/5 Wheelbases

[boxertwinjeff]

Where L.W.B. models only introduced on the '73 models, or where they
an option on earlier year models?
See I've bought a luggage rack ( not yet arrived) off a '71 R75 and am now
wondering if it's going to fit my '73. Can I modify it without to much
hassle if needed? Cheers Jeff.

[Garnet]

The LWB models appeared mid way through 73 at the dealers, I'm not sure what the production date change was, someone here will.

The SWB racks and bag mounts are generally harder to find, and sometimes worth more, so don't cut it up to modify it. Most /6 or /7 racks will fit on a LWB with no mods.

I have mounted LWB Krauser bags on a SWB by simply drilling new holes in the bike's subframe. Perhaps that will work for putting your new rack on as well.

[Motorhead]

nOPE

A Kruser rack or any LWB rear rack will need the bar mounts shorted so a rear rack from a SWB will not have the long bars long enough

[Duane Ausherman]

At the time, we called the LWB a 73 1/2 model. I seem to remember that we got them in February of 73, but could be wrong. That would make it almost 1/2 way through the production year. Of course we were on the left coast, so we got bikes a couple of weeks later than the east.

[StephenB]

Where L.W.B. models only introduced on the '73 models, or where they
an option on earlier year models?
See I've bought a luggage rack ( not yet arrived) off a '71 R75 and am now
wondering if it's going to fit my '73. Can I modify it without to much
hassle if needed? Cheers Jeff.

I have a '72 SWB and wouldn't mind taking that '71 (Krauser ?) luggage rack of you in case it won't fit your '73 which most likely is a LWB. Check Duane's page on how to figure out what you have (from memory, a LWB /5 has a 2in extension of the swingarm welded in close to the rear flange).

[SteveD]

Postage might be a killer Stephen.

[StephenB]

Ah ... OZ ... you might be right! Never mind ...

[boxertwinjeff]

Your correct there Duane, going by my bikes numbers 4001555, that tells me
Feb '73 after checking the year model listings. Her engine block reads something else,
but we won't go there again!!

[templetommy]

FYI I have a 73/5 built in 01/73 it is a LWB and is stock was first sold in LA I am the 2nd owner
Templetommy

[slash2man]

I have a red 73 LWB toaster with nice original paint and all and the steering head tag shows build date of 12/72. Thanks Arch.