History
Bought the R65LS in the early 2000's after owning an original back in the early 80s and loved it. Rode it for a while, then discovered shiny new toys, so it was relegated to the back of the garage for quite a few years. Eventually, it was uncovered and I realised that the frame was in less than showroom condition and if I didn't do something with it a great old bike would be lost. SO, to cut a very long story short ... full strip down to frame for removal of all extraneous bits and brackets and a bead blast, primer and new BMW henna red 2 pack paint. Many late nights, weekends, soem custom bits, much hand polishing of almost 40 year old engine and gearbox cases, swearing, skinned knuckles and drinking of beer, and we arrived at something that runs, handles, stops and looks just like a brand new bike. It's a pleasure to ride. Couldn't be happier, and it gets ridden!
Modifications
The fundamental mechanicals were all good. On reassembly it received all new bearings (wheels, swing arm, steering, etc). New clutch and rear main seal, final drive gaskets & seals etc. New master cylinder, front discs and, after much fault finding, a few electrical components. Custom bits are:
BMW henna red frame (original bike had henna red paint with a black frame so I've reversed them). The custom pinstriping (real pinstripes) on the tank is my design. The paint on the tank, guards etc is a Harley colour called Black Pearl. The rest (wheels, engine covers starter cover etc) is in satin black and works really well.
Front guard has been cut down to suit the style. The tank is from a mid-80's monoshock R80 requiring custom mounts. Staintune powder coated mufflers were added. Generic satin black headlight with Max blade CNC brackets. Tarozzi clip ons. Raask rearsets. Custom seat and pod which hides a hand made battery box and battery. Gauges are Acewell 2853, all in one pod. Tail piece is a Ninja Star from Ellespeed. Rear lights are tiny but super bright LED units from the USA.
All seems to work very well together.
