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This latest build is a little unusual. The bike is a GS hybrid with old school reliability (Bing carbs, and Hall sensor / coils ignition), and modern (R1200) power. It was a super low mileage 2008 R1200R, and having experienced breakdowns on all three previous CAN-bus wiz-bang systems bikes, I wanted a system could be fixed at the roadside. A Silent Hektik ignition and Motogadget module sits under the tank. A seat and tank cover sourced from Unit Garage in Italy allowed for the GS conversion.
The sidecar uses the unit radius / trail arm and air bag system (with on-the-fly camber adjustment provided by a series of solenoid valves), and the chassis is the modular platform structure. This does not use a conventional subframe, but instead mounts at four points to the engine, frame, and tele-lever pivot (though with the leading links does not pivot).
Body panels are very minimalist (all aluminum), so this unit weighs in at just under 170lbs, it has generous ground clearance, 8 inches of suspension travel, and front / rear recovery points, which will all be put to good use (front winch in the works), and of course on-board air system. Braking is provided with a full-size rotor, and Brembo caliper (pressure is adjustable with an easy access proportional valve).
Will be installing a digital dash, fly screen and aggressive front tire to complete the build (rear tire is a 175 Hakkapelitta which will be de-studded for summer), then it's out on the trails to see how it performs. We are very fortunate to have Mosquito Pass at the end of our lane, but we'll give Boras Pass a go first before tackling the more brutal trails. Not sure if we will keep the rig as a long-term demo, or if we'll offer it up later in the year. Below are a bunch of pics that show the build.
![20260531 114425[1]](https://sidecar.com/wp-content/uploads/wpforo/attachments/10074/6161-202605311144251.jpg "20260531 114425[1]")
Posted : May 31, 2026 12:53 pm
FlyingMonkeys and Chris Murphy reacted
Guy @scramblersidecars are you planning on using the current wheels that are on this rig, shown in the pictures, for seriously off-road/trail driving ?
Hmmm......Hmmm I say.....and that's all I have to say about that.
Two Million Mile Rider
Exploring the World in Comfort
Posted : May 31, 2026 1:43 pm