Well, the same is true of the old Escorts, but you'd be surprised how many of these things they are selling. Modern engines and suspension systems make a world of difference.
I'm with David on this: the numbers of Escorts made far exceeded the Ks, and their value is high now. I think we (OK, I) calculated last year that there was possibly enough K1300's to support maybe a single 3rd party K specialist. Something along the lines of:
- 2,000 1300-engined bikes in 3 flavours
- 1 service per year at say £300
That's £600k in servicing turnover, but half will be SORNed, so let's say £300k.
But we can double that for other non-scheduled maintenance/parts, so back up to £600k to keep the UK's K1300 fleet running.
If the specialist is really lucky/competent they might get 25% of the UK owners to come to them. The other 75% will be too far away, go to BMW/other 3rd parties, or will never have even heard of the specialist.
Total turnover (not profit): £125k.
Of that, a chunk (20%?) of your income will be going to James Sherlock and Motorworks for secondhand spares, or you have to build up your own dry, heated, shipping container of parts - say 10-20 rat K bikes at £2-3k each.
Takign on the 1200-endogned bikes as well would help, but you're still not going to be
rich beyond your wildest dreams.
Now then, where do I start bulk buying spares for the K
The one on eBay that is, as of Wednesday evening, a mere £1507. Maybe it's just the chain tensioner. You never know your luck.
Centre stand, pannier rails, quick shifter, Ilmberger hugger, and light corrosion thrown in.
