Own a Masterwork of Cafe-Racer Style With This 1973 BMW R75/5
Motorcycles & ATVs
Motorcycles
Jared Vermeulen knew what he wanted when he spotted this pretty BMW BMW R75/5 in a local collection. Jared shipped the Beemer home to Jupiter, Fla., finished the build, and enjoyed the ride. Now, this 1973 R75/5, recently listed on eBay is ready for its next home.
A gentleman had it in Fort Lauderdale. He had a few old air-cooled BMWs in his man cave and had started to ‘cafe’ the bike but wanted to focus on other projects. I could tell that he took care of his machines really well.
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Thoughtfully Modified
Jared has a mechanical background, including some time served at a motorcycle shop in his youth. He was well-equipped to complete the cafe-racer build on this BMW BMW R75/5 to create a totally unique ride.
I wanted a build that was still true to the vintage nature of the bike. Lots of these BMWs end up with blacked-out motors, but when this one was rebuilt, it was cleaned and left in its original appearance.
It’s clear Jared adores this bike.
It has spent its life with me being babied in an air-conditioned garage. Although I’d love to keep it, the time has come for it to make someone else very happy.
Show and Go
The excellent photos in the eBay listing show Jared’s high-quality handiwork and good taste. The result is a bike that mixes classic BMW looks with signature cafe-racer styling. The BMW R75/5's iconic boxer twin engine - opens in new window or tab., shaft drive, front forks - opens in new window or tab., and tank remain, while the seat, fenders, bars, and exhaust are all modified for that stripped-down cafe look.
The BMW features many brand-new parts, but wherever possible, Jared restored the original equipment.
Everything has been refurbished from the ground up, not just for looks but for safety.
And how is it to ride?
It’s such a pleasure. A pure return to riding at its roots.
Just one warning for the next owner: This bike isn’t for the shy.
Every place you go, people want to talk about the bike and its heritage. You’d better be ready to converse!
A Legend of the Road, With Plenty of Road Ahead
The R75/5 was BMW’s range-topping motorcycle in the early 1970s, equipped with a 750-cc BMW engine - opens in new window or tab. capable of whisking the bike to 110 mph. BMW first began building boxer bikes in the 1930s, and the R75/5 was the result of four decades of development. By the time this example rolled off the assembly line, BMW’s powerful touring bike was a strong and thoroughly sorted machine. Production ended in July 1973, meaning the example you see here is likely one of the last built.
Jared will include all the original parts and a few spares in the sale, and the bike comes with a clean Florida title. After that, all you’ll need is a modern helmet with retro style—like the Custom 500 Riff Bell helmet - opens in new window or tab. —and a set of vintage Lewis leathers - opens in new window or tab.. As always, eBay has you covered with everything you need to enjoy the ride.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.