Description
Additional photos of this custom BMW R65LS are available here for your perusal.
The BMW R65LS was designed by the legendary Hans Muth, who produced a sportier spinoff of the 648cc short-stroke airhead with dual-disc front Brembo brakes, a larger rear brake drum, lower handlebars, a triangular fairing, and special wheels and paint schemes. Only 6,389 LS versions were built.
This particular example (VIN: WB1036505D6371108, Engine #: 6371108) underwent a full restoration in 2011, when it had approximately 30,000 miles on the clock. Among the many updates were a rebuilt clutch, a rebuilt transmission, a rebuilt fork, exhaust valve pushrod and spring, and a new right cylinder head.
Topping it all off was an $1,100 Gulf Livery paint job by MetalArt in La Habra, California.
A new, modified seat offers improved comfort, and its paint matches the tank and front fender.
Custom details include Telefix clip-ons, bar-end Kellermann turn signals with black amber lenses, steel braided front brake lines, and a Supertrapp exhaust.
The bike is approximately 20 lbs lighter than stock, due to hardware that was removed during the restoration.
Currently located in Pasadena, California, this BMW is offered with a clean California title. The registration is current through April 2021.
A new battery was installed in July 2019, and the Bing carburetors were rebuilt by Black Kat in October 2019, with larger needle jets better suited to the exhaust. Timing and valves were adjusted at that time, and fresh spark plugs were installed.
Raask rearsets and H-D mirrors are included with the sale.
The sale also includes the owner’s manual.
The only instrumentation is a tachometer. Per the previous owner (noted automotive/motorcycle journalist and all-around good dude Basem Wasef), the mileage is approximately 40,500.
Basem had the bike for approximately one month ago and covered 100 miles on it – he stated “I love the bike, but don’t have room for it” and notes that “I imagined keeping it for longer, but realize I simply don’t have time to enjoy it as it should be enjoyed.” We ended up acquiring it from him to utilize in our upcoming rental program, however we have 90+ bikes arriving soon and we need to clear up some space!
Cosmetically, there is a small nick on the top of the front fender, as well as some small irregularities on the blacked-out portions of the engine.
Mechanically, Basem noted that you may get a false neutral if “if the shift lever is not pushed aggressively enough. I’m told this is typical of BMW’s four-speeds of the era.” Otherwise, “this bike needs nothing; it starts easily and runs strongly, living up to airheads’ reputation for bulletproof reliability.”
Have any R65 stories or questions about the listing? Let us know in the comments below!
