1966 BMW R-Series

641189

Clear

If you’re looking at this ad, you probably know a lot about the history of the famed R-Series, sometimes referred to as “/2s” or “slash 2s”, so I won’t bore you with too much history, or try to show off my BMW degree in motorcycology. The R50’s classic styling, silky smooth performance, especially with the Earles Forks, has made them the target of collectors worldwide. In 1955 road test, The Motor Cycle said:" Road Behavior of the R50 is extremely gentlemanly. Indeed, it is difficult to visualize a machine of conventional conception being more smooth, quiet, comfortable and clean to ride.” They were the choice of the German police force for years, so apparently their balance of performance and comfort made them the ideal machine. The legendary "Earles" front forks are a design that prevents dipping on braking. Similarly, their geometry make them perfect for sidecar applications...and this bike was built with that in mind as you will see from the factory mounting stalk for a sidecar. The plunger style rear shocks are easy to adjust and contribute to the Cadillac smooth ride. This bike is equipped with the original frame mounted tire pump along the top tube. This example is an original, unrestored survivor in astounding condition. It was sparingly but regularly used by its last loving owner, which may explain its superb operating condition. It is collector quality as a survivor, and the head badge number matches the frame number and engine number. The bike features the highly desirable and attractive 6.5 gallon gas tank, which extends the cruising range of the R50 to 300 miles! The rub is that the bike is so comfortable and reliable, that you could probably do it without refueling or replacing your buttocks. This bike also comes with the interesting period accessories such as a black fairing with new Lexan screen and saddle bags with brackets wired with extra running lights. These have been removed for my style of local riding, but attach in minutes, and are in mint condition. The bike is also wired for handle bar turn signals (to be installed), which are available from airhead specialists in the original Hella brand ($200) or inexpensive knock-offs ($40). I just added a Brown side stand ($200, no modifications were required), which is extremely easy to operate from the saddle for easy mounting/dismounting. It also provides a degree of extra security over the original side stand (which is still in place). The center stand works as it should for longer storage. One caveat: The brakes operate as designed, but the factory advice in the day for braking was to downshift and brake. This is fine for a planned stop, but for an emergency, and to keep up with today’s modern automotive brakes which stop on a proverbial dime, I would recommend (and will if I keep the bike) switching to a softer compound brake pad material (available from most airhead specialists). They reportedly transform the braking performance of the bike if you plan to use it daily in traffic. They may not last as long as the originals, but you will. I am happy to answer questions about the bike by email at michaefracz@gmail.com or by cell phone at 347 585 4200.