Looking into /5 ownership

drpboston · Post by **drpboston** » Thu Jun 16, 2011 1:06 am

Hi All,

New guy here, looking into buying /5 and have a few questions.

Which is a better collector item - R75/5 or R50/5 (both Toaster tanks)

Also, did they make a toaster tank in 72 that didn't have chrome side panels?

Thanks all and looking forward to joining the ranks!

schrader7032 · Post by **schrader7032** » Thu Jun 16, 2011 6:57 am

I would say that the R75/5 is the more desireable...it was the breakout model in 1970 and as a true Toaster, it would be great to own. The R50/5 might be OK, but it will be slightly underpowered. Not many of the R50/5 was made, so that might make it more "collectible". But for a good riding bike and being sought after, the R75/5 would be the way to go.

I do believe that the Toaster Tank was an option. Another tank could be substituted, in addition to the fact that many at the time didn't like that look and the dealer removed the chrome side panel and literally threw it away. Pretty sad in hindsight.

drpboston · Post by **drpboston** » Thu Jun 16, 2011 4:22 pm

Thanks Kurt. I'm thinking the R50/5 would be more like a glorified (but very cool) scooter and would struggle on a nice ride through some canyons.

The R75/5 is actually near you and listed on Craigslist, Looks really clean. would you mind commenting on it?
http://houston.craigslist.org/mcy/2439085407.html

schrader7032 · Post by **schrader7032** » Thu Jun 16, 2011 4:39 pm

Yes, it is located here in my town, San Antonio. Would it help if I were to get permission to go look at it? You might want to check with the owner

It does look to be OK, based upon what he says. The hard cases and original seat included probably makes it a good price. I wonder if he would take more like $3500? But I would say the bike is priced within reason. I'd be curious as to the maintenance he's done and what he knows about the previous owners. In any event, you would need to redo all the essential stuff so you knew where you were starting.

It looks like the license plate is not a Texas plate. Almost looks like NY or PA.

drpboston · Post by **drpboston** » Thu Jun 16, 2011 6:57 pm

Wow, if you don't mind, I'd certainly find out if you can take a look at it for me.

Was also curious on the price, seems reasonable, but maybe there's a little room.

I'll ask and get back to you.

schrader7032 · Post by **schrader7032** » Fri Jun 17, 2011 6:58 am

Send me a PM if you have some details.

spo123 · Post by **spo123** » Fri Jun 17, 2011 9:03 pm

Nice looking bike, from the small pics.
IF, it is as nice as it appears......It would be a good price at $4,200 or more here north of Boston.
My '73 LWB Toaster has gone from 42,000 miles to 90,000 since I got it around 5 years ago.
I will NEVER sell the "black devil".
Good luck,
Ride Fast and Safe!
spo

Vintage BMW Motorcycle Owners

Looking into /5 ownership

Looking into /5 ownership

I would say that the R75/5 is

Thanks Kurt. I'm thinking

Yes, it is located here in my

Wow, if you don't mind, I'd

Send me a PM if you have some

Might be a VERY nice early Toaster.