BMW R100RT - Prinz

The BMW R100RT Prinz by NCT Motorcycles is a 1995 touring classic stripped back, overhauled, and rebuilt as a lean cafe-influenced custom. Where the original R100RT was defined by its broad wind fairing and touring posture, the Prinz strips those layers away and replaces them with a tighter, darker aesthetic that reveals the architecture underneath.

The Concept

NCT Motorcycles approached the BMW R100RT as a complete rebuild, not a cosmetic refresh. The entire bike was stripped down to its essentials. The rear frame was rebuilt. The seat was re-covered in brown leather, a material choice that anchors the Prinz to its cafe racer intention. The full frame and rims were powder coated, creating a consistent surface finish that reads as deliberate rather than economic.

The Build

The engine was fully overhauled and painted black together with the front fork, unifying the mechanical core into a single dark mass against the blue tank. The exhaust retains the stock architecture but uses custom-made pipes for a cleaner exit. A rollover bar sourced from another motorcycle was fitted. Firestone tires complete the rolling assembly. The cockpit received significant attention: stock handlebars were replaced with racer clip-ons from LSL, the original controls were swapped out, and a Motogadget M-Unit was installed to handle the electrical architecture cleanly. A T and T speedometer provides a simple, period-appropriate instrument face. Headlights and front turn signals are new LED units. Rear signals use full LED clusters with an integrated tail light. New brake lever, clutch lever, and throttle handle. The rear monoshock and brake disc were also replaced.

What Makes It

The Prinz achieves what many R-series customs attempt and few accomplish: a motorcycle that feels transformed rather than modified. The dark blue tank against the blacked-out engine and frame creates a palette that is restrained and coherent. The LSL clip-on handlebars shift the rider's position and the bike's intention simultaneously. The brown leather seat introduces warmth into an otherwise austere build. NCT's signature is clean Austrian precision, and the Prinz carries it without announcing it.

Specifications

• Builder: NCT Motorcycles
• Base bike: BMW R100RT (1995)
• Engine: Overhauled, painted black
• Frame finish: Powder coated
• Handlebars: LSL racer clip-ons
• Electronics: Motogadget M-Unit
• Seat: Brown leather
• Tires: Firestone
• Lighting: Full LED (front and rear)
• Exhaust: Stock architecture with custom pipes

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