When BMW introduced the R75 as part of the /5 lineup, it was the biggest bike they offered, and the first Beemer bike to be completely manufactured in Berlin. It was also the first bike with a design that no longer focused on sidecar compatibility, gained an electric start, 12V electrical system, coils, and an alternator to complement the reliable motor and 100+ top speed.
The 75 featured a 749cc boxer twin that produced 50 horspower and 43 pound-feet of torque. Plus, usage of plastics instead of metal in certain areas helped reduce weight to 463 pounds. For more on what it’s like to live with a big /5, check out a story on Motorcycle Classics here, where they suggest it’s one of the first sport touring bikes.
This example is VIN: 2975196. The seller acquired it in 2022 from a private party in Los Angeles, California.
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 2,000 miles. The odometer shows 28,435 miles.
“This bike was previously owned by the head janitor of the Los Angeles school district, who used it to ride between schools around the city. He passed away, and the bike sat for about 10 years before I purchased it in 2022. I immediately began a full restoration, including an engine build with 900cc pistons and cylinders, a new timing chain, bottom end inspection, new con rod bearings, a lightened flywheel, crank-fired electronic ignition, a rebuilt 4-speed transmission with kickstart, and a replaced final drive with a 32/10 unit with new splines. The bike also received fresh paint and powder coating, stainless steel headers, rebuilt petcocks, rebuilt carbs, new bearings and seals, new spokes, Koni shocks (working great), and a serviced speedometer.”
“I built this motorcycle for myself, intending to take it on vintage rides. I’m up to 8 BMWs at the moment, plus a few other stragglers, and I find myself reaching for my R100S instead for long distances – the R75 is too nice, and I don’t want to get it dirty or scratched. On top of that, I have a growing family and my wife needs my storage space for an office.
I’ve been building 1970s-era BMW motorcycles as a personal passion for over 22 years. My builds have been featured on the covers of Motorcycle Classics Magazine, BMW ON magazine, and have been written up by BikeExif, Pipeburn, and other outlets around the world. One of my builds currently lives in Monaco, and I personally own and maintain 8 BMW motorcycles. One build was also the very first motorcycle featured on Petrolicious, in a video called “Airhead Revival.” Airhead Revival” I’m also sponsored by Oshmo and collaborate on their parts offerings and design.”
Maintenance:
“I have receipts for the engine build components, transmission seals and bearings, an email confirming the speedometer rebuild, and photos of the lightened flywheel, crank-fired ignition, new final drive splines, and other odds and ends from the build. The engine and transmission work was completed by a word-of-mouth mechanic who also builds engines and transmissions for Roughchild.”
Mechanical Issues:
“Side stands are notoriously useless on BMWs, and this one leans a bit more than most. I can source and install a used Brown’s sidestand at the buyer’s expense if they’d like one – probably around $150. The neutral light is also a bit dim, even after trying both an incandescent bulb and an LED.”
Modifications:
Not pictured: 900CC pistons and cylinders, lightened flywheel, crank fired electronic ignition.
Stainless steel headers.
Renthal handlebars.
Bar end mirrors.
Koni shocks.
Custom solo seat that fits with original seat hinges and lock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT46 tires from 2025.
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:
“Small knick of paint on tail light. Small knick of paint under tank near petcock. Powder coat imperfections on controls. Rims are not perfect but adequate.”
“There’s a photo of the small nick of paint by left side petcock. To the right of that are subtle clear coat drips in paint still.
The right side controls photo shows a bit of the imperfection due to powder coating.
There is a tool tray included however the rear of the tray is cracked. It could be JB welded, or removed and still maintain it’s function under the seat.”
Currently located in Ventura, California, this BMW is offered on a clean California title with registration currently on Planned Non-Operation.
Have any R75/5 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
