Depending on which translation service you ask, this absolutely gorgeous custom BMW bike from St Brooklyn Motorcycles dubbed “L’Etonnante” is “The Amazing,” “The Surprising,” or “The Astonishing.” After seeing the bike we’re inclined to agree with all of them. What started as a 1955 BMW Sprint Racer was built over the course of six months with a 1980 1000cc motor for the purpose of clocking an absurd time at the “Sultans of Sprint” races, but it handles everything else you want to ride it over with ease. Brass, steel, dark leather, exposed welds and interesting design and fabrication choices mean this French built bike combines absurdly gorgeous lines with vintage style and raw power to create a bike truly befitting the “L’Etonnante” name. It’s interesting. It’s fast as hell. If we’re being completely honest, it’s also a bike we’d be terrified to ride. We can’t wait to see what the madmen at St Brooklyn Motorcycles cook up next.
More Transportation
A Haunted Road Trip: Ghosts, Cocktails, and a Very Creepy Hospital
From dilapidated hospitals to disapproving librarians in a bar, I took a haunted Eastern Washington road trip.
2026 Ford Bronco Outer Banks is More Civilized, But No Less Capable
The Outer Banks brings commuting comfort to Ford’s off-road icon without sanding away its personality.
A Pilgrimage to Italy’s Iconic Superbikes and Supercars in Emilia-Romagna
The museums, factory tours, racetracks, restaurants, and hotels that turn Emilia-Romagna into heaven for anyone who grew up obsessed with fast machines.