So I have this old 73 BMW R60/5 and have recently been day-dreaming about turning this thing into a cafe/race bike. My question is, does this bike fit with WERA? or would I be better suited at an AHRMA or USCRA event.
Looks like 500 GP. Exerpted from the rule book... 500 GP Pre 1965 2 & 4 stroke up to 500cc. Pre 1971 2 stroke singles up to 360cc. Pre 1965 side valve up to 750cc. Pre 1972 European OHV/OHC 4 stroke up to 500cc. Pre 1972 BSA, Norton and Triumph 650’s with restrictions: Original OEM frame, swingarm, motor, 4 speed transmission, 35mm forks , and 30mm carburetors. Among the eligible 500 GP machines are the following: AJS 7R 5 and 6 speed; BMW R50, R60/5 (stock displacement); BSA 441 and 500 singles and twins, 650 (production based) twins; Bultaco 250cc and 360cc singles (round cylinder only); Ducati 450; H-D and Indian side valve 750’s; Kawasaki 350 Big Horn; Matchless G50; Norton 500’s including Manx and 650 (production based) twins; Triumph 500 and 650 (production based twins); Yamaha DS7, RT series, MX 360, DT360. In all GP classes, the chassis/brake/bodywork must be of a type actually available prior to 1972. All five and six speed racing transmissions are allowed except in 650cc pushrod twins. Not sure how competitive your bike would be, but I've seen some fast beemers out there. I'm sure some will be along shortly to give you advice.
The R60 needs a lot of work to be competitive. Lighten the crank, better pistons, different heads, major compression increase, new pushrods, lightened flywheel, upgrade to a 5-speed gearbox, higher final drive gearing, gold valves, shocks, wheels, front brake shoes, etc.... if you run it stock you will hate it.
Air head racer George Mood raced one & it kept him busy swaping cranks. Can't remember if it spun rod or main bearings, maybe both. Gearing can be a problem too.
