Just purchased - R90S

[tiktok]

I have just purchased a 1976 R90S with 80k miles. It is in need of a bit of attention as it's been stood for some time. I'm unfamiliar with BMWs and airheads, but I have rebuilt a couple of vintage Harley Davidsons in the recent past (1973 Electraglide and a 1942U as well a couple of Pre-Evo choppers), so have a level of competence and confidence to take on this bike.

I do have some questions before I start buying things though, any help from the forum members with similar bikes or relevant experience would be much appreciated.

1. Which is a better reference? The BMW Workshop manual, or the Clymer manual?
2. Which specialist tools are worth buying? (eg Exhaust nut wrench)
3. Tyres - I need to replace both due to age. I was thinking the Continental RB2 / K112 as I have run these for thousands of miles on my 1973 Electraglide with no issues - it's a different sort of riding though!

As the bike has a misfire on one cylinder, that's my priority ro resolve. So I shall be flushing the old fuel, cleaning the Dellorto carbs, inspecting the plugs, HT leads, coil and condenser first. Then it will be more thorough inspection and service.

Many thanks

Rick

 

[Gelandestrasse]

Well done on your purchase!

1. Haynes 1970-96 model edition.
2. Exhaust tool is a servicing tool (not specialist). Therefore essential. If you need a specialist tool, like gearbox rear flange removal tool, flywheel holder tool, clutch let-down bolts, front timing cover puller, camshaft removal tool, driveshaft removal/replace tools, I recommend joining the BMW Club to take advantage of the tool hire scheme.
3. I would recommend the Avon Roadrider but there is a gap in production so they are difficult to get in the sizes necessary. Bridgestone BT46 are a good alternative.

Drop the sump.

I'm recommissioning a Daytona 1976 R90S at the moment (I've restored a few) so fairly current. Its final drive and carbs are with Mikeyboy and Charlie for rebuilding (worn splines on FD being replaced, carbs clean and rebuild kits). I've put a new rear main crank seal in, front gearbox seal, rebuilt front calipers, rescued the under-tank master cylinder, brake lines replaced, new discs and pads. Fork rebuild. Changed the tyres, fuel cap (!), and put years of wiring crimes back to standard. Next job is change the rear subframe as the seat hinges are fubared. It's got all new oils throughout and will get tuned up. Parts cost alone will run to £2k.

 

[tiktok]

Well done on your purchase!

1. Haynes 1970-96 model edition.
2. Exhaust tool is a servicing tool (not specialist). Therefore essential. If you need a specialist tool, like gearbox rear flange removal tool, flywheel holder tool, clutch let-down bolts, front timing cover puller, camshaft removal tool, driveshaft removal/replace tools, I recommend joining the BMW Club to take advantage of the tool hire scheme.
3. I would recommend the Avon Roadrider but there is a gap in production so they are difficult to get in the sizes necessary. Bridgestone BT46 are a good alternative.

Drop the sump.

I'm recommissioning a Daytona 1976 R90S at the moment (I've restored a few) so fairly current. Its final drive and carbs are with Mikeyboy and Charlie for rebuilding (worn splines on FD being replaced, carbs clean and rebuild kits). I've put a new rear main crank seal in, front gearbox seal, rebuilt front calipers, rescued the under-tank master cylinder, brake lines replaced, new discs and pads. Fork rebuild. Changed the tyres, fuel cap (!), and put years of wiring crimes back to standard. Next job is change the rear subframe as the seat hinges are fubared. It's got all new oils throughout and will get tuned up. Parts cost alone will run to £2k.

Thank you!

I'll start building a shoppping list. The to-do list sounds reasonable and cheaper than 1940s Harley items. I'll take my time with this bike.

 

[Stirlingmoz]

I have just purchased a 1976 R90S with 80k miles. It is in need of a bit of attention as it's been stood for some time. I'm unfamiliar with BMWs and airheads, but I have rebuilt a couple of vintage Harley Davidsons in the recent past (1973 Electraglide and a 1942U as well a couple of Pre-Evo choppers), so have a level of competence and confidence to take on this bike.

I do have some questions before I start buying things though, any help from the forum members with similar bikes or relevant experience would be much appreciated.

1. Which is a better reference? The BMW Workshop manual, or the Clymer manual?
2. Which specialist tools are worth buying? (eg Exhaust nut wrench)
3. Tyres - I need to replace both due to age. I was thinking the Continental RB2 / K112 as I have run these for thousands of miles on my 1973 Electraglide with no issues - it's a different sort of riding though!

As the bike has a misfire on one cylinder, that's my priority ro resolve. So I shall be flushing the old fuel, cleaning the Dellorto carbs, inspecting the plugs, HT leads, coil and condenser first. Then it will be more thorough inspection and service.

Many thanks

Rick

Congrats on your purchase.

I'm glad you decided to pull the trigger on this bike as I was considering contacting you for the sellers details if you passed (and I really don't need any more bikes)

Looking forward to hearing and hopefully seeing how it goes.

Not sure of your location in the metropolis but I live just o/s the M25 and regularly get up into West London for work. I have a few specialist tools if you discover you have need.

 

[Posh Pete]

Great choice of bike. I suggest you join the BMW owners club re their tool hire scheme. There's also plenty of good advice from current and former airhead owners in the club.