The BMW R 65LS is a testament to the marque’s commitment to innovation and refinement. Born in 1981, this 650cc horizontally opposed twin is an enlarged version of the R60, with its motor’s basic design dating back to 1923. With its four-speed gearbox, hydraulically damped forks, and unit construction, the R 65LS embodies BMW’s pioneering spirit.
The engine’s character is defined by its smooth, linear power delivery, making it an ideal companion for both city streets and winding roads. The R 65LS’s riding experience is one of balance and poise, with its 650cc motor providing ample torque for effortless cruising.
As a scaled-down version of the R90/S, the R 65LS brings a more accessible, yet still premium, riding experience to the market. With its sleek design and robust performance, it’s little wonder that the R 65LS has become a beloved classic among motorcycle enthusiasts, and its enduring appeal is a testament to BMW’s dedication to building machines that inspire and delight.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity
39.6 cubic inches / 649.6 cc
Max Power
45 hp / 32.8 kw @ 7250 rpm
Max Torque
45 Nm / 4.6 kgf-m / 33.2 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
5.8 US gallons / 22.0 L
Weight (Wet/Kerb)
465 lbs / 207 kg
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
BMW R 65LS
Year
1981
Engine
Engine Type
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement
39.6 cubic inches / 649.6 cc
Bore x Stroke
82 x 61.5 mm
Compression Ratio
9.2:1
Max Horsepower
45 hp / 32.8 kw @ 7250 rpm
Max Torque
45 Nm / 4.6 kgf-m / 33.2 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Engine Management System
2 x Bing constant depression carburetors
Cooling System
Air cooled
Performance
Top Speed
n/a
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Gearbox
5 Speed
Final Drive
Shaft
Electrical & Electronics System
Starter
Electric
Chassis & Suspension
Front Suspension
Telescopic hydraulic forks
Front Suspension Travel
6.9 inches / 175 mm
Rear Suspension
Long swinging arm with adjustable strut
Rear Suspension Travel
4.3 inches / 110 mm
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tire Size
3.25 – S18
Rear Tire Size
4.00 -S18
Front Brakes
2 x 260mm discs, 2 piston calipers
Rear Brakes
Single 200mm disc, 1 piston caliper
Dimension & Weights
Fuel Tank Capacity
5.8 US gallons / 22.0 L
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight
465 lbs / 207 kg
Features
650cc horizontally opposed twin engine
82mm bore
61mm stroke
Overhead valves per cylinder
Fuel and air mixture is compressed 8.2 times
Large pistons for strong bottom power
7600 rpm redline
40 ponies of power at the rear wheel
Two-into-two exhaust setup
Balance tube between pipes
Five-speed transmission
Dry clutch
Hydraulic damped telescopic forks
Unit construction of motor and gearbox
Encased transmission and motor housing
Four-speed gearbox (mentioned as a BMW pioneering feature, but not specific to the R65LS)
Modern body work and paint scheme (similar to the R90/S)
Scaled down version of the R90/S
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*We strive to provide the most comprehensive and accurate specifications possible. However, certain details may not be available if the manufacturer did not disclose them or if the information is no longer publicly accessible. If you find any discrepancy with any data on this site, please feel free to let us know at contact@throttlecraze.com
