During the US Prohibition era, the Thompson submachine gun was the weapon of choice for both policemen and gangsters. It was compact, ergonomic and very reliable- the same features found in the BMW R69S ‘Thompson’ Motorcycle, a gorgeous build inspired by the legendary “Trench Sweeper”.

Aiming to combine history and craftsmanship with modern technology, Slovenia’s garage ER Motorcycles decided to use warm&natural materials, to contrast with the metal details and the blue of the classic fuel tank. The bike boasts beautiful custom-made leather saddlebags along with a wooden seat (cut and shaped from a slab of teak). Mechanically, the ‘Thompson’ is a mix of vintage components, borrowed from other BMW motorcycles.

Although the R69S frame remains, the overhauled engine and transmission are from an R100, the swingarm and upper triple tree from an R80, while the rear wheel is supplied by an R50/5. Other specs include a pair of modified Hagon shocks, a Borrani front wheel with Inox spokes, Spark MotoGP mufflers, and -reigning at the front- a Vintage Black Ops headlight by Roland Sands, that adds to the overall old-school look. Yes, the BMW R69S ‘Thompson’ motorcycle is an authentic son of a gun. via

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