1969 BMW R-Series

665681

Clear

For your consideration, my 1969 BMW R69US. This machine is in original, unrestored condition and is in full running order. Part of a large collection for many years, this bike has only covered 17,437 miles. The frame, ID plate and engine numbers all match and are correct for a 1969 model. The original paintwork shines very nicely and looks extremely good overall. It is not perfect; plenty of small marks, scrapes and dents have been accumulated over the past 46 years so please study the photographs very carefully. The main imperfections are:- A light 1" scratch on the front fender, along with several small stone chips. Light rust on the lower edge of the rear fender, along with some missing pin striping. The paint on the top of the rear fender has considerable wear from the springs of a previously-fitted dual seat. These are partly hidden by the rear luggage rack. Both rear suspension covers have one or two minor scratches, from carrying luggage or passengers. The gas tank has a small 1/4" dent on the left-hand side, immediately above the rear edge of the knee grip. The top of the tank has a small 1/8" dent and three 1/2" scratches. The right hand side has a small mark above the roundel. The frame has numerous minor chips or wear marks from mounted accessories or general use. Both silver hubcaps have some minor surface rust or discoloration. In my opinion, none of these are serious and the overall impression is of a very well cared-for motorcycle. But everyone has their own opinion, so please view all the photographs and decide for yourself. The chrome headlight rim has a small scrape, pictured. Recent renovation includes: professionally re-polishing both alloy rims and re-spoking the wheels with stainless steel spokes. The bike has the low 'European' handlebars with all new cables and the controls operate smoothly and correctly. Both brakes have been serviced and work correctly; the front brake is especially powerful. The suspension is smooth and comfortable with no leaks, rattles or wear. All the lights work correctly, including the instrument lights and all warning lights. The battery is about one year old but has not lasted well, because the bike is ridden rather infrequently. The bike has a correct set of Continental tires, which has plenty of tread but have significant cracking, especially on the front. I have ridden about 250 miles without any problems, but only at moderate speeds around town. A new set of tires is essential if you plan to do anything more than that. The motor starts with one or two kicks and runs very nicely, with absolutely no smoke or unusual mechanical noise. On the road, the bike pulls strongly and the gear shift is unusually smooth and quiet (and far better than my 1973 R60/5). The bike has not been tested at high speed or on long distances, but I have no reason to suspect any issues, although a service might be advisable. The petcock has been replaced by a reproduction Everbest, which does not leak but becomes extremely stiff to operate when left standing for a while. I suspect that a replacement Karcoma petcock would be a better solution. The inside of the gas tank is in very good condition, with the original red lining still present and no sign of any rust. The Bing carbs are correct for the bike - numbered 1/26/91 and 1/26/92 - and were recently cleaned and serviced. New fuel lines and external filters are fitted. A new washable air filter element was recently installed, along with the correct new spark plugs and caps. The correct large-bore exhaust system is fitted; genuine NOS parts fitted about 5 years ago. No scratches, dents or rust, just the usual discoloration on the headers. The center stand operates smoothly and correctly. The side stand seems to require a new bolt to hold it firmly against the frame stop. The bike has an Alabama Registration in my name but NO Title, as Alabama does not issue Titles for vehicles older than 1975. The bike will be sold with the current Registration Document and a Bill of Sale, which can be notarized if required. Please check with your State to verify that this will be sufficient before bidding. Personal inspection is encouraged and recommended. Please ask if you have any questions or need additional, specific photographs. Please note that the mileage may increase very slightly, as the bike is still being ridden from time to time. All shipping arrangements are to be made by the purchaser; I can assist with loading but you must make all the arrangements. For shipping quotations please use the ZIP code 36607. I can provide secure, dry storage for the bike after purchase for about 3 weeks if necessary. Any buyers with fewer than 10 positive feedbacks must contact me directly, otherwise your bid may be deleted. International buyers are welcome, but please contact me first to discuss payment and shipping. If I am satisfied that you are able to manage both, you will be added to the bidders list. I apologize for any inconvenience, but have wasted too much time dealing with buyers who have no idea how to manage this complex process.