1933 BMW R4

Frame no. P88554
Engine no. 84321

Recognizing the need for a less expensive model to complement its top-of-the-range twins, BMW introduced its first single-cylinder design – the R39 – in 1925. Powered by a 247cc overhead-valve engine, the R39 came with a three-speed gearbox while featuring shaft drive like the larger models. However, by BMW's standards the R39 was not a great success, and this first single-cylinder model was discontinued at the end of 1926. The early 1930s Depression brought with it the need for an even simpler, and cheaper, model to compete with the lightweight two-strokes mopping up the lucrative up-to-200cc market. BMW responded with another single – the 192cc R2 – which appeared early in 1931 and sold well despite the difficult trading conditions, as did the 398cc R4, a favourite with police forces and the German Army. Intended to bridge the gap between the 'budget' R2 and the expensive twins, the R4 looked much like the former, whose channel-section steel frame and running gear it used almost unaltered. The overhead-valve engine featured enclosed valve gear and produced 12bhp, gaining an extra two horsepower in 1933 when the R4 was updated to Series II specification with revised styling and a four-speed gearbox. R3 (300cc) and R35 (350cc) singles appeared later in the 1930s, all enjoying the benefits of shaft drive like their larger siblings.

This BMW R4 is part of the stunning Gerhard Schnuerer Collection and just like any vehicle from that collection, the bike was taken care of as a museum piece, restored, serviced, maintained and kept to the highest standard possible years after years. A large history file retracing the bike's history up until the late-1990s and various correspondences between Mr. Schnuerer and BMW specialist will be handed to the buyer after the sale.