Vagabund Moto, based in Austria, is a custom motorcycle preparation shop that continues to push the boundaries of design, materials and processes. Their 15th build based on the BMW R NineT is a culmination of its founders, Paul Brauchart and Philipp Rabl, spraying their creative magic on two wheels.
The client asked the team to make it the best two-wheeler they had ever worked on and the end result is called “Tin Man”. Using a 2016 BMW R NineT, the team developed a monocoque fairing running from the tank to the rear of the saddle. The monocoque fairing isn't just an ornamental element, however. At the push of a button on a remote control associated with the motorcycle, it lifts via hydraulic cylinders to reveal a storage compartment under the saddle. When opened, the Motogadget dashboard also moves so that it is visible through the fairing.
While the metallic fairing attracts attention, a front mudguard and a fork crown integrating the indicators complete the monocoque. Given the design of the steering column, Vagabund also had to fabricate an aluminum housing for the gas tank, electronics and custom chassis.
Vagabund is also not ignoring performances with his Tin Man project. A pair of Rotobox carbon fiber wheels fitted with Pirelli Diablo Corsa SP tires certainly improves handling, while Rizoma supplies most of the accessories. Even though the exhaust outlet has been redesigned, the original catalytic converter keeps the R NineT fully approved for road use.
Finally, Vagabung Moto turned to Grundmann to paint the monocoque a Mercedes Selenite Gray Magno color. However, the underside only receives a transparent layer to highlight the know-how of the painter, and the minimalist side of the project.
