This well-sorted solid runner started life as a 1978 BMW R100/7. I am the third owner and have had it since 2002. It was a filthy rat when I bought her with a non-functional center stand, leaking front master cylinder and leaking everywhere else. It included a poorly painted engine, rusted tank, and in overall decrepitude.

Under my ownership, it has undergone a frame-up restoration / modification. This now solid running motorcycle has always been garaged since I owned it. I recently rode up to San Jose from Los Angeles and back with no problems. It’s mostly original.

The bike is not pristine as it is 40 years old. It leaks a little oil but otherwise in good running condition. I like my things with a bit of patina so it shows its age a bit. This is not a show bike, but a daily runner. It has no problems starting. Work done on the bike includes:

Frame, parts, and original special edition snowflake wheels have been powder coated.
It has a new AGM battery and new tires.
Rebuilt transmission with new seals and bearings.
Rebuilt front brake caliper with new piston and pads.
Has new clutch cable, points, voltage regulator, clutch plate and more.
New Stainless hardware
New headlight
New Woodcraft clip-on bars
Bobbed original exhaust

One item that does need some work is the Motogadget tiny speedometer. It’s currently not registering the correct speed. One of the contacts has come off the front wheel and there’s electrical interference from the spark plug cables. That will need to be repaired / replaced.

Old BMW’s are the best. They’re incredibly reliable and will run forever if routinely maintained. They were designed for the owner to be able to work on them with ease. The horizontally opposed twin engine is easy to access. It’s also very easy to get new parts for this bike if you need them from sites such as Irv Seaver or A&S Cycles. I’ve had many happy memories with her but changing life circumstances require adaptation. I’m happy to pass this on to someone else to create new memories with.

If you’re the lucky winner, I’ll go over with you the starting sequence, tips on routine maintenance, types of oil to use, and anything and everything you’ll need to keep this baby running tip top. It doesn’t take much. I will include a battery tender, original tool kit, and other spare parts. She’s tuned and ready to rip.


Price: Auction

More info: Listing has ended. Click to search on eBay for similar 1978 BMW R Series (Affiliate link)

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States