1970 BMW R-Series

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You are looking at a 1970 BMW R90/5 (yep, you read that right!)--an R60/5 professionally upgraded to an R90 powerplant and fitted with a very rare Avon Lynx full sport fairing . The bike is all R60/5 with the exception of the R90 engine which was professionally integrated by long-time BMW airhead specialist, Craig Immel (factory-trained and a former BMW dealership owner/lead mechanic at Heritage BMW). The work was done more than 15 years ago and has proven not only reliable, but exceptional. The superb 900cc engine is mated to the original, bullet-proof 4-speed transmission, which retains the signature BMW side-throw kick start lever (in addition to electric start). The result is an incredibly smooth, torquey power delivery that is far superior to the rather anemic 600cc engine. As you can see in the pics, the engine badging remains R60/5, creating a bit of a "sleeper." The only visual giveaway to the upgrade is the larger, constant-velocity BING carburetors. There are no leaks, no issues and the bike is in good tune. While the engine upgrade is subtle, the bike is a real eye catcher with the classic BMW black with hand-painted white pin striping (all original) matched with the striking Avon Lynx full fairing. This very rare period-correct aftermarket fairing was made specifically to fit the BMW and is, alone, worth a small fortune. The fairing does a beautiful job of elongating the lines of the BMW and creating a very streamline look. A dark Gustaffson windscreen is installed and a clear shield comes with the bike as well. The fairing also comes with an alternate headlight trim, although I really love the look of the clear bubble nose over the headlight (also a Gustaffson product specifically for the Avon Lynx fairing). The hump-back sport seat is a purchase made direct from Germany and further accentuates the sporty lines of the bike, while also matching the sloping lines of the Wixom saddlebags. The original BMW two-passenger seat (complete with grab rails) is included and is also in excellent condition. This show-winning BMW always gets tremendous attention and is an absolute joy to ride. It fires up immediately every time, settles into a nice, even idle and pulls away strongly in any gear. I've had many airhead BMWs and this is one of the best running ones I've ever experienced. In keeping with the original look and spirit, you can see that the bike retains the original drum brakes front and rear. The brakes work well, but remember, this is a vintage bike, so expectations should be in line with that. A couple of fun inclusions are the original BMW hand-operated tire pump, mounted on the frame under the seat by the rear fender where it has been since new. The complete BMW tool roll is also included (these were incredible, quality tool kits with virtually everything needed to do full maintenance, including valve adjustments). The bike also comes with a handful of spare items. Nits ... The bike is in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition, especially considering it is a 48-year-old classic with original paint and pinstriping. That said, there are minor scuffs/wear and a very small dimple on the right side of the tank (where the tip of the starter button came in contact with the tank at one time); a paintless method should take care of that. The fairing had been repainted at some point in time and is quite presentable (as you can see in the photos) but is not perfect. All aluminum and chrome is excellent and show-worthy. Tires are good and have approximately 80% tread or more. I absolutely love these old airhead BMWs and this one in particular is a real show stopper and a joy to ride, thanks to the increased power and torque of the 900cc engine. The airhead BMWs--especially /2 and /5 models--are rapidly becoming highly collectible and continue to increase in value. What makes the old BMWs so terrific as collectibles is that they can (and should) be ridden regularly and there is an incredibly strong parts and support network. But you won't need much; they are practically bulletproof! I'd love for this machine to go to someone who truly appreciates what it is and is interested in preserving this special machine. I have done my best to represent the condition of this motorcycle accurately and transparently. Please don't hesitate to ask any questions; I am proud of my 100% eBay rating and I want any potential buyer to be confident in bidding. Thank you for your interest!