Thinking of a k75

[Bokobob]

Yo from North,  Carolina, and this is geezer Bob, a 1936 model...

A month ago I had three bikes and a trike...Now down to just one bike, a V4 Honda Magna cruiser....505 lbs, dry....low weight is important to me.

I am checking around for a good used K75, and do not want the one with the big fairing on the front, due to weight (strength issue for me and potential for too much heat). 

From what it looks like, these bikes go forever with regular maintenance.

If there are any specific years of the K75 to avoid for one reason or another please let me know..
Or for that matter, any other comments to enlighten me on these bikes, please advise..

Thank you,

Bob, Gastonia, North Carolina..

[Scott_]

I've not owned a K75 yet either, but if I were to look for one I would try to find one as new as possible. I think they were sold here in the states till early mid 90's.

[johnny]

since i am returning to the flatt land and will be doing more 1up than 2up... my next motobrick will be the last model year of the k75 standard... simply a 1995 k75...

j o

[Elipten]

Sold 85 to 95 last years I think 93 to 95 had 50 amp alternator vs. the 32 amp alternator.  First year had slightly more hp as I recall.  Lube of driveshaft, and transmission splines is critical.  There are low seat models if that is important to you.  I own an RT model, full fairing, and it is hot and top heavy.   As I am getting older I will look to lower it in coming years.

Put in Eastern Beaver headlight relay kit.  Also consider Euromotoelectrics cable upgrade kit. And add to that a larger cable from the alternator to the battery.

The record holder I have heard is 650,000 miles not cracking the engine open.  Local dealer tell me the have a customer with 425,000 miles engine not cracked open. 

Very smooth engine.  Some say best bike BMW built.

I replaced shock with a Weber and it is a world of difference.

[K75RT Keith]

The only K75 to avoid is one that has not been maintained. Age and mileage should be less of a concern.  Splines are the only real big issue and that only comes into play if they weren't done regularly.  The 50amp alternator is a help if you're running extra driving lights and heated gear.  Driving lights, extra marker lights & heated grips but no heated riding gear on mine with the 32 amp alternator and haven't had any issues.  If you find one, check the crankcase vent hose (Z shaped) on the backside of the motor near the fuel rail for cracks (near the ends usually).  Inexpensive part but screws up the idle and economy and usually good for a few extra bucks off the price.   

The K75, K75C & T and possibly the K75S would be the best choices. based on your comments.

[WayneDW]

Welcome Bob.  Have fun shopping.  I think you are making a good choice.

[Bokobob]

Well, I forgot that I had started this thread (I am 77 years old) the other day and now am zeroing in on a 1986 model with 70k miles and it looks good...I posted a note this morning on the mechanical forum, not remembering that I started this one the other day...anyway, thnks for comments...as to wimpy electrical capability, I don't use any extras to speak of such as heated gloves or clothing, heated grips, etc., etc....

anyway, anything really glaringly "bad" on a 1986?
Thnk you.
Bob

[roninvt]

I wouldn't call the 32 amp system wimpy, you just have to mindful of how you accessorize.  I have a 1990 K75 and run heated grips, a powerlet rapidfire jacket and denali D2 auxillary lights (led) simultaneously with no problem. 

[Elipten]

Yep 32 amp is more than my new Honda has but it is not a touring bike that people tend to use heated clothes on.

[Bokobob]

Anyway, I bought it today and rode it home about 50 miles...it ran nice....I don't know how to upload photos yet...
Front tire was manufactured in 04 and is no where near worn out, so obviously it hasn't been ridden all that much in ten years...Odometer is busted at 33K....seller said he only put 1500 on bike since the break....Need a new Aftermarket windshield for sure..very nice corbin seat...I'll be changing out front tire asap due to age...I am unable so far to get it on the center stand (77 years old...must be getting frail.)

Anyway it is a nice bike...

Regards,

Bob

[roninvt]

Sounds Great Bokobob!!!    The key to getting it up onto the center stand is to step-down firmly/puts lots of weight on the stand while pulling Back, not up on the handle.  Once you get the hang of it, it is pretty slick!!  can't wait for pix.
 

[Bokobob]

Thanks for tip on centerstand function..I was pulling up...I'll change that..If still unable, then I will go to the gym regularly adn get toned up..

Today I just got back from a short ride around what I call my country loop....curves, mild hills, straightaways, it has it all and yet I am back home in 20 minutes...was starting to sprinkle so I didn't push my luck and just went around ones....

Today I was more fully aware of the smoothness and quickness of the K75....I heard it smooth, but this bike feels like silk...It is also very tight and feels new......

Thanks again to all for tips and welcome...

Grace + Peace

Bob

[vintagemilano]

If the rear shock is a lowered or broken or something else that makes it less than normal ride height then getting it up on the center stand can be very hard.

[Bokobob]

Rear shock is a nearly new progressive one...still have not mastered getting it up on the center stand...I belong to a gym but am beginning I am actually going to have to go there????