1973 BMW R 75/5 Black

The R75/5 is considered the first “modern” BMW motorcycle. Now classified as Vintage, Slash 5 models are in high demand — especially ones like this PROJECT BIKE which is in decent overall condition and can be restored without requiring a second mortgage. This respectable fifty-year-old machine is a Short Wheel Base version. It currently starts, runs, shifts, and stops pretty much as it should. In fact, its previous owner rode it to Bob’s to drop it off! Not surprisingly, though, it does need some repairs, some new parts, and some general maintenance to be its best self. That’s why it’s a PROJECT BIKE. But there’s inspiration here: a desirable, “Toaster Tank” R75/5 that will provide riding pleasure and value of ownership in equal amounts. Learn more right now by calling 1-888-269-2627 to speak with one of our Certified Sales Advisors — Jim, Todd, or Kyle.

As with all PROJECT BIKES we want buyers to know as much as possible about the bike before making a purchase. We’ve nothing to hide and our only goal is that each new owner feels they paid fairly and got good VALUE in the deal. We encourage you to schedule a time to meet with one of our advisors and inspect the machine in person to fully understand all the positives as well as the potential downsides involved in the refurbishing process. Please take a moment to learn more about Bob’s PROJECT BIKE program HERE.

This motorcycle has quite a few positives. The tires were replaced in 2020 and still have considerable tread life remaining. The battery is two years old and still strong. The spark plugs and spark plug wires are relatively new, and the engine oil and filter were changed recently. Included with the bike is a Wixom Bros. fairing — period correct — that was a popular accessory for these bikes in the early 70s, and a very nice pair of Krauser saddlebags (these from a later period than the bike).

This PROJECT BIKE’s needs are mostly well within the typical Airhead enthusiast’s mechanical abilities. Sure, you might choose to take the bike completely down for a full, frame-up restoration. But you wouldn’t have to. Its needs could easily be divided into smaller tasks, done as time or motivation allowed, and the bike could be ridden in the meantime. This is a PROJECT BIKE with flexibility!

A list of its maintenance issues: the tachometer is not working, there is rust-through hole on the left muffler, the head pipes are corroded, a valve adjustment is needed, rear shocks should be replaced, and there’s a dent in the front wheel rim. Perhaps the most significant mechanical issue is smoke from the exhaust that indicates burning oil; not severe but noticeable. We did not determine the cause, but it’s something that should be checked sooner rather than later.

Most cosmetic concerns are easy to see by looking at the photos. Rust on the frame and swingarm are the most obvious. Additionally, there is minor damage to the fairing, a crack in the paint on the front fender, a tear in the seat cover, and a chip in one of the tank emblems. The left-side engine emblem, fork lock key, toolbox gasket, and 2 or 3 of the original tools from the kit are missing. Please NOTE: in some of the photos you can see where we cleaned and polished the finish in a few small areas to show what is possible when some careful elbow grease is applied.

If you love classic and vintage Airhead BMWs, and enjoy being involved in their success, it’s hard to imagine a better fit than this PROJECT BIKE. Here’s a happy ending within your reach. Call NOW!