For the 1970
model year, BMW entered the age of modern motorcycles with three new models
having engine capacities of 500cc (R50/5), 600cc (R60/5), and at the top of the
line 750cc (R75/5).
It stopped
production of the last “Slash-2” models, with their Earles forks, kick
starters, 6-volt electrical systems, woeful brakes, and frames that descended
from prewar BMWs (but bikes that still evoke nostalgic passion in some of us).
The new,
“Slash-5” series of BMWs offered 12 volts, electrical starters(!) as well as
the retained kick starter, telescopic forks, and improved brakes. BMW also
introduced nonmetallic fenders and taillight housings for the first time.
For the second half of the 1973 model year, BMW lengthened the rear swingarms, resulting in that is known now as the “long wheel base” 1973½ “LWB” models.
For these reasons, and its 750cc power, the 1973½ R75/5 is one of the most desirable of the “slash-5” models — although some enthusiasts prefer the 1970 models because they were the first “slash-5s.”
