Starting a '68 R50/2

Single & twin cylinder model BMW Airhead specific discussions
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r67boxer
Posts: 36
Joined: Tue Jan 30, 2024 9:11 am

Starting a '68 R50/2

Post by r67boxer »

As background, I have a some experience starting earlier twins and single cylinder BMWs, so not a newbie. My latest addition to the stable is a very recently overhauled R50/2. Once 'tickled' it starts easily. Usually no more than 2 or 3 kicks. What's different is that it doesn't settle down until completely warmed up. After about a minute or so I can ride it but it continues (for a short while) to cough, sputter, and often backfire a couple of times. Once fully warm it's a thing of beauty to ride. Pulls strong and is a joy to ride. Am I missing something in the adjustment of the carbs, timing or valves?

Kevin
Kurt in S.A.
Posts: 1666
Joined: Tue Aug 03, 2010 12:08 pm

Re: Starting a '68 R50/2

Post by Kurt in S.A. »

r67boxer wrote: Mon Apr 14, 2025 10:00 amAm I missing something in the adjustment of the carbs, timing or valves?
Probably IMO. Sounds like you need to start over and redo them. Carb synch is important as well. Do you have the original coil? A solid state coil might help things, although mostly the older coils makes things harder to start.

Kurt
r67boxer
Posts: 36
Joined: Tue Jan 30, 2024 9:11 am

Re: Starting a '68 R50/2

Post by r67boxer »

Thanks Kurt. Starting doesn't seem to be the problem. It's just the prolonged warm up. I will go through the process again. Coil I believe is new. I'll get to it after Easter.

Kevin
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