1973 BMW R-Series

Description

In 1938 BMW built the R-71. During World War II when the Russians invaded Germany, they took over the motorcycle factory. They basically took the design, and made similar bikes such as Dnepr and Ural. Later on, as a gesture of Communist-solidarity, the government of Russia loaded up all the original tooling and molds onto train-cars, and sent it to the People's Republic of China as a gift. Since then, they literally made the Chang Jiang 750 the most common motorcycle on the planet. It's just that they were never sold to the U.S. Market, so most Americans have never even seen nor heard of these machines. Parts are readily available online. Other than a few modernized updates, this is still essentially an exact copy of a 1938 BMW R-71. Updates along the line included hydraulic front disc-brake, electric-start as well as kick-start lever, 12 volt electrical-system, turn-signals, electronic-igniton (versus points & condensor), overhead-valve cylinder-heads (the older ones were flatheads). This one makes 32 horsepower, and is very reliable and road-worthy. It's titled as a 1973, but is actually basically a brand new motorcycle with less than 300 miles on it (465 kilometers). Save for a little surface-rust staining on the exhaust which would clean right up with a little oiled 4-ought steel-wool, the paint and chrome are un-damaged. It has a hand-shifter on the side of the transmission, as well as heel-toe foot-lever on the lower left-side of the 4-speed transmission (with reverse!). It's a wide-ratio geared for the highway, so you don't even really need 4th gear until you're going 45 or 50mph. I think 70mph is about top speed with a sidecar anyway. It would go faster if you detach it, and just ride it as a solo-bike. You can take 2 adult passengers, or 3 kids along with you (see my attached sepia-tone family photo). I've had the dog jump up in the sidecar and ride along, too, and even got her some "doggles" to protect her eyes from bugs! The bike has spring-saddles, dual locking toolboxes, cool little fish-tail dual-exhaust tipped mufflers, polished engine crank-case, and a fair bit of chrome accents & pinstriping. It's a timeless classic good-looking design at a fraction of the cost of an actual vintage BMW (and much more rideable & reliable). I ordered a couple of little round BMW emblems to affix to both sides of the fuel-tank, and will come on the bike at the time of sale. Thanks for looking. Come take a test ride or ask me any questions at 64l 5l2 5229 I've got a good, clear Iowa title for it in my name. Thanks for looking! Jason Stone in Mason City, Iowa
By bidding on, or otherwise agreeing to buy this vehicle, it is acknowledged that it is being sold As Is with no warranty. I require a 0 security deposit within 48 hours of listing's end, and remainder of payment within 10 days whether it's picked up or not yet. Deposits are considered non-refundable. I can store it for a reasonable amount of time, but please ask before bidding. I accept cash if picked up in person, otherwise, a cashier's check or bank wire-transfer if having it shipped. Vehicle will be released upon funds clearing the bank.