
LOT 206
1975 BMW R75/5 Frame no. 4005222 Engine no. 4005222
Sold for US$3,910 inc. premium
Lot 206
1975 BMW R75/5 Frame no. 4005222 Engine no. 4005222
The Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction|23 January 2020, 12:30 PST|Las Vegas, Caesar's Entertainment Studios
1975 BMW R75/5
Frame no. 4005222
Engine no. 4005222
Frame no. 4005222
Engine no. 4005222
• "The BMW R75/5 is a sweet ride to anywhere."
• A long wheel base model
When the all-new BMW R75/5 was introduced in 1972, many Beemer purists were aghast to the point of apoplexy. At a time when black-with-white-pinstripes was the accepted BMW 'uniform' of the day, here came the R75, looking much more sporty in Monza Blue or Curry Gold or Polaris Silver, among other racy hues—though as seen here, good ol' Schwarz (black) was still available. Even more eye-popping were the chromed panels on the fuel tank and side covers. Because of its rectangular shape and those shiny sides, the so-called 'Toaster Tank' soon entered BMW nomenclature history.
Stylistic updates aside, the R's 745cc opposed-twin engine also had come in for revisions, namely a one-piece forged crankshaft and alloy cylinder barrels with steel liners. Coil ignition and 12-volt electrics were other improvements. The claim was 50hp, good for a 110mph top speed. A new chassis featured a duplex frame with lightweight oval tubing and removable rear subframe, long-travel front forks and (more gasps!) plastic fenders at both ends. Despite the Old Guard's protestations, the restyled machines sold well, for as Cycle World magazine said at the time, "The BMW R75/5 is a sweet ride to anywhere."
This R75 is a LWB (for long wheelbase) model from the latter half of the production run when a 2.5in. longer swingarm was fitted for increased high-speed stability when carrying a passenger and luggage. It is in largely original condition, showing 25,589 miles on the odometer, with just one barely perceptible dimple in one of the tank's chrome panels. Recently serviced, it is ready for more action.
• A long wheel base model
When the all-new BMW R75/5 was introduced in 1972, many Beemer purists were aghast to the point of apoplexy. At a time when black-with-white-pinstripes was the accepted BMW 'uniform' of the day, here came the R75, looking much more sporty in Monza Blue or Curry Gold or Polaris Silver, among other racy hues—though as seen here, good ol' Schwarz (black) was still available. Even more eye-popping were the chromed panels on the fuel tank and side covers. Because of its rectangular shape and those shiny sides, the so-called 'Toaster Tank' soon entered BMW nomenclature history.
Stylistic updates aside, the R's 745cc opposed-twin engine also had come in for revisions, namely a one-piece forged crankshaft and alloy cylinder barrels with steel liners. Coil ignition and 12-volt electrics were other improvements. The claim was 50hp, good for a 110mph top speed. A new chassis featured a duplex frame with lightweight oval tubing and removable rear subframe, long-travel front forks and (more gasps!) plastic fenders at both ends. Despite the Old Guard's protestations, the restyled machines sold well, for as Cycle World magazine said at the time, "The BMW R75/5 is a sweet ride to anywhere."
This R75 is a LWB (for long wheelbase) model from the latter half of the production run when a 2.5in. longer swingarm was fitted for increased high-speed stability when carrying a passenger and luggage. It is in largely original condition, showing 25,589 miles on the odometer, with just one barely perceptible dimple in one of the tank's chrome panels. Recently serviced, it is ready for more action.
Footnotes
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Saleroom notices
Please note, this example is a short wheelbase model.




















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