K75S Advice?

[jimdishman]

I'm contemplating adding a K75S to the stable as I have always liked the looks of this bike. There are a bunch of them for sale currently in IBMWR Marketplace. I would welcome any advice from the experts on this bike: Are there any years I should avoid, items to watch out for, etc? Also, is there a big difference in riding position K75S vs. K75C? - Thanks

[PGlaves]

Not totally, but for the most part the mechanicals are the same among the various years of the K75S. ABS started in 1988.

The "S" and the "C" are somewhat different. Different fairings. The "C" had a drum rear brake in '86 and '87.

The position of the palms of your hands will be slightly forward and 2 inches lower with an S than a C.

[deilenberger]

No years to avoid really. Splines are a concern on any K75 (do a search), and for some odd reason, front brake rotors are a weak spot on the S model (dunno why it seems model specific.. but it does..) Also check the front fairing, lift under the headlight - it shouldn't move a significant amount. If it does - the Y shaped fairing support may have come loose from the steering-head area of the frame, and may require replacement. It's not an awfully expensive part, but it is a PITA to replace. Regular checking of the mounting bolts to the frame (every oil change or so..) will prevent this from happening, or some blue-loctite would probably also prevent it.

Ideally you'll want to ride it before purchasing it, and inspect the rear splines at a minimum. I'd want one with complete service records if possible, and low miles isn't necessarily an advantage.

The later model 3-spoke rims were noted for bending rather easily if the tire pressure isn't carefully maintained, so you may want to spin the wheels to check for bends if it has the 3-spoke rims. Avoid ones with body damage if you're looking to make it perfect.. the fairing bits are rather expensive new from BMW. If it has ABS (I wouldn't buy one without it) - make sure it's working (the lights turn off after you take off.) If it isn't - it can get quite expensive to fix (new ABS brain is expensive!)

It's really my favorite K.. the only one I can see becoming a classic like the R90S.. the styling was exceptional IMHO. The S models still seem to demand a bit of a premium over the C bikes.

[deilenberger]

One additional comment - a very common modification on the S model is to put the C bars on it. No replacing of brake lines/throttle/clutch cables is needed. It moves the riding position backwards a bit, and gives more leverage on the front end. Cost of the bars is someplace around $120 last time I looked.. used ones can be found for half that.

[jimdishman]

Deilenberger/Pglaves:

Appreciate the advice. Also, remembered the IBMWR K-bike tech articles section after I posted -loads of info there too. Hope I can find a nice one close to Michigan.