KIWI RIDER 06 2019 VOL.2 | Page 71

The model that Graeme arrived with was a K75C, a lighter three-cylinder version of the K100, introduced in 1986, with a 750cc motor producing 75bhp. An American motorcycle journal reported, “they [the K75s] were instantly highly rated, and favourably reviewed, compared to the heavier, hotter, and at the time, more vibration prone 4-cylinder big brother K100”. Although the bikes were essentially the same, the loss of one cylinder reduced the weight of the K75 by around 23kg. Riding behind a K75 it’s possible to identify the smaller bike by the muffler which is triangular for three cylinders, instead of square indicating four cylinders, as on the bigger bike. Graeme bought the K75C 18-years ago. It’s a 1987 model. The bike has clocked up 148,036 kms. Graeme reports “Tyres, batteries, and plugs have been replaced several times, and the only mechanical problems have been usage predictable; clutch plate, fork seals, rear shock, and front discs. Any other problems seem to be relatively minor and predictable. After 25-years, the plastics in the handle bar switch blocks began to fail, so I replaced them.” This is certainly an impressive record for a 32-year old bike, and it is not, I can say with a degree of authority, a classic trophy that is kept only for sunny Sunday afternoons. K75 on centre stand Left-side engine detail Twin disc front end Triple muffler Sharing your passion facebo ok.com /Caffein eAndCla ssics