R65 Bike but no keys

[tones]

Hi guys, it looks like I am going to be buying a 1984 R65 in the next few days as a project. Lots of things that I will be looking for advice on over the coming months as it needs work.

First question. It has no keys. What is the best way to deal with this? Do you change the barrels in the various locks (there are three aren't there?). Is there an easier way? Can I bypass the ignition key for the short-term?

[rl900]

I would try your dealer first.  Take your title and registration papers with you along with the code number on the lock.  Alternatively, remove the ignition switch and take it to a good locksmith he may be able to remove the tumbler and make a key to fit.

Ron L

[Danie]

My R65's ignition switch has been replaced about 2 years ago - by the retired Bmw mechanic, who does most repairs on my R65.

He replaced the original ignition switch with a Suzuki switch (I do not know from which model) - simply because it was far cheaper.......

[Bob_Roller]

For the short term, you can by-pass the ignition switch, there are 4 wires on the switch, one is red that is 12 vdc+ from the battery, if you can connect a toggle type switch or any other switch that you may have, a 12 vdc rated switch is probably the better choice though.

Connect the red wire to one terminal of the switch, and then the other 3 to the other terminal in some jury rigged fashion, and when you turn the switch on, you should have a functioning bike.

You'll need to insulate the bare electrical connections, some heatshrink tubing, or at least electrical tape.

I would suggest removing the positive lead from the battery before attempting this, as the red wire is always 'hot', has power to it all of the time.

[Lowen]

My 84 did'nt have a key when I got it. I called a locksmith and for $50 he made me a key in about 5min. using nothing but a blank, a file, and a block of graphite. It would have only cost $25 if I had been able to truck the bike to his shop. Of course after spending the fifty bucks the guy I got the bike from found the keys the next day.

[drewboid]

three keys is right - and adding the switch as described will allow the bike to run without a key. The seat lock can be removed easily. Take it to the locksmith and he can make a key. The Volvo blank will fit if he doesn't have an exact replacement. The ignition switch can also be easily removed if you have to. the only one that is a problem is the fork lock. However, I have had a locksmith pick that one.

Drew Daniels
R60/2 - LS200
R75/6
R65
R1100R

[Justin B.]

Volvo blank!!??  A Beemer key doesn't look anything like the keys for any of MY Volvos!  

[drewboid]

Yes a Volvo blank! check out:
http://www.w6rec.com/duane/bmw/keys/index.htm
I use one on my R65. - you may need to file down the projecting nib depending upon the individual bike.

[Justin B.]

That must be for a really old Volvo.  All of the 240 series I have had/have use a double sided key...