Newbie Here From the UK

[Andyroo]

Hi Folks,

I'd like to introduce myself.

My name's Andy from Scarborough (Home of Oliver's Mount Road racing) North Yorkshire.

I've been a fan of BMW's since 2000 when I bought a 1995 R1100 GS and have had GS's since then. I currently own a 2014 GS Adventure Water Cooled.

I've recently bought a 1986 R65 that has been stood idle since 2003! and plan on restoring it. I'm not sure what I intend for it at the moment, either a sympathetic restoration or a Café Racer conversion???

Anyway, I'm sure I'll be using this form for much needed help and advice!

Cheers,

Andy

[Duane Ausherman]

Hi Andy. Welcome to the "home" by the inmates of Boxerworks.

We promise to treat you well and answer your questions about almost everything. Once we get to know you we will treat you good natured humour and disrespect that is our cultural way. That is how you will know that you are truly accepted.

If we don't know the answer to a BMW question, don't worry, we will just make one up that sounds good.

[Airbear]

Welcome aboard Andy, and congrats on finally getting a proper Airhead.

Be sure to visit BM Bikes and Riders Forum too. It's UK based and some there even write with a Yorkshire accent.
Then there is the ADV Rider > Old's Cool > Airheads forum.

Have fun.

[Rob]

And as the R65 was a bit of an ugly stepchild back in the day (but I loved mine), with a lot of unique features, it has it's own forum:
http://www.bmwr65.org/

But please don't be a stranger here. You won't find a better bunch anywhere.

Welcome!

[Duane Ausherman]

Even when we don't know squat, we will entertain you.

[Major Softie]

Even when we don't know squat, we will entertain you.

Or abuse you.

...or both.

[barryh]

In case you are not aware the post 85 R65's are not the same as the early models. What you have is basically an R80 frame and running gear with a reduced compression R65 engine oh and a much nicer looking tank than the earlier R65's. For completeness there were 3 versions of the R65: 78 -80, 81 -84 and 85 -on and there are a surprising number of detail differences between them. Pays to be aware for spares or just to clarify any advice given.

[Major Softie]

In case you are not aware the post 85 R65's are not the same as the early models. What you have is basically an R80 frame and running gear with a reduced compression R65 engine oh and a much nicer looking tank than the earlier R65's. For completeness there were 3 versions of the R65: 78 -80, 81 -84 and 85 -on and there are a surprising number of detail differences between them. Pays to be aware for spares or just to clarify any advice given.

And, that also means that every part that isn't for the engine will be easier for you to find, both new and used, since the rest of the bike is shared with all the models.

[Rob]

Oops! I missed what year that was!

About the only difference between your R65 and the bigger bikes of similar vintage is engine size.