BMW has a long history as a premier producer of motorcycles designed to carry a sidecar. For nearly 50 years BMW made luxurious black, shaft drive motorcycles for sidecar use. In fact, BMW dominated sidecar racing as world champions throughout 1954 - 1967.

In 1998, BMW shocked the motorcycle world with its introduction of the R1200C "Cruiser". James Bond even showed us how to ride one while wearing handcuffs. John Landstrom, owner of Blue Moon Cycle in Norcross, GA, says he "fell in love with the R1200C at first sight". He explains, "Here was a motorcycle that was totally innovative, yet had roots to the nostalgic BMWs of yesteryear."

Many of the design features of the new R1200C lend themselves perfectly to sidecar use. First and foremost is the telelever front suspension. This design prevents front-end dive and has great strength for the side loads induced by a sidecar. Steering remains light, and suspension is compliant. There are no alterations required, so the bike can be quickly detached from the sidecar and used as a solo machine. A 1200cc fuel injected engine tuned for low end torque makes a perfect power plant. ABS brakes, tubeless tires, and shaft drive are further examples of the Cruiser's adaptability to sidecar use.

In the 1930's, Steib was the largest producer of sidecars in the world. This German company supplied sidecars to most European motorcycle manufacturers; BMW was probably their largest account. In the spirit of the great German zeppelins, the art deco-styled Steib S500 was born. This timeless design remained popular through the 1950's. Reintroduced in the 1980's, a small German firm still produces hand-built Steibs to the original specifications. The modern Steib sidecar is all steel construction and matches the original so closely that all parts are interchangeable with the early Steib.

Blue Moon Cycle has been importing the Steib S500, TR500, and LS200 models to the USA for over ten years. It was only a matter of time until Blue Moon discerned that the R1200C and Steib sidecars were meant for each other. Developing the ultimate R1200C accessory, mating the Steib sidecar to the Cruiser, was no easy task. Because the Cruiser has no frame (all major components attach directly to the engine block), an elaborate set of bracketry had to be developed. Blue Moon solicited the services of a German engineering firm specializing in custom sidecar fabrication. An elegant set of 4-point attachments were developed. Thomas Thiel, Blue Moon's parts expert, manipulated the attachments and came up with a perfect pairing. Many people unfamiliar with the Steib S500 think that motorcycle and sidecar were a singular design exercise.

The BMW R1200C/Steib S500 sidecar rig has neutral steering and excellent handling characteristics. Acceleration and braking are phenomenal. The sidecar offers a smooth ride; passenger comfort is enhanced by suspended sidecar axle and a body that floats on coil springs. A quick detachable windshield and tonneau cover are included. Blue Moon is also developing a BMW R1200C/Steib TR500 rig that will offer similar benefits.

Blue Moon Cycle is offering a limited number of BMW Cruiser sidecar rigs for sale. Steib S500 unpainted with attachment brackets for R1200C (includes windshield, tonneau cover, carpeting) $6,995. Painting and pinstriping optional

We also offer complete R1200C/Steib S500 units built to your specifications. Price on request.

For more information call us at 770.447.6945 or e-mail us.