Oh Knowledgeable Ones,

I would like your thoughts on converting a 1973 R75/5 into a more enduro based adventure bike.

Thoughts on getting the bike a little higher off the ground, pipes up higher and getting the air intake higher, heavier suspension, bigger bore, etc.

OK - you may be thinking why? Is this guy an idiot (maybe)? There are newer better simpler bikes that already designed for this (1200 Adventure / F650 Dakar).

Here's the reason and purpose I seek the Holy Grail.

In 2006 I broke the TransAmericas World Record (Prudhoe Bay, USA to Usuaia, Argentina (see 34 for 40 - Benefitting the Pat Tillman Foundation)) on a fantastic BMW F650 Dakar. As much as l love that Dakar, I had a few Gremlins in the electronics.

My next journey is not going to be a race. It is going to be an adventure between me, my bike, and the (on and off) road. I want a bike that I personally rebuild over the next 12 months, with few electronics, very dependable, lighter weight than a GS 1200, road serviceable and worldwide parts friendly.

This has led me to the 1973 R75/5. I am told it is loyal, sturdy, and easier to work on than the Dakar. It also is close to the same HP and just a little heavier. However, a huge safety and environmental advantage of the Dakar was its tall seat and height.

I know there are old BMW experts on this forum. And I am also sure that BMW's of this age had to be modified by some of you over the years.

I seek those gurus who are willing to share their stories on such things as how they swapped the front end out of one of these bikes and made it an off road racer or equipped it with gear to make it a deep water crosser, or converted it to accept matching tire sizes on front and back.

Seeking your advice / opening myself up to ridicule,


Dave
nineosixdave
(my name)@34for40.com