What is it about the R65?

[daveco2]

This topic may have been done before, but I'd really like to know why the R65 has such a loyal following? Is it the nostalgia, the look, the ride? For me, I'd like to try it just to see what it's like riding an air head, my first BMW.

Thanks,

Dave

[Bob_Roller]

I don't think it's just the R65, most of the older airhead bikes have a loyal following as well.

Some of the attraction could be the reliability of the machine, ease of working on them, not seeing them on the street that much, unique classic looking and sounding.

[msbuck]

For me, I really like the uniqueness of this bike, even within the BMW bikes.  I like to have something that not everyone and their brother has as well.  You get lots more looks and questions - therefore more chance to meet different people.  Y B Normal?  

Having now owned an Italian beast, I have to say that the ease of maintenance factor and reliability of these R65s rate VERY HIGH on my list of what I appreciate about this bike!

[MrRiden]

For me a combination of reliability, price and uniqueness. I basically pulled a tarp off mine after it sat for 3 years changed the fluids and tires and rode it up the California coast. Weather I stop and park with the sport bike kids, the Wisconsin lawn tractor crowd or next to an elderly couple at a roadside attraction people seem intrigued by this little bike.
rich

[tagordon]

I especially appreciate how easy it to bump start.
Having issues with an electrical concern currently and as long as I can roll it a few feet and get it to fire. Well that allows me to continue to focus on its big brother the R100 Cafe bike.
Which I currently have in a state of ....
as Tony would say "Almost in bits".
The R65 sat outside for 5 years without sarting & did not take very much to get back on the road. The R65 was my first Beemer, now I am hooked.
Troy

PS. Airheads & boxers in general are just plain amazing.