A retro car enthusiast’s delight! The ’80s auto scene was known for its bold and flamboyant aesthetic, and nowhere was this more evident than in the proliferation of outlandish decals that transformed otherwise ordinary vehicles into works of art. Among vibrant hues, from pink sunsets that fade into the horizon to teal paint splashes bursting with creativity, and ostentatious graduated pinstripes adding a touch of sophistication. With an unbridled sense of adventure, these individuals imbued even the most ordinary cars with an infectious enthusiasm, transforming them into vessels of pure excitement.
The German workshop Free Screw pays tribute to 1980s styling in their latest build, a vehicle that proudly wears its retro aesthetic with pride. Unlike their past constructions, this bicycle rests on a thoroughly modern foundation. The donor vehicle was a Bonfire E, a high-performance electric motorcycle crafted by the innovative German manufacturer Black Sea Motorcycles.
Offered at an affordable price point, the Bonfire E targets a wide audience by providing both a restricted model suitable for riders without a full motorcycle license and a full-power version for experienced riders. Built for urban commutes or spontaneous weekend adventures on unpaved terrain, the high-performance variant boasts a top speed of 80 km/h and a range of 55 km. The Bonfire E’s retro scrambler aesthetic was deliberately crafted, and while the design effectively evoked nostalgia, the Free Screw crew felt compelled to push the boundaries further.
With the objective of revitalizing the vehicle’s profile, the initial step involved subtle refinements to the Bonfire’s underlying structure. The redesigned rear loop in the chassis perfectly aligns with Free Screws’ innovative vision. Perched atop the sturdy subframe, a bespoke seat pan cradles a majestic white and purple leather-upholstered saddle, its regal beauty accentuated by intricate purple stitching that adds a pop of color. The sleek and innovative gasoline tank is a bespoke design inspired by the angular units found on high-performance KTM mopeds, boasting an unmistakable flair for the extraordinary. Despite lacking gasoline, the vehicle still features a practical storage compartment accessible through a removable panel, ideal for storing essentials like gloves and everyday carry items.
In my opinion, one of the Bonfire E’s most underwhelming features is its battery compartment. In the absence of its typical occupant, a massive black expanse fills the space where an engine would normally be situated, bereft of any visual embellishments or design features. While attempting to enhance the bike’s appearance, this addition comes across as an inconsequential afterthought, failing to make any meaningful contribution to its aerodynamic profile. The free screw has introduced a noticeable degree of fascination to both the field and faceted panels. Laser-cut guards with intricate, asymmetrical designs are precisely crafted onto the prime of the field, adding a touch of sophistication to this already striking design. The sleek design features equally styled stomach pans and angular mudguards at both the front and rear entrances.
Screw-Free has implemented various modifications to the Bonfire’s infrastructure. This compact LED headlighting system features a Koso Thunderbolt headlamp and discreet Kellermann Atto dual-function turn signals. The handlebars are LSL objects, typically adorned with clear grips from Hookie Co. The equipment has all been rewired using an AxelJoost management unit. With the addition of Motogadget’s innovative mo.Lock system, the bike has been upgraded to a keyless ignition, while the Kenda 3.5 x 18 tires provide a purpose-built fitment for optimal performance.
With its bold and vibrant colour scheme, the defining feature of this bicycle undoubtedly harks back to the retro aesthetics of the 1980s. Viktoria Greiner’s bold composition features a harmonious blend of white, pink, purple, and teal hues, showcasing her artistic prowess. Greiner was tasked by FreeScrew with painting a custom motorcycle and a Bell Moto 3 helmet in a matching design. The unmistakable ’80s aesthetic combines a medley of retro-inspired patterns, including zebra stripes, pinstripe gradients, and the iconic winged nut emblem of Free Screws. To cap it all off, the brand-new paintwork radiates a mesmerizing glow when exposed to the specially designed black light embedded in the tank’s underside. A sleek, modern fusion with a nostalgic twist would fit seamlessly into the iconic 1980s setting of Miami Vice.
Images by Manuel Schäfer
