Naked Motorcycles
1988BMW R 65
19 fields on record
The 1988 BMW R 65 is a lightweight middleweight cruiser powered by a dependable 649cc air-cooled boxer twin, delivering 48 horsepower. Its manageable weight and shaft drive make it ideal for riders seeking comfortable, reliable touring and everyday riding. Known for its classic styling and user-friendly nature, the R 65 appeals to enthusiasts valuing simplicity and durability over performance.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Boxer, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 205.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 48.0 HP (35.3 kW) @ 7250 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Best suited to relaxed commuting and leisurely backroad rides rather than performance riding.
- Built for
- A mellow, understated air-cooled boxer with old-school charm and unhurried shaft-driven torque delivery.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking strong acceleration, sporty handling, or off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Power
- 48.0 HP (35.3 kW) @ 7250 RPM
- Engine type
- Boxer, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2341 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 82.0 x 61.5 mm
- Compression
- 8.7:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
Performance
- Top speed
- 178.0 km/h (110.6 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 90/90-18
- Rear tyre
- 120/90-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1980 | 1983 | 1987 | 1988 | 1989 | 1992 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 22 L | 22 L | 22 L | 22 L | 22 L | 22 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the BMW R 65?
The 1988 BMW R 65 has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the BMW R 65 have?
The 1988 BMW R 65 has a Power of 48.0 HP (35.3 kW) @ 7250 RPM.
How many gears does the BMW R 65 have?
The 1988 BMW R 65 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the BMW R 65 weigh?
The 1988 BMW R 65 has a Wet weight of 205.0 kg (451.9 pounds).
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