THIS is a BMW R65LS — a sleek, sporty version of the standard R65. With its out-of-this-world design, by designer Hans Muth. BMW hired Muth, who had already put his stamp on the original Suzuki Katana, to create an edgy, affordable sport/touring bike for a market that was increasingly being won over by an innovative Japan. With its sharp angles and sporting disposition, Muth’s creation sparked a definitive “love it” or “hate it” reaction, but he was truly far ahead of his time because even today it stands out without even trying. Something timeless.

At 649.6ccs and with a compression ratio of 8.2:1, the LS houses the same engine as the standard R65 –a short-stroke version of BMW’s legendary air-cooled, four-stroke opposed twin. With a bore of 82mm and a stroke of only 61.5mm (versus 70.6mm in other boxers), the result is a narrower engine with a relatively larger bore allowing bigger valves. The LS also shares the standard 65’s frame, suspension and shaft drive. Another difference between the LS and the standard R65 are dual disc brakes with Brembo calipers on the front wheel, as opposed to a single disc on the standard, which blesses the LS with excellent braking power.

An exceptional variation of an already great bike, this is an opportunity to have rare quality. It was limited production, with less than 6500 made.