One

Of a kind

From SCOTT CROAKER comes this piece of news on a unique BMW to be auctioned in Paris. “A once in a lifetime opportunity; the R 1232 the creation of Jean-Luc Dupont and his team at French BMW Motorrad dealership, Panda Moto 89 is to be offered for sale at Bonhams Les Grandes Marques Du Monde Au Grand Palais Auction in Paris on February 6. The R 1232 is a modern representation of the iconic R 32 built using current technology. Powered by an R 1200 GS motor, this astonishing machine abounds in special features including a hand gearchange for the six-speed gearbox; a footoperated clutch; rear-view mirrors mounted on the cylinder heads; copper fuel lines; and rear disc brake disguised as a drum. Everywhere one looks there are delightful surprises. Completed in 2010 after 16 months work, this Herculean project consumed over 600 man-hours in fabricating and assembly. ‘Harley-Davidson has built its reputation on having their motorcycles as a modern interpretation of the past. I wanted to do the same for BMW and where better to start than BMW’s first motorcycle, the R 32?’ said Jean-Luc. “This is a once in a life-time opportunity for an astute collector to invest in a never to be repeated BMW Motorcycle. The workmanship is stunning and the R 1232 is in full riding order. There has been interest from around the world and we are hopeful of achieving a result in the $AUS 70,000-$85,000 vicinity” said Ben Walker, Bonham’s Motorcycle Specialist.