Description
This motorcycle is Lot 397 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on October 10th – 11th, please see the Bonhams Motorcycles Website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 201 - 407 are to be sold from 11AM local time on Sunday 11th October 2026.
Public Viewing:
Available 10th & 11th October 2026 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Staffordshire County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 397
1979 BMW R65
Registration no. GDG 4V
Frame no. 6342009
Engine no. 6342009
BMW extended its range of horizontally opposed twins in the late 1970s with the introduction of the R45 and R65. Looking very much like scaled down versions of BMWs larger models, the duo, which shared identical cycle parts, featured sharper, more modern styling while both weight and overall dimensions were reduced. "The R65 really is an amazing all-rounder," declared Bike magazines tester back in 1982. "Theres 100mph performance, 57mpg if youre gentle and 41mpg if youre not, a five-gallon tank that makes touring England at weekends a less anxious business than it usually is, superlative brakes, a comfortable riding position, excellent tyres, long travel suspension and handling that will get you out of trouble over and over again. Add shaft drive and relatively smooth power and you should be marketing a winner. So why dont you see more R65s on British roads?" The answer was, of course, price: at £2, 363 in 1982, the R65 was over £600 more expensive than the faster Suzuki GS650 Katana, which likewise offered the convenience of shaft drive.
This R65 was purchased recently from the previous owner, who had kept it stored in his living room since 1992. No previous history is known. Our vendor has since recommissioned the BMW and got it running but may require further recommissioning for road use. The machine is offered with a V5C document, rider's handbook, and BMW service booklet.
£2, 000 - 3, 000
All lots are sold ‘as is/ where is’ and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness, mileage, engine capacity and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
