The New And Improved Unofficial R65 Forum V2

Technical Discussion => BMW Technical Q&A, Primarily R65 => Topic started by: G0rd0n on September 13, 2021, 06:05:25 AM

Title: Spoked Wheels
Post by: G0rd0n on September 13, 2021, 06:05:25 AM
Has anyone tried to fit a set of spoked wheels to a 1983 R65.  I know there was a specific set made for ex police bikes but I have a set of wheels of unknown origin.  I know they are not originally from R65 and front is 19” as well.
The hub width for the front is wider than std R65 snowflake cast wheel and before I look at machining what is likely to be 6mm from either sides disk mounting face I am interested in case anyone has done this before.
The spindle and wheel spacers will need modified but this is let of a concern to me.

If the front hub would fit I could either rebuild with 18” rim or just try as 19” and drop forks to compensate .

Otherwise bike remains standard, just I’ve never liked the snowflake wheels.

Thanks
Title: Re: Spoked Wheels
Post by: georgesgiralt on September 13, 2021, 09:50:36 AM
Hello,
I once inquired about this to a French guy making spoked wheels for all airhead bikes.
His answer was that the front hub is very specific of the R65 and no other hub will fit. HE said I had a choice : Either pay a premium to have a set of spoked wheels that fits, or install a front fork from an R80 or R100. And lve with the discrepancy and strange handling it will make (short wheel base with the R80 or R100 angle...)
I declined both and stayed with the snowflake wheels.
Title: Re: Spoked Wheels
Post by: steve hawkins on November 02, 2021, 06:14:04 AM
Any airhead rear wheel will fit an R65.  However the front wheel has to come from an R80ST.  It is what is called a 2 rib hub.

I have a set fitted to mine.  The 'fly in the ointment' is that they are as rare as hens teeth.

Good luck with finding one.

Steve