Beschreibung:

In the early 1950s BMW concentrated on refining what were essentially pre war designs, but by 1955 was ready with a brace of new machines, the R50 and R69. Of 500cc and 600cc respectively, the newcomers inherited the updated flat twin engine introduced on the R51/3 a few years previously, but deployed this in all-new cycle parts. The most notable departures from preceding practice being the Earles type leading link front fork and swinging arm rear suspension enclosing the drive shaft in the right leg, these developments were first seen on the works racers. A luxury tourer capable of over 100mph, the R69 cost as much as a small family car and was sold to discerning enthusiasts to whom expense mattered little when set against the excellence of BMW engineering. The R50/69 were produced until the arrival of the slightly more powerful 'S' versions for 1961. The larger of these, the R69S, produced 42bhp and was good for a top speed of around 110mph. 'Luxury roadster with superb high-speed performance yet docile traffic manners; magnificent steering, roadholding and brakes,' was Motor Cycle's verdict. This fabulous example of this popular and iconic Germany motorcycle has recently been completely restored, the restoration included its rare Heinrich fuel tank. The bike is presented with its original Dutch paperwork and since the restoration has covered a mere 70 km. This bike resided in a private collection before the present owner purchased it and presented it to auction.