R80 Fork Diameter? Headlight Mounts...

[Kirbster919]

I've got a 1986 R80 that currently has an aftermarket fairing. The fairing has got to go. I'm looking at all the parts I'd need to put a BMW headlight (and turn signals) on the bike and am not liking the costs, so I'm considering using a non-bmw headlamp. This bike isn't ever going to be a classic, so I'm not concerned about what is original and what isn't.

I've got two purposes for this post. First off, what is the general concensus on using an aftermarket headlamp? I'm going to make sure I get a DOT approved one and all that good stuff.

Second off, if I use a universal mount, does could anybody tell me the diameter of their R80's forks? Unfortunately I'm away from my bike at school, and I was hoping to have the parts ordered so I can install them as soon as I return home.

Thanks!

Kirby

[20774]

Haynes says stanchion OD for 1985-on bikes was 38.425-38.450mm.

[R80andR100RT]

I've got a 1986 R80..... This bike isn't ever going to be a classic, .


What?? Who told you that?

[Kirbster919]

Well.... let me rephrase that. By the time this bike becomes a classic, I plan to have 500k miles on it. I'm 20 years old, so I should have the bike a LONG time, and I'd rather ride it than spend more money making it original. In 40 years if I still have it, then I'll worry about finding a headlight...

Thanks for the info!

[kourt999]

Dude, my 85 R80 is a classic.

<img src="http://kourt.dehaas.com/horizons/11-28set/11-28set-1.jpg">

107K miles.

kourt

[lostboy]

Classic or not, the easy way out is to use genuine BMW parts. You can find the parts you need used for a lot less than new, and you won't have to fabricate anything, as you would if you try to use aftermarket stuff.

I'd probably use a /6-'84 headlight. There's a zillion of them out there, and you can put the ignition lock in the side of the headlight instead out in the weather.