BMW K 75 (1985 -86)

BMW K 75 (1985 -86)

The BMW K 75, introduced in 1985, boasted a revolutionary 3-cylinder engine with a balance shaft and shaft rear drive, a design that would set the tone for BMW’s future inline-3 offerings.

With a 68hp engine and Bosch LE-Jetronic analog fuel injection, the K 75 delivered a smooth and responsive riding experience. The drivetrain remained consistent throughout its production run, with minor upgrades, allowing riders to enjoy the same thrilling performance from the get-go.

As the K 75’s variants – including the sport faired K75S, the fully-faired K75 RT, and the US-only naked K75T – demonstrated, this bike was designed to handle a wide range of riding styles, from touring to sport riding. Whether on the highway or twisties, the K 75 proved to be a true BMW classic, one that would go on to become an icon of the era. The BMW K 75 was a groundbreaking motorcycle that would leave a lasting impression on the world of motorcycling.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour-stroke, horizontal three cylinder in-line, DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity740 cc / 45 cub. in.
Max Power55 kw / 75 hp
Max Torque68 Nm / 6.9 kgf-m / 50 ft lb @ 6750 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity21 liters / 5.54 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)500 lbs / 227 kg
Seat Height31.9 inches / 810 mm
BMW K 75 (1985 -86)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW K 75
Year1985 -86

Engine

Engine TypeFour-stroke, horizontal three cylinder in-line, DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement740 cc / 45 cub. in.
Bore x Stroke67 x 70 mm
Compression Ratio11.0:1
Max Horsepower55 kw / 75 hp
Max Torque68 Nm / 6.9 kgf-m / 50 ft lb @ 6750 rpm
Engine Management SystemElectronic injection, Bosch LE-Jetronic
Lubrication SystemWet sump
Cooling SystemLiquid cooled

Performance

Top Speed196 km/h / 122 mph

Transmission

ClutchSingle dry plate
Gearbox5 Speed
Gear Ratios1st 4.50 / 2nd 2.96 / 3rd 2.30 / 4th 1.88 / 5th 1.67:1

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeDouble-downtube frame with engine as a stressed member; box-section aluminum monolever swing arm.
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork with hydraulic shock absorber.
Front Suspension Travel7.3 inches / 185 mm
Rear SuspensionMonolever swinging arm.
Rear Suspension Travel4.5 inches / 114 mm

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size100/90-18 56H
Rear Tire Size120/90-18 56H
Front Brakes2 x ∅285mm discs, 2 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle ∅285mm disc

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2220 mm / 87.4 in.
Overall Width900 mm / 35.4 in.
Overall Height1300 mm / 51.2 in.
Seat Height31.9 inches / 810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity21 liters / 5.54 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight500 lbs / 227 kg

Features

  • 3-cylinder engine with a balance shaft
  • Shaft rear drive
  • Bosch LE-Jetronic analog fuel injection
  • Engine rated at 68hp
  • 0-60 time of 4.7 seconds
  • Five basic variants
  • K75T: US-only naked variant
  • K75C: bikini-faired variant
  • K75S: sport faired variant
  • K75: naked standard variant
  • K75 RT: fully-faired variant
  • Engine variations were developed due to noise and emission regulations
  • Inline four with 1300cc and a 1000cc triple were considered but deemed too long and heavy
  • Decision to shorten the K4 engine by one unit (K3)
  • Many parts shared between K3 and K4 engines
  • Counterweights added to take-off shaft for K75 to reduce vibrations
  • Clutch rotating in opposite direction to reduce tilting moment
  • Jolt damper modified for reliability
  • Modified dry clutch used for R80 model
  • Power increased to 75hp with modified combustion chamber and higher compression
  • Compression ratio of 11:1 requires premium fuel
  • Unleaded fuel allowed for K75 (early K100 require leaded fuel)
BMW K 75 (1985 -86)
BMW K 75 (1985 -86)
BMW K 75 (1985 -86)

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