Which Buke?
Yes modern BMWs do seem to give trouble!
I have had two before; a R60/5 and a K100RS. Neither did give much trouble - although neither were happy on a gravel road; hunting and weaving and generally feeling nervous.
I have wanted to find a R80 GS in any condition, here in Queensland, to be rebuilt if necessary for overseas travel. But they all seem to have vanished from the roads.
There are plenty of the more modern öilhead"GS models, and they are at a good price.
Plus, their reliability seems to be acceptable. However I have other reasons to look for an old airhead.
The first is that my wife could never feel safe on a modern oilhead. Even with my Sportster, she is on tip-toes to sit astride. An old airhead would be much better for her. If/when we travel overseas, she would be on her bike, I on mine. But time comes when it is necessary to swap bikes. And it thus necessary to be comfortable on the other's bike.
The next reason is sentiment. When the R80GS came out, I was church-mouse poor, and could not even dream of such a beautiful bike.
Time moved on. My finances got better. I now own a '04 Sportster, which I love and which I would be loath to sell, especially to buy a hideous GS oilhead, which would quickly lose value, as well as be unridable by my wife. I have put 100 000km on the Harley but could still resell it at a profit.
But my affection does not blind me to the Sporty's shortcomings. 1000km range? As if! I am looking for fuel a little more than 200km! Suspension is OK, now, and for reasonable roads only. Africa? I'd rather not. And I have a drive belt. MUCH better than a ghastly chain, but prone to damage on a gravel road.
Yes I am aware of the ElectraGlide Harley of Peter and Kay Forwood, to date the only vehicle of ANY KIND to be ridden/driven in every country in the world. So I could use my Sporty. With suitable modifications. Some of which may decrease the pleasure I currently get while riding it!
Meantime, the search for a rebuildable R80 GS or R100GS continues.
Rob Hall
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