The Airhead Experience

[hobbywhore]

Its winter here in Louisiana, which means we get ride in cooler air. But because it get sdark so much earlier, I only ride on the weekends. I rode my oilhead Saturday and I love that bike. Its smooth and powerful and just right for me. But Sunday I rode my Airhead and the experience is different some how from riding the same route on my oihead. I don't go as fast, but its more exicting. Maybe it because I know the bike inside and out. I've taken everything apart that can be taken apart and put it back together, myself. I've often thought if I had to take a bike around the world, which one would I take. I always pick the airhead, because I know I could make it go again without a high priest from Munich. I wish I could keep going after I get home. I just want to see how other people feel when they ride their Airheads.

[James.A]

The airhead BMW motorcycle is the kind of machine that could not be built in today's economy. The user friendly machine is a long lost ethic. Hell, we can no longer fix our own lawn mowers. The legacy that BMW still utilizes to sell motorcycles is the legend of the airhead boxer. It is, however, a deception. Consider the quaint notion that a person could own and ride a motorbike where build quality and the engineering simplicity might allow the user to take it anywhere he or she might see fit to go with the knowledge that IF it quits, you might be able to effect a roadside repair that allows you to ride to help. Compare that ideal to the reality of the modern motorcycle sold by any manufacturer. There is no motorcycle made today that allows the rider this level of control over his/her own circumstance. The airhead is the real example of the motorcycle for the people. It's a shame that the ideal is gone forever. If I couldn't own an AIRHEAD, I would quit riding.

[04R1150RS]

I recently purchased and airhead in August (R80G/S) if I were going on a long trip to parts unknown I'd choose it over my 2004 R1150RS, why?? Because I can most likely fix it unlike the oilhead. Now I really like the oilhead, power, suspension, brakes......and so on, but from a maintenance standpoint the airhead is so much better. It's so much cheaper to maintain!!!
The G/S isn't fast, pretty (getting prettier the longer I have it), and doesn't stop that well either, but at 95,000 miles it should be dependable. I'd take it anywhere now that I've gone through it.

[orbitangel]

WOW!

This thread has struck me like a bowling ball to the chest!

This has so much to do with why I love my old R100RS.

For example:

…from a maintenance standpoint the airhead is so much better.

…if I had to take a bike around the world, which one would I take. I always pick the airhead, because I know I could make it go again without a high priest from Munich.

There is no motorcycle made today that allows the rider this level of control over his/her own circumstance.

I can't say it any better!

The airhead family of BMWs are not perfect - but they have a LOT going for them!

[lostboy]

I have had the opportunity to ride nearly every BMW model bult from /2 to the latest K1200s, and my own regular rides are several K-bikes. Every time I ride a good running air-cooled twin, I think to myself, "Why is this thing such a pleasure to ride?" An air-cooled boxer seems to find it's way around a corner without any effort on my part, and pulls it's way out so nicely. Perhaps a more challenging question is where did BMW lose this?

[Boxerkuh]

I have owned and sold several bikes in life. The only one that I regreting selling was my 93 R100R. I have decided that my current ride will never be sold, I will only be adding to it. I will rebuild, reburbish, replace and renew this one, until I die. Then it is willed to my riding buddy, my son. So, it is a family hairloom. I was thinking of riding to Alaska, which GS to take, an Airhead, Oilhead, or Hexhead and I came to the conclusion it would have to be an Airhead. If that makes me an Airhead that is okay, I have been called worse and I am in great company. Would not change a thing!!!:dance :twirl

[boxerr]

I have owned 4 oilheads, and now a 1990 R100GSPD.

Just did a 950klm trip, and I have done this trip on all my oilheads, but I must say that the GSPD, with an Airhawk cushion, was by far the best bike I have done this trip on. Very addictive bike.

I cant explain what it is about this bike( I obviously dont have to), but it hits the right spot, which as much as the oilheads were great bikes, they never "did it" for me.

I think this one will be in my shed for a long time.:dance

[yrfuneralmytrial]

I'm new to the airhead experience but have to agree to the addiction aspect of it.
I feel somewhat transported back in time when I'm riding it and it's a really comforting feeling. I'm also getting a lot of zen time in the garage. It's odd how you bond with certain bikes and others...you just don't.

"Perhaps a more challenging question is where did BMW lose this?"

-I don't know, and not to slag on modern BMWs but they definitely could stand to revisit their history a bit. Ducati, Triumph, Guzzi...all have modern retros. I imagine a lot of people would get very excited about a modern R90S descendant.

[ccolwell]

With + 20,000 miles on both air- and oilheads, I've only had to make one repair on the roadside. To an oilhead. With a Swiss Army knife. It back fired on start up and blew the fuel injector body off the cylinder. All I needed was a screwdriver and there was no need to remove the seat.

That's when I learned to stop worrying and love electronics and fuel injection.

[From MARS]

I have owned 4 oilheads, and now a 1990 R100GSPD.

Just did a 950klm trip, and I have done this trip on all my oilheads, but I must say that the GSPD, with an Airhawk cushion, was by far the best bike I have done this trip on. Very addictive bike.

I cant explain what it is about this bike( I obviously dont have to), but it hits the right spot, which as much as the oilheads were great bikes, they never "did it" for me.

I think this one will be in my shed for a long time.:dance

After 2 K-bikes, I finally went to an airhead, a '93 R100GSPD. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner.

Tom

[cactuspat]

Less is more.Airheads forever.

[BeemoKat]

I have an oilhead GS and an R-80. Which one I love more depends on which one I'm riding!

[rocketman]

For me its partly the idea I'm riding a "conversation" piece, I get tons more folks coming up and admiring it than when on the LT, "It has HOW many miles on it??" or "Its HOW old???" in other words its a great way to meet folks who might never bother to stop and chat..
its light, its fun, it "knows" me, I feel more connected to the ride, it just begs to go exploring down that side road I just past...its a bike for riding in jeans and tees (yeah yeah i know...)

but mostly, it just "fits"...

RM

[CTellman]

I live on the NC coast. It is about three hours to two dealers. Frankly, when I was buying new BMWs near Syracuse, NY the dealer was not good. I bought three bikes from him. A '72 R60/5, '73 R75/5 and a '75 R90/6. I could do minor repairs and adjustments on those motorcycles.
Now that I am 61 and working poor, I could not afford or maintain a Asian bike. I need to have access to parts long after the bike is out of production. I cannot rely on dealer because of cost and I certainly cannot afford a newer BMW with computers and systems requiring dealer input.
I rarely see a used R bike that is for sale at a reasonable price. It seems there is a shortage on the used market.
I found a beautiful bike at a reasonable price and I bought it. I can work on it and even improve it myself. I love the ride, power and smoothness of the motorcycle. If I couldn't have found such a bike, I wouldn't and couldn't have a motorcycle.
Campbell Tellman II
'93 R100RT

[lkchris]

The airhead BMW motorcycle is the kind of machine that could not be built in today's economy. The user friendly machine is a long lost ethic. Hell, we can no longer fix our own lawn mowers. The legacy that BMW still utilizes to sell motorcycles is the legend of the airhead boxer. It is, however, a deception. Consider the quaint notion that a person could own and ride a motorbike where build quality and the engineering simplicity might allow the user to take it anywhere he or she might see fit to go with the knowledge that IF it quits, you might be able to effect a roadside repair that allows you to ride to help. Compare that ideal to the reality of the modern motorcycle sold by any manufacturer. There is no motorcycle made today that allows the rider this level of control over his/her own circumstance. The airhead is the real example of the motorcycle for the people. It's a shame that the ideal is gone forever. If I couldn't own an AIRHEAD, I would quit riding.

I love my Airheads and am not trading up in the near future, but nevertheless this is way overblown.

Fact is, every single thing about the Oilhead is better than an Airhead

Only negative I've seen with Oilheads is that they are boring to ride, as engine compression serves in place of most braking and when braking is required it is much better than Airhead braking and there's no dive.

You know, for every single statement in favor of the ease of maintenance of Airheads, it's so easy to counter that this maintenance won't be required on an Oilhead. Even setting valve lash is easier, because even though there are twice as many it's twice as easy. It's a darn good thing Airhead maintenance is easy, because you'll be doing lots of it.

Oh, the Oilhead's tubeless tires are a negative, too, and the nicer ride of the Airhead is a bit gone in favor of the better handling, again "boring" to me as it reduces rider involvement.

But, safer, faster, and more reliable add up to significant improvement.

[kstoo]

Don't try to get too logical about this thread, Kent, 'cuz most of it is based on some emotional preferences. I just LIKE my RS more than anything that I have ever ridden. If I couldn't have an airhead I would ride something else but I would always be waxing nostalgic.
With all of the airhead parts that are still available, how hard would it be to retool an asssembly line to produce R100's without even redesigning anything? The Triumph T100 is a totally new design in a retro fashion and that is selling ok. Why couldn't BMW just take the old blueprints out and put this back into production? They have put a lot of effort into the 450 for the motocross market, do they not see baby boomers and yuppies reliving their dreams as a potential market?

[brentde3]

I've been riding since I was ten, starting with a Yamaha YS-50. Cool little bike. Then I rode a Suzuki GS500. Went from that to a Bandit 600, which I put twenty-thousand relatively trouble-free miles on. Then, like a dope, I sold that bike. Motorcycling is an addiction with me, so I fixed my cravings on my Dad's Road King when he'd let me. Then, when we sold our house and decided to move across the country, my wife said those six beatiful words, "I want to learn to ride." We bought a used Kawasaki Ninja 650r for me to enjoy and her to learn on, which she did, and I did. My first fuel injected bike. And it took an hour-and-a-half to change the oil. Too much plastic. And I had to take it to the dealer several times, mostly because it had some mapping problems and surged down low. Scared my wife half-to-death a few times.

Finally sold that, after only putting five-thousand miles on it, because it just wasn't worth the hassle. Then I got the /6. Only bike I've ever wanted to name. Only bike I've ever stared at for long periods of time in the garage just because it's so pretty. Only bike I've ever taken apart and put back together again.

So, that's the airhead experience. They're just cool.

[airhead78]

I had always wanted a r100rs when a teenager and could never afford one. I have thad three through the years ( have two now and regret selling the third). I also have an oilhead with which I have had no issues (95 rs as well). I do not love my oilhead. I just ride it more than the airheads because of convenience and safety. Airhead maintenance is a PITA. Always fiddling with something. Need to have a lot of time or .... I do go to the garage to look at my airheads though..... if I had to sell, I would keep my true love.

Eduardo.

[casper_zip]

Hey all:

I have been riding BMW airheads since 1973. I bought a new /5 and still have it, still ride it. It's been on long trips with me aboard, never any problems. This is a great and wonderful bike.

airheads forever !!!!!!

Bob

[535is]

Fact is, every single thing about the Oilhead is better than an Airhead
Ah, yes. But think what a great Airhead they could build now, knowing all the annoying foibles they have that can be easily fixed with slightly updated technology (mostly materials tech), if they would just decide to go ahead and do it.

[97077]

Sorry ikchris. I have to disagree with you. One thing that an Oilhead does not have over an Airhead is looks. No Oilhead, no matter what year can hold up to an Airhead RS or S models. I won't talk about final drives, clutches, surging or resale value. Again to each his own. We are suppose to get 8" to 14" of snow starting tonight. :banghead Have a great day. Kevin

[mutineer]

Its winter here in Louisiana, which means we get ride in cooler air. But because it get sdark so much earlier, I only ride on the weekends. I rode my oilhead Saturday and I love that bike. Its smooth and powerful and just right for me. But Sunday I rode my Airhead and the experience is different some how from riding the same route on my oihead. I don't go as fast, but its more exicting. Maybe it because I know the bike inside and out. I've taken everything apart that can be taken apart and put it back together, myself. I've often thought if I had to take a bike around the world, which one would I take. I always pick the airhead, because I know I could make it go again without a high priest from Munich. I wish I could keep going after I get home. I just want to see how other people feel when they ride their Airheads.

I have three airheads in my garage right now so this is certainly not an either or scenario

but

you may want to a second look at the Triumph Bonneville

air cooled
carbs
simple motor with an understressed case
durable like an anvil
reliable as an axe
the only electronic issue is the ignition box, of which I have never heard of a single failure, and many if not most airheads have been upgraded to electronic ignition
parts readily available

I think the Triumph Bonneville is the modern airhead and I think they are gorgeous bikes

mine is the black one and the red one belongs to my brother

http://mutineer.smugmug.com/photos/415622430_PLhKQ-XL.jpg

[yrfuneralmytrial]

"Then I got the /6. Only bike I've ever wanted to name. "

-Funny, same here. Lily is her name.

"One thing that an Oilhead does not have over an Airhead is looks."

-Agreed 100%. Take a person aged 25-35 and show them a showroom mint R90S and any modern BMW and I'd bet 80% would say "I want that one (R90)".

"I think the Triumph Bonneville is the modern airhead and I think they are gorgeous bikes"

-I've had four Hinckley triples (and loved them) but never thought about the Bonnie-Airhead comparo. By gosh, I think you're right. The newest ones have gone to fuel-injection though.

[crazydrummerdude]

Fact is, every single thing about the Oilhead is better than an Airhead

You never let us down with your positive input.

...

woodnsteel's got it spot-on, but I'd keep riding even if I didn't have an airhead.
:bikes

[beemerguru]

After 35 years of riding almost everything but a Harley, I finally found happiness when I bought my second BMW - R100RT. Had bought a new K75 a few months before. The airhead was just sooooo much more fun and had it's own personality...that changed with the temperature ;-)

Now I just keep the /2 for stying types of rides, the K100RS because I've always loved the design and power...and after 18 R80G/S rebuilds...guess what gets the cross country, down to Baja, over to the store, go anywhere workout...the G/Ss.

I had a couple guys sell their R12 Adventures a couple years ago and told me to build custom G/Ss for them. Something with soul, easy to work on in the middle of Idaho or Alaska or Africa, with all the upgrades to take on the modern designs. These bikes are just so much fun!!!

[boxerr]

There is no doubt that the later oilhead/hexhead bikes are "safer?"
better brakes, handle? better, but they have no soul like the airheads.
And you can upgrade the brakes etc on an airhead.

I have a Yamaha YZ450 front end on my GSPD, 6 piston brake caliper, updated rear shocker, and it stops, and handles as well as I need it to.

I find working on my own bikes satisfying as well. you bond more with the bike if you understand its workings. All part of the total ownership for me:dance

[Bill Burke]

It's a Zen thing. You've either got it or you don't. And one more thing: Less Tupperware. That's real handy for the occasional get-off.

[keelerb]

I have no doubt that a 2009 Honda/Kawasaki/Suzuki/Yamaha whatever is a "better" bike, technically, safety-wise, performance-wise, etc., than my 73 Norton Commando.

I'll stick with the Commando, thanks. And my airhead.

Not a knock on those who prefer moderne bikes. Just a personal preference.

[Evergreen]

My experience covers airheads, oilheads and now, hexheads. Each one has had a purpose, but I have to say the R1100RT oilhead was not my most desirable of the lot. I was forever re-synching the throttle bodies and adjusting the valves to try an eliminate the surge. It would go away for awhile, the return in a few hundred miles. I also had the ABS unit fail and need to be replaced before I felt right selling it to the next owner; cost: $1,500!! Also, wore out the front tire on one side and it pulled to the right constantly. Was top heavy too. Put about 30,000 miles on it, so I feel I knew that one pretty well.

The current long-range touring bike is a 1988 R100RT. Yes, the brakes don't touch the newer bikes, and the suspension isn't as good, but for what I used the R1100RT for, it is more comfortable, except for excess heat on my legs and feet in the summertime temps. It is very comfortable at highway speeds, can cary lots of stuff on a trip, is repairable on the road, and has readily available parts. Does not pull to either side or have other bad habits like the oilhead.

The newer bike is a R1200GS which is ideal for just about anything, including a SS1000 earlier this year, and traversing many of the mountain pass roads here in Colorado. It is the best bike I have ever had, bar none. I'll see how reliable it is in time.

Finally, my long-term keeper is the R75/5 which excels at that vintage feel and, I have to admit, has some emotional attachment/connection for me because I restored it from the frame up and have had my grubby paws on every part of it.

So that's my $0.02.

Snowing now......

Best To All,

Greg

[DrDuck]

Here's my two cents. I rode a 73 R75/5 lwb for 15 years in L.A., didn't have a car, didn't want one. Gradually added all the fixes and nice touches that made it My Ride. You're right about working on it . With some tools and a couple of manuals you could fix almost anything. Or at least get far enough into it to understand the problem when you had to call for help. I like to do a visual inspection before a ride but with a lot of the new bikes you can't even see the engine, you can check the tire pressure but that's about it. Sold the bike to pay for my daughter's school in 95. Recently bought another one nearly identical, 73 R75/5. The bike was in Minnesota I'm in L.A. Took the train, spent 2 days with the guy who bought it new in 73. Then rode it back to California. No problems. Cruise at 85, 90? no problem. Try that on any other 35 year old bike. Just finished repainting a set of Wixom bags for it and put on a Brown side stand. So, Yeah there's something about airheads.

[ducatipaso]

Less is more.Airheads forever.

QFT - minimalist airheads are even better :rocker

[krehmkej]

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Airheads rule.

[Rod Sheridan]

Nostalgia for times past.

Modern bikes are better at almost everything.

So says the guy with no modern bikes in his garage.

I'm on my second R90/6, still have my Commando (original owner), and a 1930 James 500cc single.

I'm also a Technologist by trade, so it's kind of odd that I like the airheads so much. You would expect that someone who spends his days designing modifications for machinery, and maintenance programmes for them, would want a more competent design.

Yes we can repair them, which is a good thing since they need service so frequently.

I think the two main items I like so much about the Airheads are;

- the vintage feel of the machine, I can own a vintage bike that doubles as basic transport. Something none of my British bikes could accomplish.

- the look, although I think the Bonneville was the nicest looking bike, the Airhead has to come in as a very close second.

regards, Rod.

[nealart]

It's an old bike you can actually ride somewhere.

[woodwind]

I'm new to airhead ownership but already agree with many of the comments here. I've been riding for 35 years, starting with dirt bikes then on to Japanese street bikes and for the past 20 years or so have owned a succession of old Triumphs. I love vintage Triumphs but always felt limited in terms of how far I could reasonably expect to travel without too much drama.

The BMW gives me a vintage feel in a bike that can be ridden all day and go just about anywhere. Mine is a '93 and to me is the perfect blend of old and new technology. I really wish I had bought one sooner.

[tourunigo]

... my discussion with the driver turned to motorcycle travel (ok, a bit of manipulating on my part). Told him about our recent trip on the K11 but then I found myself quickly moving to talking about this 35 year old that I had in the shop. That /5 will go anywhere in the world that I point it. If I was into a forced choice situation to take just one then that Old Fella is it. Bus driver thought this such an exciting concept. The machine is (almost) pure simplicity, integrity and reliability. I learned a lot from that Old Fella. - Bob

[keelerb]

Cruise at 85, 90? no problem. Try that on any other 35 year old bike.

My 73 Norton has no problem with that either. Has taken a bit of work to make it reliable (like removing every bit of Lucas electrics....) but worth it.

And yes, I love my airhead too.

[bobh41]

Crazydrummerdude:
You never let us down with your positive input.


Just to be clear - I don't actually know you or lkchris. I note you have occasionally responded with sarcasm to his comments. (And just so you know, sarcasm is a form of negativity). I'm sure I don't need to defend lkchris, he is capable of speaking for himself, but I'm calling attention to your own spontaneous negativity. But that's not all; just as you aspire to the engineering profession, lkchris is an experienced engineer and comes to his opinions with considerably more scientific, logical, technical training than most here. I personally value his input, just as I value yours. I don't appreciate your twenty-something holier-than-thou attitude about others opinions and mindsets. Give it another 30 years before you sit in lofty judgment about your seniors. Otherwise, I respect, even admire your youthful vitality, energy and enthusiasm. Just get off your "positive soapbox", please.

Cordially...

[James.A]

I consider it an honor and high acheivement to have had Kent declare my original statement to be "overblown". Seriously, you can't make waves if you don't displace water. Kent makes waves as do I, and his technical expertise is first-rate and highly valued. Now then, who among us wouldn't like to take our accumulated experience and insight back to the age of twenty-something? I cotton to the younger guys because they remind me of me. They are the ones to carry on the airhead ethic when we are consigned to the rocking chair.

[nealart]

This is another part of "The Airhead Experience."

Cranky-know-it-all-geezerism

vs

Young-punk-non-stock-osity

And all the incarnations between.

[Brettendress]

People are always suprised when they see me on my 1970 r60/5 at the finger lakes or on the Blue Ridge. I kind of intentionally look puzzled and ask, Why, I trust it to go to California from Altoona Pa. today without any work. Its so simple and so much fun to ride. It brings me back to my early days of riding when things were simple and people seem confused. I just put along and enjoy the day. With the modern bikes in the garage a 04gs 96 vfr 05 vulcan they seem a little sterile. Even I sometimes make myself believe the airhead wont make it until I'm on the road for a few hours and it runs like the day it was new and it impresses me. I love this bike and would never part with it for any reason I can think of. Repairs are so easy like the time I replaced the points at a fruit stand and set the gap with a cigarette box I found along the road and kept on going, or the only other break down was a battery cable that shorted. I just shorteded it and reconnected and off I went. Can't do that with the new bikes.

Brett Endress
Altoona pa

[crazydrummerdude]

I think this would be best discussed in PM's.

I'm sure I don't need to defend lkchris

Then, why? If he has a problem with me, I'm sure he'd tell me.

Just get off your "positive soapbox", please.

So, am I supposed to be cranky, too?

I come here to learn from the "know-it-all-geezerism" hoping they'll leave the "cranky" part out. (After all, what in the hell is there the be cranky about? Life is good.)

In person, I've got to know 3, count 'em, 3 MOA members with airheads. They've been exceptionally helpful and friendly. One of them has gone above and beyond in teaching and helping me have my very own airhead experience. I'd nominate him for some award somewhere, if I knew which one.

I guess It's just my naivity. (Read the Jaunary "My Turn" in the ON that I wrote.) I expect people to be positive (especially when it comes to these awesome, old machines that generate so many smiles/mile themselves). I guess since I've only been in the MOA since 2004 and have never attended a national rally, I don't know who's who, or who knows what.

To paraphrase what I've seen lkchris say over the years on here and advrider, though; "you can't do that." "that won't work." "the flywheels make these machines less than fun to ride." "farm implements." "oilheads are better than airheads." The list goes on. I just wish he'd share his insights rather than insults.. because I'm keeping my airheads til I die.

I'd like to pick his, and everyones, brain. I guess I'd like to be the Matt Parkhouse, Paul Glaves, Oak, Robert Fleischer, etc etc, of my day.

:bikes

Guess that adds to part of my airhead experience. :blah

[nealart]

You're not a member of airheads.org?

You should be.

Your local chapter is probably having a tech session right now!

Meet actual cranky geezers who know it all!

I mean that in a good way.

[crazydrummerdude]

You're not a member of airheads.org?

You should be.

Your local chapter is probably having a tech session right now!

Meet actual cranky geezers who know it all!

I mean that in a good way.

I am. I've even considered becoming an AirMarshall for MO, because since I've been a member there hasn't been one. Local chapter? Tech session? Never seen one around my parts. I'd definitely host one about every weekend if I was an AirMarshall, though.

[SCQTT]

Sorry, but I think the airhead is better if you like to tinker with things. I just ride the Oil & Hex heads.

The suspension and brakes on my old GS might as well be from the 50's.

Airheads are cool and yes they are capable machines that can go long distances. (so are unicycles with the right rider) That said, most are best suited for a relaxed sunday ride to lunch.

I had an 01 650 Dakar and my 93 R100GS at the same time. I needed to trade one in when I bought the 1150 Adventure. I decided to let the 650 go. I listened to my heart and could not let the classic R100GS slip out of my hands. No regrets, but the 650 Dakar was a superior bike in every way.

[nealart]

That said, most are best suited for a relaxed sunday ride to lunch.

Oh boy. I wouldn't be surprised if that raised a few eyebrows.;)

Hey drummerdude, I bet if you listed a tech session at your place you'd be surprised how far people come from.

Especially if you mention one or two specific procedures you will demonstrate.
But, that isn't a guarantee. You might end up all alone working on your bike. Which ain't so bad either.

[rocketman]

Sorry, but I think the airhead is better if you like to tinker with things. I just ride the Oil & Hex heads.

Airheads are cool and yes they are capable machines that can go long distances. (so are unicycles with the right rider) That said, most are best suited for a relaxed sunday ride to lunch.

This is true, I've gone for a nice relaxed ride to lunch that started on a Sunday and went on into Monday and Tuesday and Wedsnday and finally on thrusday I arrived and had a very nice lunch with a bunch of other folks; then I rode home on Friday into Saturday and finally got home the following Sunday, no matter that it was nearly a thousand miles each way, both the ride and lunch were very relaxing! Ha Ha!

RM

[SCQTT]

This is true, I've gone for a nice relaxed ride to lunch that started on a Sunday and went on into Monday and Tuesday and Wedsnday and finally on thrusday I arrived and had a very nice lunch with a bunch of other folks; then I rode home on Friday into Saturday and finally got home the following Sunday, no matter that it was nearly a thousand miles each way, both the ride and lunch were very relaxing! Ha Ha!

RM

Sure I get it. I know about a Korean guy who went on a year long ride around the US on a Honda 50cc Ruckus. He did over 22,000 miles in that year.

I'm sure the airhead was fine on this trip, but wouldn't the ride have been better on something that goes, stops & turns via modern hardware?

[shire2000]

More than eyebrows raised here.

People keep talking about Airheads needing lots of maintenance and tinkering. I really don't see that. I do the regular oil changes, tuneups, brakes, tires, etc. Just like what is done on every bike. I ride on average 35-40,000 miles per year on my 1981 R100RT. I have no qualms about riding it cross country or around the block. I ride it places that many would not take a "road bike" and it shows some "battle scars". So what? It gets me where I want to go and back, asking only for some good quality gas and oil in exchange.

As to tweaking, that all gets done whenever I buy a replacement bike. Buy the bike, park it in the garage and go over it from one end to the other. Just like the mechanic at your dealership does (or should do) when they pull your brand new bike out of the crate from Munich. Once mine is done, it is good to go. Usually takes no more than 1 weekend once every 7-10 years. Boy, that is real high maintenance!

If you want to own a good reliable airhead, that you can repair almost anywhere by yourself, then you have to spend a little time up front. Once done, and with appropriate care and feeding, it will last almost forever. We are talking about bikes that are around 30 years old.

:ca

[widebmw]

Sure I get it. I know about a Korean guy who went on a year long ride around the US on a Honda 50cc Ruckus. He did over 22,000 miles in that year.

I'm sure the airhead was fine on this trip, but wouldn't the ride have been better on something that goes, stops & turns via modern hardware?

I don't think you do "get it"
You have one airhead and you probably don't ride it much.
I have had my R100R since Jan. of 1992 and I have 255,000 mile on it.
My wife and I have put 99% of those miles on it 2-up. Only one time did I need help and that was a bad alternator rotor. I have replaced that with the Omega system. Every year we make one big trip ( Over 5,000 miles.) and many smaller trips and I never worry that I am going to have any problems that I can't fix on the road.

[crazydrummerdude]

More than eyebrows raised here.

People keep talking about Airheads needing lots of maintenance and tinkering. I really don't see that.

+1.

All it takes is regular maintenance. Occasionally any bike or car will have any random part go out. I am pretty dang sure I spend less on my replacement parts, especially when I do it myself, than someone on a brand spankin' new R1200 does.

[rocketman]

Sure I get it. I know about a Korean guy who went on a year long ride around the US on a Honda 50cc Ruckus. He did over 22,000 miles in that year.

I'm sure the airhead was fine on this trip, but wouldn't the ride have been better on something that goes, stops & turns via modern hardware?

Not really, for the kind of ride I set out to take, it was it was perfect choice, a nice easy ride along the Ohio River system, thru the WV hills, etc.

Now if I had wanted to roll down some slab and get there in one day I'd have taken the LT. Two different bikes for two different kinds of rides no point in comparing them since they each do what they do better than the other. Still my first love will always be my airhead, but I'm much more into vintage machines than modern, vintage bikes have a character that attracts me more, simply said they fit me better. Having studied the history of riding I am in awe of what the early riders went thru and had to endure to satisfy their craving for the feel of the open road and the wind. Perhaps in a way its my way of paying tribute to that whole experience without their dedication we wouldn't have the machines we have today.... and besides would you ever see this on a modern bike?:lol

http://roadrunes.com/photo/d/14691-1/MF-6poster.jpg

RM

[SCQTT]

besides would you ever see this on a modern bike?:lol


RM


Maybe, but she'd never post it on here for fear the safety nazis would attack her for lack of proper riding apparel :)

[rocketman]

Maybe, but she'd never post it on here for fear the safety nazis would attack her for lack of proper riding apparel :)

to which she would no doubt simply smile and ride off knowing they simply don't Get It! :lol

besides back then it WAS perfectly appropriate!

RM

[cactuspat]

Nice picture,painting

[James.A]

This is another part of "The Airhead Experience."

Cranky-know-it-all-geezerism

vs

Young-punk-non-stock-osity

And all the incarnations between.
SO TRUE.

This is my vocation here on MOA. I want the airhead BMW to reign supreme until the last airhead dies. I own 2 and probably won't live long enough to wear them out. However, I'd like to hook 1 more low mileage ride just to make sure. I have an R27 to trade,...who wants it?

Nathan is the kind of cat who will be campaigning airheads when I am dead and gone. I am pleased to be one of the riders who is passing forward the airhead ethic.

[RandyB]

SO TRUE.

This is my vocation here on MOA. I want the airhead BMW to reign supreme until the last airhead dies. I own 2 and probably won't live long enough to wear them out. However, I'd like to hook 1 more low mileage ride just to make sure. I have an R27 to trade,...who wants it?

Nathan is the kind of cat who will be campaigning airheads when I am dead and gone. I am pleased to be one of the riders who is passing forward the airhead ethic.

Maybe by then Ural will have figured it out and offer RT, RS and GS, G/S versions.

+1 on Airhead campaigning. I need 2 more: R50 and R75 slash something.

[yrfuneralmytrial]

"That said, most are best suited for a relaxed sunday ride to lunch."

-I can definitely see your point because they are 100% awesome for those times. However, I just did a 300+ mile romp through the Ozarks (where I live) and things got pretty spirited. I own a Speed Triple so I understand "spirited". I'm riding my /6 to the National Rally (my first!!!) this year.

"but wouldn't the ride have been better on something that goes, stops & turns via modern hardware?"

-No and that's part of the experience. I can't even describe how I feel when I'm on the /6. But, I will say for the record, it's a more satisfying experience than when I'm riding either the S3 or the VStrom.

People keep talking about Airheads needing lots of maintenance and tinkering. I really don't see that.

-I agree. I'm having to do some stuff on the front end as you mentioned (basically the bike was unused, sitting 2nd fiddle for a long time) but after that, I should be set with just normal looking after. Besides, I can tell it's all helping me with a better "take my time and do it right" mentality.

Also, maybe I'm naive or perhaps it's where I live (I've been riding 8 years and live in a pretty rockin' college town) but I've not felt handicapped by the airhead's performance. I mean it goes, it stops, it handles surprisingly well. Granted, I'm not competing with Dallas, TX rush hour traffic but I've never once thought I'm on an "antiquated death machine".

[GlobalRider]

I just want to see how other people feel when they ride their Airheads.

Really great especially when the electric fuel pump doesn't fail. Hey, wait a minute, it doesn't have one of those.

Both my airheads feel nimble compared to both my oilheads and they're a lot more fun to ride.

There is nothing like simplicity.

[sumran]

when we are consigned to the rocking chair.

I suspect your rocking chair will be a loose seat on a /5.:whistle

[From MARS]

My R100GSPD is my 6th bike in 35 years of riding. I can't imagine having to buy a 7th; this one does all I could ever ask of a bike. I just pulled her into the shop for some "going over", and I will be undertaking task which I would never have attempted on the K12RS. Not only will I be saving mechanics fees, but I will be gaining an intimate knowledge of her that translates into confidence that only comes from knowing how things work. With the K, and all her associated electronics, it was FM (freaking magic). With the airhead, there is understanding.

Tom

[abe456]

I've owned a bunch of oilheads, the K12LT, K12RS, and 15 jap bikes. None of them were really that much fun to ride.

Then I stumbled over a 95 R100RT. I bought it without riding it. Turned out it needed some work, and I really didnt get that good of a deal. It still has a few problems that have defied solution, mainly annoying steering wobble at 45 mph.

But, to be honest, this airhead makes me smile everytime I ride it. I hate to get off at the end of the ride. She purrs like a kitten, doesnt vibrate, ergos are perfect. The minor problems I have to deal with are really just part of the bike's character flaws. The good fun greatly outweighs the probs.

It's raining cats and dogs outside; think I'll go for a ride. Yeeehaaaa!!!!

What the hell was BMW thinking when they abandoned their airhead tradition, I will never understand.

[nealart]

I would seriously get that 45 mph wobble fix.

Are the tires new?

How about the steering head bearings.

[crazydrummerdude]

I have an R27 to trade,...who wants it?

:ear

I'll give you..... crap, I got nothin'.

[tourunigo]

and you can load them up as much as you dare and go. At 28 years old (back in 2001) this rig (1973 75/5 LWB) took us 11,500 miles around the U.S. A bit too much stuff but what an adventure! -Bob
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd244/tourunigo/2001-2005/a29b8888.jpg

[47512]

I have a R75/6, with 168,000 on it, it makes me smile every time I ride it, I also have a 75 Norton 850 MKIII, both of these were bought new and are still with me because I like riding them. Several machines have pased through my garage, including two K100's over the years, the old ones have been good relible machines and are simple to service. I have a 06 Ducati Multistrada, and a 08 R1200R, We'll see how long they stay, but those two old twins arn't going anywhere. My wife would rather ride on the old ones, mostly because they both have better seats. htan the new ones.

Ken G.

[lostboy]

"My wife would rather ride on the old ones, mostly because they both have better seats. htan the new ones."

More room, too. Ain't that a sad state of affairs?

Ever ridden a K1200LT? Most uncomfortable thing I ever rode.

[47512]

Yes It's shame to buy a new motorcycle other than mabe a Goldwing or a HD dresser and then have to buy a deicent seat for it. My wife and I have done many long days on the BMW, and on the Norton, and both of them have made laps on the Saddlesore 1000, the seats were never an issue.

Ken G.