Highlights

Entirely dismantled and rebuilt piece by piece by a specialist workshop in 2019
The maintaining BMW workshop estimates the preparation value at over €20,000
Recently serviced and professionally diagnosed in early 2026, with invoices available
Registered on a French collection document Carte Grise de Collection with matching serial numbers confirmed
Reported to have been stored under cover and carefully maintained throughout

The Appeal

The BMW R65, with its characterful 650cc boxer twin, has long been prized as one of the finest platforms for custom motorcycle builds. Its inherent reliability, mechanical simplicity and timeless proportions make it an ideal canvas for those seeking something truly individual, and this 1979 example has been transformed into exactly that.

Comprehensively dismantled and rebuilt, piece by piece, by a specialist workshop in La Rochelle in 2019, this R65 features a handmade rear subframe, bespoke carbon fibre components, including a moulded electrical tray and seat base, machined aluminium details, and a striking custom black-and-midnight-blue paint scheme. The electrical system has been modernised with a Motogadget M-Unit Blue module enabling keyless smartphone start, while the front end benefits from a Yamaha RG250 fork and braking system. In 2024, YSS full black custom shock absorbers, LSL Roadster black handlebars and bar-end indicators were also fitted.

The motorcycle has covered approximately 4,500 km since its preparation and is currently maintained by Atelier du Roule Toujours. Earlier this year, a professional mechanical diagnostic was carried out with all necessary work completed, and a recent service included ignition adjustment, carburation and replacement of cables and coils. The vendor reports that the motorcycle starts well, runs healthily and is immediately usable. Invoices and documentation accompany the sale, and the French technical inspection is valid until June 2030.

Key Information

Mileage: 4,500 km shown; the odometer has been replaced or has gone around the clock — the reading reflects distance covered since the 2019 preparation
Country of registration: France, Carte Grise de Collection
Technical inspection status: CT valid until 19 June 2030
Technical specs: 650cc boxer twin, five-speed manual
Paperwork: Invoices for recent servicing and diagnostic work
For the purposes of the photo, we simply placed the BMW badge on top of the existing badge. However, the original badges have since been installed by Atelier du Roule Toujours.

The Detail

Engine dismantled, inspected and refurbished as part of the 2019 build
Handmade rear subframe, carbon fibre electrical tray and carbon seat base with custom red-stitched upholstery
Numerous bespoke carbon fibre and machined aluminium parts fitted throughout
Motogadget M-Unit Blue module installed, enabling keyless start via smartphone
Fork and front braking system sourced from a Yamaha RG250
YSS full black custom shock absorbers fitted in 2024
LSL Roadster black handlebars, bar-end indicators and number plate lighting added in 2024
Service carried out recently, including ignition adjustment, carburation, and replacement of cables and coils (invoice available)
Professional mechanical diagnostic completed earlier this year with all necessary work carried out (invoices to be provided)
Currently maintained by the specialist workshop Atelier du Roule Toujours
The vendor describes the paintwork as in very good condition with good depth and uniform colour
Fairings reported as clean and well-aligned with exterior elements in good condition
Some very slight signs of use consistent with age and mileage reported
Matching serial numbers confirmed

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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