer enthusiasts. Its classic design and reliable engine make it a solid choice for customization. Turning it into a café racer brings style and performance upgrades. Picking the right aftermarket parts is key for this transformation.
Many options exist, but not all fit well. Quality parts improve both the bike’s look and how it rides. Cheap or ill-fitting components can cause frustration. Investing in the best parts saves time and trouble later.
This guide helps you find parts that work best for a BMW R80 café racer conversion. I’ll share ideas, tips, and trusted suppliers. You’ll know what to buy and why. This saves you from hours of research and costly mistakes. Let’s get started.
Essential Components for Conversion
Seats and Subframes
The seat and subframe change the bike’s look. The original seat on the BMW R80 is large and doesn’t fit the café racer style. A low-profile seat works better. It gives the bike a sleek and clean design. Many seats come with a matching subframe. This subframe replaces the rear section of the frame. It makes the bike look sharp and minimal.
Comfort is important too. A seat with enough padding makes long rides more enjoyable. Some subframes also include a tray for the battery. This keeps the battery hidden and the bike looking neat.
Handlebars and Controls
The handlebars decide how the bike feels to ride. Café racers have a low and forward stance. Clip-on handlebars are a common choice. They attach to the front forks and sit below the tank. This setup makes the bike look sporty. Clubman handlebars are another option. These attach to the original clamps and are easier to install.
Upgrading controls improves the riding experience. Better levers feel smooth and last longer. Comfortable grips make long rides easier. A vintage design adds to the café racer style. Always match the handlebars and controls with the seat and subframe for a balanced look.
Exhaust Systems
The exhaust changes how the bike sounds and performs. The original exhaust on the BMW R80 is large and heavy. A smaller system fits the café racer look better. Two-in-one exhausts work well. They improve airflow and give the bike a cleaner appearance.
Material is important. Stainless steel and titanium last longer and resist rust. Sound matters too. A café racer exhaust should sound deep and powerful without being too loud. Check local noise regulations before installing a new system.
Suspension Upgrades
Better suspension improves how the bike handles. The stock suspension is decent but doesn’t match the sporty feel of a café racer. Rear shocks are simple to upgrade. Adjustable shocks work best. You can fine-tune them for your weight and riding style.
The front forks also need an upgrade. New springs or a cartridge system make a big difference. They improve damping and reduce front-end dive when braking. Good suspension upgrades make the ride smooth and safe.
Lighting and Electrical Components
The lights on the BMW R80 are large and outdated. Replacing them improves both style and safety. LED headlights are bright and use less power. A round design matches the vintage café racer style. Small LED indicators add a modern touch and keep the bike looking clean.
The electrical system on the R80 is old. Modern parts like a lithium battery and a digital ignition make it more reliable. A compact battery is easier to hide, keeping the frame clean and uncluttered. A simple and efficient electrical setup improves both the look and performance of the bike.
Top Recommended Aftermarket Parts and Suppliers
Finding the right parts makes the conversion process easier. Some suppliers specialize in BMW R80 parts. They offer products that fit perfectly and perform well. Below is a list of trusted suppliers and their best parts.
Seats and Subframes
Boxer2Valve provides high-quality seat and subframe kits. These kits are designed for café racers and fit the BMW R80. Café Racer Webshop also offers sleek seat options. Many of their seats come with built-in subframes, which simplifies installation.
Handlebars and Controls
Moto CNC is known for precision-made handlebars and controls. Their clip-ons and grips work perfectly with vintage bikes. Café Racer Webshop also has clubman handlebars and vintage-style controls. These parts add comfort and style.
Exhaust Systems
Caferacerwebshop.com offers lightweight two-in-one exhaust systems for the BMW R80. Powerbrick Performance specializes in stainless steel exhausts. These exhausts improve performance and sound without being too loud.
Suspension Upgrades
Öhlins and YSS are top choices for rear shocks. Both brands offer adjustable shocks that improve handling. For front forks, Progressive Suspension and Wilbers provide high-quality springs and cartridge kits.
Lighting and Electrical Components
Motogadget is a leading brand for café racer lighting. Their LED headlights and indicators are bright and stylish. Powerbrick Performance offers modern electrical components. Their compact batteries and ignition systems work well with older bikes.
These suppliers make parts specifically for café racers. Their products save time and effort during installation. Always check reviews and compatibility before buying.
Installation Tips and Considerations
Installing new parts requires care and planning. Each part must fit the BMW R80 perfectly. Poor installation can cause problems. Follow these tips to make the process easier.
Plan Before You Start
List all the parts you need. Double-check that each one fits your bike model. Read the product details carefully. This avoids buying the wrong size or style.
Use the Right Tools
Basic tools include wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers. A torque wrench is useful for tightening bolts to the correct level. Some parts may need special tools. Check the installation instructions before starting.
Work in Steps
Replace one part at a time. This helps you focus and keeps the process simple. Remove the old part completely before adding the new one. Keep bolts and screws organized so you don’t lose them.
Check Fitment
After installing each part, check if it fits properly. Adjust as needed. This prevents issues later. For example, ensure the handlebars are straight, or the lights point in the right direction.
Test the Bike
After installing all parts, take the bike for a test ride. Pay attention to how it feels and sounds. Check for any loose bolts or misaligned parts. Make adjustments if needed.
Know When to Ask for Help
Some installations may require advanced skills. For example, rewiring the electrical system or installing suspension upgrades. If you are not confident, visit a professional mechanic. This ensures the bike is safe to ride.
Proper installation improves the performance and look of the bike. It also ensures safety and reliability on the road.
Conclusion
Converting a BMW R80 into a café racer is exciting. The right parts make the process easier and the result better. Each part adds to the bike’s style, performance, and comfort.
Start with a sleek seat and subframe. This gives the bike its café racer look. Upgrade the handlebars and controls for a sporty stance. Replace the stock exhaust with a lightweight system for better sound and performance. Improve the suspension to make the ride smoother and safer. Finally, modern lighting and electrical parts add reliability and style.
Research your options before buying. Focus on trusted suppliers like Boxer2Valve, Moto CNC, and Powerbrick Performance. Their parts fit the BMW R80 perfectly and are built to last. Use the tips in this guide to install your parts correctly.
Building a café racer is a personal journey. Every part you pick reflects your style and passion for riding. With the right upgrades, your BMW R80 will look amazing and ride even better.
FAQs
Do I need to modify the frame to install a new seat and subframe?
Many aftermarket seats and subframes for the BMW R80 are designed to bolt on without cutting or welding. Always check the product details to ensure compatibility.
Will changing the exhaust system affect engine performance?
Yes, installing a new exhaust can change engine performance. It may require adjusting the carburetor to ensure the engine runs smoothly.
Can I install new handlebars without changing the cables?
It depends on the type of handlebars. Some may need longer or shorter cables. Check the requirements before installation.
Is it necessary to upgrade the suspension for a café racer conversion?
Upgrading the suspension improves ride quality and handling. While not mandatory, it enhances the overall performance of the bike.
Do I need professional help to install these parts?
Basic installations can be done at home with the right tools. For complex tasks like electrical work or suspension upgrades, consider seeking professional assistance.
