Question on R60/2 front fork

[CTHalk]

I have the opportunity to buy a 1964 R60/2. Its history is murky as far as crash damage. It has the front fork that has a rounded (verses flattened on the back side) bottom cross brace. My BMW guide tells me they went to a flattened fork brace in the 1961 models. If the fork was replaced due to prior damage, what is the likelyhood that the frame is tweaked, and how can I determine if the frame is tweaked? Will a test ride be sufficient, along with a visual inspection? Where are the 'hot spots' to look for frame damage? Finally, will having the wrong year fork affect resale value down the road if I have to sell it? Thanks for any input!

[DarrylRi]

There were three different braces along the back of the Earles fork: rounded, somewhat flattened, and very flattened. I don't think the rounded form was phased out until 1963, and right after that the R69Ses and eventually, all of the bikes, started coming with a bulged front engine cover, which provided room for the vibration damper.

There should be at least an inch of clearance between the brace and the front cover on all bikes. If it's closer than that, it would be cause for concern about how straight the bike is.

Duane Ausherman (http://www.w6rec.com) has a page on how a /2 bike should handle.

[CTHalk]

Well, I drove a long way to see the bike in person. I asked before leaving if it was matching numbers, and was assured it was. Well, two out of three matched. The head badge and motor numbers match (a 1965?) R60/2. However, the frame number was different, and showed it to be an R50 frame. It had an early Earls fork on it. The gas filler neck on the tank was pushed in a little. I was not happy to have made such a long drive (crawl actually, on 95 through NY and Garden State parkway) to see a 'put-together'. Aarrggh. So, if anyone ever asks about matching numbers, ask if ALL THREE numbers (frame neck, head badge and motor) match, and are original stampings (not re-stamped)! Years ago I drove 10 hours to see a bike that was "original paint, all matching numbers, ridden yesterday". I got to see a spray painted bike with crudely restamped frame, 0 lbs compression on one side, tires dead flat and dusty. When challenged about his original paint description, the old bird said "it's original paint, it's under the spray paint"! If he wasn't 78, I think I would have punched him in the nose! Ah well, you have to see a few toads before you find the one for you I guess.