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Vintage BMW for taller riders
Vintage BMW for taller riders
I had an '83 R80RT years ago and kind of remember feeling like I would like to push back a little on the seat but it wasn't too bad.
We are wondering if the 1980s R80s all have the same frame geometry, foot peg locations, etc.?
If so, I thought I could get a seat made that improved the ride somehow and made it more comfortable to ride the ST.
I know the newer GS models are supposed to work well for taller riders but I like the retro style BMWs and plan to do more local than long range riding.
Any thoughts?
- schrader7032
- Posts: 9053
- Joined: Fri Oct 27, 2006 3:00 am
- Location: San Antonio, TX
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Welcome! How tall are you?
Click on the various models on this page to look at seat heights...that might be a place to start.
http://www.bmbikes.co.uk/bmwmodels.htm
If you really want to go a bit radical, you could put on a set or rear-sets which move the footpegs back, but it promotes a forward lean position.
'78 R100/7 '69 R69S '52 R25/2
Fast. Neat. Average. Friendly. Good. Good.
1984 R80 ST
My friend bought the bike from a dealer who took it in after the previous owner dropped/crashed it. He had to redrill the rear fender mounting holes because the fender was offset from the tire. Sounds like the guy bent the rear frame. If the tabs where it attaches to the front frame are not bent I was thinking it might be worth replacing the rear frame section...or, just bend it back somehow.
I am 6'4" but I think it might work if I changed the handlebar angle a bit and got a seat that would allow me to sit back a little further.
I don't know the respective
Airhead handlebars for taller rider
Any suggestions about handlebars? Stock RT bars are still available for $150. Not sure what bars would have been stock with a model "T" so not sure it could accommodate an RT or taller bar without lengthening cables, etc.
- schrader7032
- Posts: 9053
- Joined: Fri Oct 27, 2006 3:00 am
- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Has thanked: 3 times
- Been thanked: 36 times
You can begin to ask about
https://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-Motorcycle ... hJ&vxp=mtr
I sit behind a Lufty fairing but still like to be sitting more upright...suits my style or riding. Whether you'll need new cables...my guess is you would. What you don't want are cables to the carbs that take a sharp bend right at the carb. That affects synching and operation.
As for the '84, be aware that BMW messed up with the seats in the '81-84 era. The seats don't transfer heat well, resulting in more heat retention in the valves. It's worse in the 1000c engines, and worse still in full-faired bikes. You'll need to monitor the valve clearances and when they start to close up every say 500 miles, time to get the whole top end done.
'78 R100/7 '69 R69S '52 R25/2
Fast. Neat. Average. Friendly. Good. Good.