1970 BMW R75/5

1970 BMW R75/5

touring70sGermany

BMW released the 1970 BMW R75/5 in 1970 with a 745cc OHV flat-twin powerplant making 50hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV flat-twin
Displacement
745 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
50 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque
54.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
82.0 × 70.6 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Bing carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Shaft

Performance

Top Speed
175 km/h (109 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
200 kg (441 lbs)
Wet Weight
216 kg (476 lbs)
Seat Height
800 mm
Wheelbase
1440 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
17.0 L

History & Story

When BMW unveiled the 1970 BMW R75/5 in 1970, it signaled the company's commitment to the touring motorcycle segment. Built in Germany, this touring motorcycle embodied the spirit of 1970s motorcycling.

At the heart of the 1970 BMW R75/5 sits a 745cc OHV flat-twin engine producing 50 horsepower at 6200 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 2x Bing carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 5-speed transmission and shaft final drive.

Weighing 200 kg (441 lbs) dry, the 1970 BMW R75/5 uses a steel double cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1970 BMW R75/5 achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 17.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for touring motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1970 BMW R75/5 is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of BMW motorcycling from 1970s.

Known Issues

  • Final drive spline wear on shaft-drive models
  • Pushrod tube seal leaks
  • Rocker arm wear
  • Starter motor brushes wear over time

Fun Facts

  • The 1970 BMW R75/5 is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
  • The 1970 BMW R75/5 was produced in BMW's Germany facilities
  • The 1970 BMW R75/5 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts