In 1973, the new /6 models brought a new frame with a reinforced steering head and swingarm pivot, hydraulic steering damper, BMW’s first front disc brake, and BMW’s first five-speed transmission. At the insistence of sales chief Bob Lutz, the R 90/6 got BMW’s largest-ever boxer engine. The bike seen here was purchased new by Clifford “Jack” Houk, who replaced its wire wheels with Lester mags before he was killed in a car accident. It went to Houk’s brother Paul before being passed down to his son Stephen in the 1990s. “It has been loved by all of us, and I enjoy knowing I have it from my father,” Stephen says.

For more pictures and information on this or any other vehicle in the Motorcycles exhibit, check out the exhibition book in our store!