Age/occupation?
I am 75 and retired.
Current mileage on the RS and how often do you ride it?
85,130…..This is my Florida bike and I try to ride at least once a week. I had stored this bike for 16-17 years after my son was born and started riding it again in 2003 when he turned 16.
Where did you purchase this bike and who was the dealer or shop?
I purchased it in Denver at Golden Motorcycle dealership in October 1979.
What was the out the door price then?
I think I paid $5,500-$5,800.
Was there a discount as a year old model?
No discount for a leftover model as there were very few 1978 RS models available.
You sold a 77 R100S to your brother to fund the purchase of the RS, which was smart as you now have that bike again. How did the RS compare to the S?
Even though both bikes share the same basic platform I feel there is a world of difference between them. The riding position of the RS is more aggressive so that the center of gravity changes handling. The cast Snowflake wheels make it feel more firmly planted. And of course, the fairing cuts thru the wind for a more stable ride at speed. I have also added several modifications to change the handling characteristics. I realize the engines are the same but the RS feels to “pull” stronger at a lower rpm (2,250-3,200) than the S.
Did you like the Metallic Gold color right away or did it have to grow on you ?
At first, I was not crazy about the color as bikes in that time period were painted in more subdued paint colors. But it did grow on me and I am happy to have that unique color now.
There are no decals on the battery covers. Did those come with the bike and you chose not to install them?
I still have the original decals but opted not to install them when I bought the bike.
Did this come with a first aid kit and cable lock (in the frame)?
There was no first aid kit but there is cable lock, a simple tire patch kit and I still have the original shop rag and tire pump. I also have the original riders manual and manufactures ID plate.
What was the appeal of the RS when you bought it and did it live up to your expectations?
The appeal of the RS was the beautiful fairing, and the incredible wind protection that made it a long distance touring machine. I have had many 500+ mile day rides and just last year I had two back-to-back 600 mile days. It stills lives up to my expectations today. I had a 1200 GS that I gave my son last year. As when I wanted to ride, I always tossed my leg over the RS
Did you get replacement wheels under the recall?
The front Snowflake wheel was replaced under warranty I’m guessing in the late 90’s or early 2000’s.
Any other issues with the bike that needed dealer service in its first 5-10 years of service?
The bike needed no warranty or dealer service.
There is an aftermarket fork brace—any other modifications or changes on the bike?
San Jose front fork brace
San Jose Upper triple clamp
San Jose modified strengthened swing arm
Progressive rear shocks and front fork springs
Dyna III electronic ignition
Upgraded diode board
Larger capacity oil pan
Braided front and rear brake lines
Reynolds luggage rack
Krauser bags and mount
This was the first year of the rear disc brake. What have been your experiences with it? Good, bad, indifferent? And would you have preferred to have a drum brake on the RS?
The rear brake is barely adequate and the front brake setup is adequate for braking.
Other friends and riders ask you when you are selling it?
I have had a few people ask if I was interested in selling but I declined.
Anything else of note?
The clock still works and keeps great time. I still have the chrome crash bars but took them off very early on as I thought they distracted from the look of the bike.
I rebuilt the carbs twice replaced pushrod seals twice and do all the maintenance as needed.
Being able to do all of the work on the bike myself is another reason that I love the Airheads.
