BMW R 65 (1980-1981) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1980, the German motorcycle maker released the BMW R 65, a touring motorcycle in its third consecutive production year, with the same package as the previous one, delivering the same specifications without any significant modifications.

The BMW R 65 was a light touring motorcycle introduced by BMW in 1978 as a mid-sized motorcycle. It was designed by German engineers to fit the taste of both experienced and less experienced riders among BMW fans.

The 1980 BMW R 65 was powered by a 649cc flat-twin engine with an output power of 45 hp at 7,250 rpm and 45 Nm (33 lb-ft) of torque at 6,000 rpm and a five-speed manual transmission that made it possible for the bike to reach a top speed of 175 kph (109 mph).

The bike had a telescopic fork on the front with 175 mm of travel and dual shock absorbers on the rear with 110 mm of travel, offering optimum suspension performance and handling.

As for the braking power, the motorcycle was controlled by a single brake disc mounted on the front wheel and a single drum braking unit mounted on the rear wheel, providing optimum stopping performance.

In the aesthetic department, the 1980 BMW R 65 had standard features, such as multi-spoke lightweight aluminum alloy wheels, a round headlight upfront, a one-piece dual seat, a two-into-two exhaust system with a muffler mounted on each side, dual shock absorbers on the rear, and a center stand.