1961 BMW R-Series

562761

Clear

You're bidding on my 1961 BMW R50/2, Willis VW conversion. I've owned a lot of BMWs and other motorcycles in my life and this one is definitely at the top of my favorites list. The previous owner purchased this machine from a museum 30 years ago. Since then it has been either stored, on display or ridden occasionally for special events. When I bought it, I wanted to ride it, so I cleaned the carb, changed the fluids, and installed a new battery. With hardly any effort, she fired right up and ran beautifully! This is a very exciting motorcycle to ride and it's amazing how well everything works. Apparently people have been doing these conversions since way back, but there was this guy "Willis" who was a true pioneer of the VW-BMW transformation movement. He designed and manufactured all of the necessary parts for the conversion. Back in the day you could just purchase the parts from him and start hacking away in your back yard garden shed, or you could send your bike off to him and he would do it for you. According to the previous owner, this particular bike was done (correctly) by Willis himself. I've included a photo of an article from the magazine that tells a little bit of the Willis and co. story. Again, I was told that Willis is the one who built this bike, but I suppose it's possible that Webley-Vickers, (Doug Whitson) could also have been the creator. I'm not 100% positive and information is very limited. I also don't know if anything has been done to the engine as far as modifications. According to the serial #, it's a 1967 which makes the displacement 1500cc's. The overall condition of this motorcycle: It is probably one of the nicest ones you'll ever find! It's not cosmetically perfect because it hasn't been restored since the conversion. It runs and rides wonderfully for what it is. Shifting is a little clunky but definitely not something that requires any sort of overhaul. It is kick start only and can be a little stubborn if left sitting for long periods or on cold days, but never an issue when it's warm or when you are out riding. All lights work properly. Odometer says approx. 48k mi. This motorcycle is titled, registered, and insured in my name. Truly a very rare and unique bike! I'm sure I've missed a few details so please look at all of the pictures carefully and ask lots of questions before you bid. I am happy to discuss anything relative to this machine by phone if you send your #. Thanks and good luck! IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE ASK BEFORE YOU BID.THIS MOTORCYCLE IS BEING SOLD AS IS WHERE IS.ALL SHIPPING FEES AND ARRANGEMENTS ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.$500 PAYPAL DEPOSIT IS DUE IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING AUCTIONS END.BALANCE IS DUE WITHIN 7 DAYS OF AUCTIONS END, NO EXCEPTIONS!!!I RESERVE THE RIGHT TO END THIS AUCTION AT ANY TIME.