1968 BMW 594cc R69S
Registration no. SRR 455F Frame no. 664760 Engine no. 664760

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|28 April 2019, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1968 BMW 594cc R69S
Registration no. SRR 455F
Frame no. 664760
Engine no. 664760

• Imported from Canada in 2010
• Professional top-end engine rebuild
• Present ownership since September 2018

BMW introduced its first post-war twin-cylinder model in 1949; this was the R51/2, which was based, as its designation suggests, on the pre-war R51. For the next few years 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 (nominally) 500cc and 600cc respectively, the newcomers inherited the updated, flat-twin engine introduced on the R51/3 a few years previously. This heavily revised power unit was deployed 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 driveshaft in the right leg: developments first seen on the works racers.

A luxury tourer capable of over 100mph, the R69 cost as much as a small family car and sold to discerning enthusiasts for whom expense mattered little when set against the excellence of BMW engineering. The R50 and R69 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 magazine's verdict. Last produced in 1969, the R69S is for many enthusiasts and collectors the ultimate post-war BMW.

This beautiful BMW R69S was purchased in September 2018 having had two previous owners since its importation into UK in 2010. Maintained by marque specialist Bob Porecha, the machine benefits from a complete top-end engine rebuild, including a re-bore, new pistons, valves/guides, and unleaded valve seats. Noteworthy features include a 12-volt alternator and a Bob Porecha sidestand. Accompanying documentation includes Canadian export documents, BMW dating letter, old MoTs ((most recent expired May 2017), V5C Registration Certificate, assorted correspondence, and sundry invoices (including for fitting the panniers and top box).

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
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Motorcycle Spares and Memorabilia Clearance
All purchased lots must be cleared from the sale venue by 7pm Sunday 28 April 2019. All un-collected purchased lots shall then be removed to Bonhams storage facility at: Bonhams Oxford Banbury Road Shipton on Cherwell Kidlington Oxford OX5 1JH Lots will be available for collection from 10am Thursday 2 May by appointment only.
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