My experience is that balky down shifting is a sign that your bike needs the transmission input splines re- lubed. It is a part of routine care. Your bike is 40+ years old, and if your odometer reading is true and correct, it may have never been done.
My advice to new airhead owners is to get used to the 3k or higher RPM base line and use the gears to maintain road speed at that RPM range. For me, in town riding, my R75/5 (owned since 1989) essentially has a 2 speed transmission up to 45 MPH.
The Airheads Beemer Club is the best resource for owning and riding these magnificent antique motorcycles. Lovely bike, by the way.
Al the best,
James A...
My advice to new airhead owners is to get used to the 3k or higher RPM base line and use the gears to maintain road speed at that RPM range. For me, in town riding, my R75/5 (owned since 1989) essentially has a 2 speed transmission up to 45 MPH.
The Airheads Beemer Club is the best resource for owning and riding these magnificent antique motorcycles. Lovely bike, by the way.
Al the best,
James A...
