Need ignition key!!

[Made2care]

1978 r100/7
Lost my ignition key. I’m assuming I can get a blank on eBay, remove the ignition from headlight housing to locate the key code and have a key cut?
Thoughts??

[Rob Frankham]

The key code isn't on any of the locks. If you had the bike from new, it would be on a plastic tag which came with the keys... how many current owners still have that? You might also find it on original documentation.

Failing that, a good locksmith might undertake to make a key working from the lock. The only real alternative is to adquire a set of locks for the bike.

A good reason to always have a working spare...

Sorry

Rob

[SteveD]

Dunno, but wondering if the key code can be retrieved by a dealer via the vin number?

[Rob Frankham]

Dunno, but wondering if the key code can be retrieved by a dealer via the vin number?

I think I can safely say no to that. The number was never openly available and, in any case, the records are unlikely to have survived after this time. Some dealers kept a record when they sold a bike... Ive even heard of dealers retaining the spare key... so, if you know who the original dealer was and if they are still in existence, it might be worth a punt... but it's definitely a forlorn hope.

Rob

[Rob Frankham]

FWIW, this page tells you all you need to know about NIeman keys (as used on all airheads) (and a lot you don't need to know)

https://w6rec.com/bmw-motorcycle-fork-a ... iman-keys/

Rob

[barryh]

Is it me or do the pictures not load on that link to Duane Aushermans site.

I'm lucky to have two keys but I've noticed Motobins have key blanks at a good price.


Not a BMW lock but I have dismantled a Mercedes lock and moved the pins around to make it work with the key I had on hand. If the BMW lock is the same principle there are tiny spring loaded pins that the notches of key engage with. The idea is that all the pins end up flush in the lock barrel and allow it to turn. It wouldn't be rocket science to produce a working key if the lock can be dismantled.

[SteveD]

Dunno, but wondering if the key code can be retrieved by a dealer via the vin number?

I think I can safely say no to that. ...

Yeah, looong shot I know. If I had my code (could work it out via the key) I might etch it onto the ign switch body. That way, it stays with that switch.

Is it me or do the pictures not load on that link to Duane Aushermans site.

No pix for me either.

...we couldn’t trust owners with keys. As soon as a new bike came in from BMW, we made two copies of the originals. We kept one original and gave the owner the other original and the two copies. Don’t ever use an original on the bike. It is only for making copies and belongs with your birth certificate and other valuables. Use copies for everything.