I am virtually lame regarding BMWs, I know that they are the epitome of reliability, safety, and comfort, but on the downside for me, they just don't have the right image. I want something that is racy, respected, and of the right heritage. Norton-Dunstall is pretty much the epitome of Western European cafe racing style. Triumph was right behind Norton for handling, class, respectability, and just all around being kool, but I think that relates to the older triumphs, although the new Triumphs have it all over the older ones for safety, reliability, not being considered the "Prince of Darkness" when it comes to needing reliability. BSAs, (Birmingham Small Arms) early makers of European rifles & carbines for those of you not into it, I never considered in the same class as a Norton or a Triumph. I had one, and they are somewhat more troublesome that their brothers. I think that making a cafe racer out of a BMW, if you have a chance to pick up one decent, would be fun & kool, but not in the same league as a Norton-Dunstall, and I have no idea what a Norton-Dunstall is worth on today's market. Nor how many of them are around. Truly the epitome of early 70's style cafe racing. Might want to pick up a motorcycle selling monthly or semi-monthly publication called Wanek's, or something like that, that seem to specialize in the unusual bikes left in circulation. A Norton-Dunstall would be pretty much the GNX of the cafe racer crowd. Very elite, but probably pricey. HTH