Debuting in 1978, BMW’s midsize boxer offering of the time was the R65. In a comprehensive story published in December of 1978, Cycle World opened things up with: “After years of ever-larger engines and innovations for the top-of-the-line BMWs. the R65 is smaller, lighter, more versatile, better handling and more fun than any of its larger brothers. It looks different, acts different, is different.”
Period reviews praised the weight (455 pounds), its willingness to rev compared to bigger boxers, and and the ease of use thanks to a traditionally-reliable drivetrain, shaft drive, 5.8 gallon gas capacity, thoughtful center stand, easy to remove rear wheel, and other features we don’t see praised in modern reviews…
Cycle World ended their review with: “for the rider who demands the best of two worlds—sporting and heavy touring capability—and who wants a simple, lightweight. extensively-detailed, traditional motorcycle, the R65 is ready and waiting. It’s just a matter of paying the price..”
Our friends at the Gilmore Car Museum are changing up their collection and offering some motorcycles here on Iconic Motorbikes with no reserve. All proceeds of the auction sales on their end will go towards construction and rehabilitation of their museum. Go check them out if you’re in the area (Hickory Corner, Michigan) as through April 2026 they have an exhibit that honors the centennial anniversary of the Chrysler brand and one of the features is a 2003 Dodge Tomahawk motorcycle, a concept bike noted for its use of a Dodge Viper V10 engine!
This example is VIN: 6380082. The bike came from a collection in Florida and was donated to the museum in 2021.
During their ownership, the museum has covered one mile with the bike. The odometer shows 28,798 miles.
Maintenance:
“The bike has been gone through to make it mechanically sound. It is in original condition.”
Modifications:
Leather travel bags.
Progressive Suspension shocks.
“Seat looks too new so it is probably aftermarket.”
Battery tender lead.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Continental tires from 2014.
The sale includes 1 ignition key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Hickory Corners, Michigan, this BMW is offered on a clean Michigan title. Have any R65 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
