New to me 1987. Checks before I ride it?

[CallMeTim]

Hello All,
First post, new member. Bike has 77k. Stock. Good maintenance record. Just inspected here in Massachusetts. Local BMW mechanic can't see it until next week but I'd like to ride it a little (50-100 miles in short rides) before I bring it to him.

Aside from safety checks, checking the oil and tires is there something I should check for to avoid blowing it up? ie "Noisy Johnson Rod means transmission is imploding".

I'm a BMW newb (I had to look up petcock positions to make sure I had it right) but don't hold back. Welcome to my mid-life crisis.

Tim

[Barry]

Welcome Tim,

If it's got a maintenance record and has passed a safety inspection I'd ride it following your basic check on oil levels. I'd include the transmission and final drive levels in that inspection. 

[Tony Smith]

Welcome Tim.

The natives are (mostly) friendly.

Congrats on your bike, but, no photos - it isn't real.


(Post Photos)

[mrclubike]

Pre load the shift lever before pulling in the clutch
And yes the transmission is very clunky and a bit noisy especially before you learn how to shift   

[tiggum]

Learn to ride it without rushing and listen to everything.....shifting, clutch engagement, braking, coasting in neutral, coasting over a speed bump, all that stuff.  Then ask questions.

[Matt Chapter]

There's a wealth of information here about the R65 model, a big thing to know is that as an '87 you have a "monoshock" bike.  From '79 to '84, the R65 and R65 LS had dual shocks.  The motor and most other running gear is very similar, but the frames are slightly different.

If you get a chance, put your model / year / farkle in your signature, so if you have questions we can aim responses in the correct direction.

Additionally, if this is your first motorcycle, or if it's been a while since you've ridden, I highly recommend the MSF motorcycle safety course.