86 bmw k75c

tharbert · tharbert's Garage

I have a friend who has an 86 BMW K75C under a tarp in his driveway. I rode past his house yesterday and noticed the tarp was off the bike. We chatted at a party last night about it and it seems his wife is getting tired of it being in the driveway.

Well, I get an email from him today saying I could have it for $500. He believes the fuel pump is bad but otherwise, it's in good shape. My guess is that it would need the pump, tires, oil change, tune-up, and a thorough cleaning.

I know nothing about these bikes but I am rather handy. I wouldn't be looking to restore it as they apparently aren't worth that much.

What are the common issues? What should I look for?

ShakinJoe · 12-15-2012, 05:22 PM

You are right. They can be more costly to fix. I have a friend locally who has done about 20 of these so for him it is easy as her builds it all from engine to transmission. If you have to tackle this for the first time or pay for mechanics you will get upside down quickly.

Let me know which way you go as my friend might look at it if you pass.

tharbert · tharbert's Garage

Pulled the trigger... I now have my KLR 650 up for sale.

Once I saw this thing up close, I got the bug.

VincentVega · 03-07-2013, 10:02 AM

Good luck, I've always liked those. Any info on the klr?

mikeferg75 · mikeferg75's Garage

My first bike, loved it.

Get it running and should be quick flip if miles are low. Buddy just offered me his 90 with 10k miles, I passed and kinda regret it.

You can always hear one coming, have a distinct chiping sound.

tharbert · tharbert's Garage

Just posted the klr on craigslist locally. Started high, would take $2.5k. Same bikes on fleabay seem to be just a bit more...

304065 · 03-07-2013, 10:37 AM

Did an 86 have ABS?

tharbert · tharbert's Garage

AFAIK, no ABS.

Thanks, NotaBRG.

tharbert · tharbert's Garage

Update: A mechanic I know that has an older beemer basically suggested I pass. I was under the impression I could muddle through a good tune-up and rebuild or replace the fuel pump. He assured me these bikes are not simple DIY machines. The fuel system is complicated, expensive to repair, and requires a slew of tools I don' t have. And, it has 65k miles on the clock. In addition, this was gonna be on top of my 911 project. DANG! Still gonna sell my 650 enduro though...

ShakinJoe, give me your friend's info and I'll pass it on. I think the first $500 would get it. It looks really good. I saw a little corrosion that I assume is from the battery but otherwise it was very clean with no dents or obviuos flaws. Exterior just needs a good detainling. I could probably take more pics.