BMW R1200R
I am new on the sidecar deal, but would like to put one on my R1200R. Found a used Ural sidecar, my question is how difficult will it be to adapt the mounting system to my bike?
Are URAL sidecars good to begin with? or should I look for something different?
The one I found has drum brakes, which concern me because it differs from the bike disc brakes.
I appreciate any comments or recommendations.
A mount set is available for the R1200C. Not being all that BMC savvy I don't know what the difference is between the two models. Sometimes it's just fairings and accessories.
The URAL can be converted to disc brakes (pricey) or a separate pedal can be mounted for independent operation. I've used the latter method since the disc brake setup still leaves a lot to be desired for a good linked system. I'd rather use no brake with the URAL since a disc will give erratic braking at best.
The URAL sidecar is well matched to the BMW bikes. They are after all a BMW clone. The /2 mounts will have to be upgraded to adjustable mounts. Some welding may be needed to accomplish this, depending upon how old of a sidecar you have. Later models have a pinch tube at each lower mount and won't need to be altered. Earlier models have a welded on collet mount that must be removed and replaced with a pinch tube to accept an adjustable mount. These will attach to the bike mounted sub-frame and give you infinite adjustability to align and level the sidecar correctly.
You may or may not want to consider steering modifications to ease the steering after a sidecar is installed. If this is done the steering will be very easy but the bike can no longer be used as a solo bike with trail reduction.
A steering damper may also be needed to eliminate nose wiggle at slow speeds.
Lonnie
Lonnie, thanks for all this information, is very helpful. I enjoy riding my bike solo, the sidecar is only an added feature so I can take my dog with me. So making modifications to the bike is not an option.
The truth is, I am still debating between a sidecar or a good trailer. Seems that a sidecar would require a lot of work just to put on and off.
Most people don't take the hack off more than once or twice. It's too labor intensive and gets to be a hassle.
You might consider an inexpensive secondary outfit for taking the dog. Many others do this so they can leave their solo tourer intact.
There are quite a few turnkey older rigs that show up for sale here in the classifieds. All you need is a bit more storage space.
Your pooch would love it.
Lonnie

I will 2nd Lonnie's suggestion re: an less expensive dedicated sidecar rig for the dog. The power and technology of a R1200R isn't necessary to take to the dog for ride. I suspect you can locate a suitable complete rig for similar cost of converting the R bike.
By the way, we recently acquired a R850R and finally have it roadworthy. Wonder if a Hannigan Sprint would make a sporting combination??
Lee
MB5+TW200+CRF250L+GTV300+INT650
XL883R w/Texas Ranger Sidecar
Zuma 50F + Burgman w/Texas Sidecar<Mrs. SwampFox
You guys are correct. Getting a second rig with a dedicated sidecar is the most logical way to go. And besides, you can never have too many bikes.
thanks for your inputs guys.
Lonnie, just wanted to update you on my search for a sidecar to fit my BMW R1200R.
I am the proud new owner of a 2007 URAL with sidecar. Bought it last week. This is the best!
Although I had never driven a sidecar before, I feel fairly comfortable. Not quite ready for the interstate yet, but will do a trip to Key west in December (about 200 miles from home), and it should be a lot of fun.
Thanks again for the suggestions.
Harold

Congrats on the Ural rig, Harold. How is your dog taking to the sidecar? Be careful learning to drive. Try not to let the dog distract you; that was a little difficult for me. Pics - We need pics if you can.
Lee
MB5+TW200+CRF250L+GTV300+INT650
XL883R w/Texas Ranger Sidecar
Zuma 50F + Burgman w/Texas Sidecar<Mrs. SwampFox
Dog is doing great on the sidecar. I rigged a "seatbelt" that attaches to his harness, so I am not worried about him falling off. That keeps me focus on driving the new rig. I am still very green on this, but practice makes perfection, right??
how do I attach pictures to this thread?
Without photobucket or similar application you can resize pix to under 200kb, check "attach a file after posting" before submitting and follow the instructions. To add to a previous post, go to edit and check add/remove and browse to your pic, then submit.
L.
thanks.
here we go, a couple of pics of the new (2007) URAL Tourist. the thing is a beauty.

Dog and Chauffeur look happy. Be careful. Jena and I both suggest a sidecar training class if available in your area.
Lee
MB5+TW200+CRF250L+GTV300+INT650
XL883R w/Texas Ranger Sidecar
Zuma 50F + Burgman w/Texas Sidecar<Mrs. SwampFox
Good choice on not modifying your R1200R. I have a K1200 LT with a Hannigan 2+2 sidecar. On/off is 10-15 minutes using air tools and the mounts on the bike side are not very noticeable. I usually install the sidecar 4-6 times a year. Easy and quick. I made a storage rack for the sidecar out of 3 Harbor Freight car moving dollies and a chunk of 2x10. Very easy to roll around and minimizes hanger rash.
Enjoy the Ural!
Loren
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