Naked Motorcycles
1981BMW R65
19 fields on record
The 1981 BMW R 65 is a lightweight classic boxer twin ideal for riders seeking accessible, reliable everyday riding. Known for its robust air-cooled engine, comfortable ergonomics, and shaft-drive simplicity, it delivers dependable performance with minimal maintenance. Its manageable power delivery and 204kg weight make it perfect for both novice and experienced motorcyclists.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Boxer, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 204.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 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
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 7250 RPM
- Engine type
- Boxer, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2451 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 82.0 x 61.5 mm
- Compression
- 9.2:1
- 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
- 175.0 km/h (108.7 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 3.25-18
- Rear tyre
- 4.00-18
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 | 1981 | 1983 | 1986 | 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 R65?
The 1981 BMW R65 has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the BMW R65 have?
The 1981 BMW R65 has a Power of 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 7250 RPM.
How many gears does the BMW R65 have?
The 1981 BMW R65 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the BMW R65 weigh?
The 1981 BMW R65 has a Wet weight of 204.0 kg (449.7 pounds).
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