Re: 1987 K75C

[Bokobob]

Question:  my 1987 K75C has handlebars that are pretty far forward...I have a spare set of more "cruiser like" bars that came with the bike.  The seller told me they were once installed on this very bike and he did not have to change any cables, etc., when he went to the more forward bars that are on it once....I tried to contact him on this issue but he has not responded yet.......Does anybody know if the stock hose from brake reservoir near right handgrip to the steering stem comes in more than one length?  The hose on the bike presently looks like it might be long enough to fit the "cruiser" type bars  but if not, I'd like to know if longer hoses for this purpose are available...thank you.  Dumb question, I suppose but I need to know...

Grace + Peace

Bob

[Motorhobo]

When I replaced my old brake lines with steel Spieglers the sales rep had me measure the length of the original lines. Spiegler sells different length lines based on the handlebar type. So I'd say it is an issue ... Before replacing the bars you'd want to measure the existing lines to determine whether they're long enough to accommodate the increased bar height.

But I think it's equally important to find out how old the existing brake lines are. 4 years is the recommended replacement interval. A buddy of mine had his brakes lock up in a curve because interior of the rubber lines had started to shed and a flake blocked up the line. I replaced with Spieglers and ride with mich more confidence. If your brake lines are old, this would be a good time for an upgrade.

My $0.02...

Van

[TimTyler]

You probably have "S" bars. The K75C came with "C" bars.

I've switched my bike's handlebars from C to S and back to C and did not need to change any cables or hoses. You may need to remove any zip-ties that wrap the brake hose onto the bike's frame, or loosen and slightly re-position the brake hose where it connects to the master cylinder. Be careful not to over-tighten that or you will strip the delicate threads.

Do your best to keep the master cylinder upright and elevated during the bar swap so that you don't get air in your brake line.

The large "RT" bars require longer cables and hoses.

Any local brake shop will probably be able to make you a fresh hose from parts on hand. Just bring them the old hose.

[Bokobob]

Thank you for replies..The bars I plan to have put on are the RT bars, identical to the ones for sale for $50 on the WTB and WTS section of the forum...

The present tube/hose is 230 mm long.....The guy at BMW thought they would fit but I am guessing the existing rubber tubing is very old, so I will upgrade to a fresh tube....
Again, thanks,
Grace + Peace

Bob

[TimTyler]

Moving to the RT bars means you will also need new throttle cable, clutch cable and choke cable.

Those don't last forever either, so new cables are a good idea. Keep the cables as backups. Store the old clutch cable on the bike in case the installed one breaks. It won't fit well, but it will work.

[Bokobob]

Thank you, Tim.

Grace +Peace

bob