BMW created the unusual R65LS by taking a stock R65 and turning designer Hans Muth (think BWM R100RS, Suzuki Katana, Suzuki XN85, etc…) lose. The result was a bike with a striking profile and performance, well, performance equal to that of the stock R65 that powered it. Still, the inclusion of dual front disks, a sportier riding position and stiffer suspension definitely helped the R65LS out handle its lowly R65 brethren. In the end, customers were not interested in spending a premium over a standard R65, and the R65LS slipped off into obscurity.
Most R65LS bikes that you may come across are well-used machines, to put it kindly. Today’s bike, while far from stock, appears to be in good shape. The paint is not stock, the valve covers have been replaced (the LS model had metal-finished valve covers versus the stock R65 black ones), bar-end mirrors have been added, and a two-into-one exhaust has been fitted. Between the weight and the relatively low output of the 650cc boxer, this bike is never really going to win any drag races, but the changes are tasteful (depending upon how you like the paint) and certainly don’t hurt.
From the seller:
This LS goes right along real well! There are no abnormal sounds or vibrations, it starts right up, accelerates, shifts, stops and handles as it should. I have looked it over and given it a good inspection with everything checking out great, it’s obvious that this bike has been well taken care of and well maintained. The service is up to date, the oil and filter were just changed and all fluids checked it’s ready to ride.Please look real close at the up-to-the-minute photos as they show this bike really well. The custom flat black paint is deep, rich and the sides are smooth and shinny with no fading or swirl marks. The plastics and frame components look nice and are not faded or dull. It is obvious that this LS has been stored inside. This is a great looking bike that doesn’t show many miles. There are no dings, dents, rips, tears, rust, corrosion or major flaws.
Key Features:
Fork Brace
Braided Steel Front Brake Lines
Two into One Black Exhaust
Mikuni Carburetors
Koni Shocks
Bar End Mirrors
Custom Paint
The going rate for one of these BMW oddities is in the $2,000 – $3,000 range. This bike, with custom paintwork, might coax more out of a buyer – but it is really hard to defend such a non-standard color on a relatively rare bike. Here is a previous RSBFS post regarding another R65LS to help with your research and still more info on the R65LS FAQ page.
The R65 line-up has been a proven, reliable configuration for BMW, and owners can expect a long life with these understressed machines. If you are interested, you can
MI
Damn that’s ugly. I’ve never been a BMW fan, I just found one more reason why.