BMW AIRHEAD RESTORATION
BMW Airhead Restoration by Boxer Metal
BMW Airhead motorcycles have earned a reputation for durability, simplicity, and timeless design. Decades after they were built, these motorcycles continue to attract riders who appreciate classic engineering and the unique character of BMW's air-cooled boxer twin.
At Boxer Metal, BMW Airheads are more than a specialty—they have been a lifelong passion.
For more than 37 years, Chris Canterbury has worked with BMW motorcycles, restoring, modifying, fabricating, and building custom Airheads for riders throughout the United States and around the world.
Whether you're restoring a family heirloom, reviving a long-forgotten project, or building your dream motorcycle, Boxer Metal can help bring your Airhead back to life.
What Is an Airhead?
The term "Airhead" refers to BMW's air-cooled boxer twin motorcycles produced from the 1970s through the mid-1990s.
Popular models include:
- BMW R50
- BMW R60
- BMW R65
- BMW R75
- BMW R80
- BMW R90
- BMW R100
- BMW R100GS
- BMW R100RS
- BMW R100RT
These motorcycles remain popular because of their mechanical simplicity, reliability, and ability to be customized for a wide variety of riding styles.
Restoration Services
Every restoration project begins with an evaluation of the motorcycle's condition and the owner's goals.
Projects may include:
Mechanical Restoration
- Engine rebuilding
- Transmission service
- Final drive rebuilding
- Carburetor rebuilding
- Charging system upgrades
- Electrical troubleshooting
- Brake system restoration
Cosmetic Restoration
- Paint and finish work
- Frame refinishing
- Wheel restoration
- Hardware replacement
- Seat restoration
- Fuel tank refurbishment
Functional Upgrades
Many riders want a motorcycle that maintains its vintage appearance while benefiting from modern reliability.
Popular upgrades include:
- Charging system improvements
- Electronic ignition systems
- Suspension upgrades
- Improved lighting
- Brake upgrades
- Touring accessories
- Modern wheel and tire options
Restoration or Custom Build?
Not every Airhead restoration needs to return the motorcycle to factory specifications.
Many Boxer Metal customers choose to blend restoration with personalization.
Common custom Airhead projects include:
- Scramblers
- Café racers
- Touring motorcycles
- Adventure bikes
- Sidecar motorcycles
- Vintage-inspired customs
The result is a motorcycle that preserves the spirit of the original while reflecting the personality and riding style of its owner.
Why Choose Boxer Metal?
BMW Airheads require specialized knowledge.
With decades of BMW-specific experience, Boxer Metal understands the details that make these motorcycles unique.
From rare parts and technical troubleshooting to fabrication and performance upgrades, our experience allows us to solve problems that many general motorcycle shops simply don't encounter.
We approach every project with the same philosophy:
Build motorcycles that are meant to be ridden.
Explore Our Airhead Gallery
The best way to understand the possibilities of an Airhead restoration is to see completed projects.
Our gallery features restored motorcycles, custom builds, sidecar conversions, touring machines, and one-of-a-kind BMW Airheads that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship behind Boxer Metal.
Browse the gallery to see what's possible and gather inspiration for your own project.
Start Your Airhead Restoration
Whether you have a complete motorcycle, a basket case project, or simply an idea, Boxer Metal can help.
Contact us to discuss your BMW Airhead restoration project and learn how decades of BMW experience can help turn your vision into reality.