Going to look at a 1979 R65-- any tips?

[ekimyar]

I'm thinking about buying a 1979 R65 that was "rebuilt", used for 4-6k miles, and has now sat for about 8 years. It supposedly starts and runs "great" (like all used bikes )

I'm new to BMWs, any advice on particular things to look for? Anything that is indicative of further problems down the road?

Thanks very much-- my current ride is a 1979 Honda CX500; they have a great forum and support system. I was happy to see the R65 has something similar!

[Lucky_Lou]

Depending on what mileage its advertised with the general condition of the seat and footrests will tell you if its been to the moon...
If its been stood for 8 years the front brakes will probably have deteriorated the rear ones should be ok mine was stood 10 years before i rebuilt it (was it stored dry?) if the engine is running have a listen to it and expect plenty of valve lash as the clearances will need to be reset. You may get it to tick over but be prepared to do a full rebuild on the carbs anyway and change all the drive train fluids and engine oil if you buy it.Does it have a stainless steel exhaust if not keep an eye out for a replacement system before long, welcome to the forum hope that helps.
Lou

[montmil]

1979s have a points ignition system. 81s and on have a stone-age electronic ignition. Both have there good and not so points.

The Bing CV float bowls are easily removed. Check for debris, varnish, bad floats, dirt, etc. Could be a clue. Fuel tank is bound to need a good flush and check for rust...ugh. Fuel lines will need replacing as well as adding an in-line fuel filter.

Battery is likely toast. Check oil in engine, transmission, drive shaft and final drive before motoring off.

Lots of airhead riders in your area. Encourage yo uto vist the local BMW emporiums and get a couple leads on owners who may be willing to trade a hamburger lunch for assisting you in a pre-buy inspection.

Welcome to our funny farm.

Monte

[Blackjack]

Holes rusted in the pushrod tubes?

Or is that just mine?

I'd guess that because they make stainless ones then no it's not.

But it will mean gaskets and so on....

[montmil]

Idle for eight years in a salt environment. I'm thinking the pushrod tubes rusted from the outside due to condesation collection over many years.

You'll need new tube grommets and cylinder head gaskets. Possibly rocker box gaskets. And a torque wrench. Cross your fingers you can get the exhaust header nuts off without destroying the threads on the cylinder heads. Special tool for that job, too.

Old motorcycles and new dollars...

Monte