In 1992, BMW introduced the K1100LT, a heavyweight tourer featuring the largest engine ever in a BMW motorcycle at the time — a powerful 1092cc. With its 16-valve head from the BMW K1, it produced 100 hp and 79 lb-ft of torque, delivering a quarter-mile time of 12.6 seconds. Despite its 639 lbs wet weight, the bike made a mark in the motorcycle world.
Known for their distinctive design, BMW K bikes had their DOHC engines positioned sideways in the frame, leading to their nickname “Flying Bricks.” However, these bikes were notorious for smoking when left on their side stands.
In recent times, custom builders have been reimagining BMW K bikes, shedding weight and enhancing performance. Vytautas Alekna, a talented builder from Lithuania, took this challenge to a whole new level with his radical creation — SCARECROW-2.
Growing up in his father’s garage, Vytautas developed a passion for bikes at an early age. His father, a devoted biker, gifted him a Latvian Karpat 50cc moped when he was just 10. Fast forward to 2020, Vytautas received a dream bike — a ’93 BMW K1100LT — as a gift from his father to ride together.
Initially planning a simple project, Vytautas decided to transform the bike against his father’s wish to keep it original. With guidance from his friend and custom builder Mindaugas Silgalis, Vytautas embarked on his first-ever project.
The transformation of SCARECROW-2 is nothing short of extraordinary. The meticulously crafted aluminum tank, taking over a month to complete, showcases Vytautas’s dedication. He created a cardboard model before cutting each piece from 2mm aluminum using a jigsaw, later welding them into the stunning shape you see today.
SCARECROW-2 rides on two front wheels from an R18, with the rear wheel re-laced to an R1200C hub to match the original driveshaft. The S1000R front suspension, Brembo brakes, and a hydraulic clutch conversion contribute to its impressive performance. Vytautas enlarged the intake for better efficiency, and the bike features a completely unique 4-into-1 exhaust system.
