The BMW R100 “Slash 7” airhead was built in the latter half of the 1970s, a 60-hp flat twin that helped give birth to the modern sport touring motorcycle.
Enter Evan Johnson of design and photography company Kern + Hyde — a trusted partner to some of custom culture’s most popular brands. Recently, Evan and his father, Joe, completed this stunning 1978 BMW R100/7 scrambler/tracker. They wanted to trim the bulk from the bike, creating a liter-size airhead that could “rip the dirt and shake the street.”
Below, we get the full story on the build!
BMW R100/7 Scrambler: Builder Interview
• Please tell us a bit about yourself, your history with motorcycles, and your workshop.
My name is Joe, I’m 61 years young and have ridden bikes since I was 12 years old. I have built Harleys and various other motorcycles over the years, for personal use through my garage.
I guess that leaves me. My name is Evan Johnson — owner and designer at Kern + Hyde Creation Co. When I’m not designing, losing tools or wrecking bikes I like to tinker with my pops. I guess I got the Moto bug from the old (young) man.
• What’s the make, model, and year of the bike?
The build is a 1978 BMW R100/7
• Why was this bike built?
This bike was conceived as a father/son project for personal and promotional use for Kern+ Hyde.
• What was the design concept and what influenced the build?
The design was based on old school airhead scrambler/trackers that can rip the dirt and shake the street. We cut the fat, and created a slim profile. We wanted an aggressive looking bike without having the bulk that a lot of the modern scramblers or trackers have.
• What custom work was done to the bike?
Some of the custom work includes: Elimination of the diode board and point ignition system replaced with an Alpha electronic ignition, solid state rectifier/regulator with custom bracket coupled up to a Moto Gadget M-Unit, custom rear subframe, custom carbon fiber seat pan covered in Italian leather, custom low profile battery box and M-Unit housing and de-tabbed frame.
• How would you classify this bike?
scrambler/tracker
• Was there anything done during this build that you are particularly proud of?
The custom made wiring harness. 5th times a charm.
Follow the Builder/Photographer
Photos by Evan Johnson of Kern + Hyde: @kernandhyde | www.kernandhyde.com | Facebook
Special Thanks
Prism Supply – Charlotte, Nc
Boxer Metal – Chico, Ca
Ted Porters Beemer Shop – Santa Cruz, Ca
Dime City Cycles – Tamps, Fl
Vonzeti – UK
Mitch’s Stitches – San Luis Obispo, Ca
Eagle Body Shop – Arroyo Grande, Ca
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