The Story Behind a One-of-a-Kind Motorcycle
A Talk with International Guest Speaker Hans Keckeisen & Co-Host Peter Nettesheim
Saturday May 10th | 6:30pm - 8:30pm
This Saturday, May 10th, join us at the Reboli Center for an exciting and informative talk with two distinguished figures in the world of classic motorcycles, international guest, Hans Keckeisen, and Long Island’s own, Peter Nettesheim. Hans and Peter will be discussing the fascinating history of BMW, the iconic Bavarian motor company, and the creation of a truly unique motorcycle that Keckeisen built specifically for Nettesheim’s museum collection. This one-of-a-kind motorcycle is currently on prominent display in our Getting There exhibition, located in the main gallery, (as pictured above).
If you’re a fan of automotive history, you likely already know that BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, or Bavarian Motor Works in English. While the company initially gained fame for producing aircraft engines, a common myth is that its iconic round emblem, featuring a blue-and-white section, represents a spinning airplane propeller. In fact, the emblem is derived from the coat of arms of the Free State of Bavaria, where BMW was founded.
The talk will also touch on Peter Nettesheim’s incredible contributions to preserving BMW’s legacy. Peter is the owner of Nettesheim Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of BMW motorcycles, based on Long Island, NY. With over 120 motorcycles spanning from 1923 to 1970, as well as 30 additional models from the 1970s onward, Nettesheim’s museum offers a remarkable look into the history and evolution of BMW’s motorcycle line.
Hans Keckeisen is a master craftsman whose expertise in sheet metalwork, restoration, and reconstruction of classic motorcycles is second to none. Keckeisen specializes in restoring unusual bodywork and racing parts, always with meticulous attention to detail. Drawing from years of experience and a passion for traditional craftsmanship techniques, Keckeisen is renowned for his work with BMW, Megola, and Windhoff motorcycles, among others. He treats each project with individual care, striving for the greatest possible authenticity and originality. Keckeisen works with a diverse international clientele, from Austria to the USA, and his work is known for its dedication to preserving the technical cultural heritage of motorcycles.
We’re also proud to mention that The Reboli Center had the privilege of conducting an exclusive video interview with Peter Nettesheim several years ago, where he shares insights into his work, his museum, and his deep passion for BMW motorcycles. The full interview is available for free on The Reboli Center YouTube channel, offering a deeper dive into Peter's extraordinary collection and his dedication to preserving the history of BMW.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from two experts in the field and learn more about the history and craftsmanship behind these incredible machines. We hope to see you this Saturday!