Please note: This bike does not run. As such, there is no cold start video.
Back in the late 70s and early 80s, BMW had begun to move away from its trademark boxer engine. The Japanese competition was dominating the market with its efficient inline fours, and the horizontally-opposed twin was proving a little long in the tooth. Accordingly, BMW released its own water-cooled triples and fours in the form of the K75 and the K100.
While this allowed the German brand to close the gap on the likes of Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha, the boxer fan base remained steadfast in its loyalty. And for good reason — BMW had been making incremental improvements to the bikes since the series’ introduction.
Alongside the top-of-the-line R100, BMW also introduced the R80/7, a road-going adaptation of its venerable G/S, and a successor to the R75/7. Powered by an air-cooled 797cc Boxer twin, it reportedly made around 50 horsepower at 6,500rpm and 42.8lb-ft of torque at 4,000rpm. Though it wasn’t an especially lightweight machine at 456lbs, it proved exceptionally well-balanced and versatile. As Cycle World said in its period review: “When you light these things up it’s generally to go somewhere in style, in comfort, and rapidly. Zoom. Graded by this standard, the R80 is very much in the Beemer tradition.”
Manufactured July 1977, this example is VIN: 6122599. The seller states, “My father got it for his 10th anniversary present from my mother in 1978. He died in 1993 and it’s been with me since.”
The odometer shows 57,559 miles. During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 100 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller states the bike has not been started in 20 years.
Modifications:
“Tank has relatively recent paint – 15 years ago? No gas cap or roundels.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Metzeler tires which have aged out.
The sale includes one key, bodywork, tools, various parts, new gas cap and key, and service manuals.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Brooklyn, New York, this BMW is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any R80/7 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
