"The Pope" and "a specially modified BMW R 18" are an unexpected pairing, but here we are, all for a good cause. Earlier this month, a modified BMW R 18 Transcontinental was presented to the pope for his blessing and signature. This unique motorcycle, considered the holiest bike on earth, will be auctioned by Missio Austria via Sotheby's in October.
All proceeds from the auction will benefit children's aid projects in Madagascar.
The motorcycle was donated by BMW Motorrad Deutschland, but it was Thomas Draxler, founder of JESUS-BIKER, who proposed the idea of combining the Pope and a cruiser. The R 18 Transcontinental had to be specially modified before being blessed, painted mother-of-pearl white, adorned with the Vatican coat of arms, and other enhancements. It embarked on a 'Peace Ride' from Motorrad Witzel in Sennfeld to Rome, accompanied by church services and representatives of JESUS-BIKER.
Upon reaching the Vatican, Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad, and Michael Sommer, Head of BMW Motorrad Germany, presented the bike to the Pope. Flasch expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to support children's aid projects in Madagascar through this initiative.
If you happen to be in Munich from September 15 to October 7, you can view the bike at BMW Welt. The question remains: how much would someone be willing to pay for this unique piece of machinery? Share your thoughts in the comments.