1961 BMW 590cc R69S
Registration no. 645 KNK Frame no. 655536 Engine no. 655536

The Spring Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|23 April 2022, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1961 BMW 590cc R69S
Registration no. 645 KNK
Frame no. 655536
Engine no. 655536

The vendor, a now retired motorcycle dealer, believes that this BMW R69S's displayed mileage of 3,559 is the total covered from new although this is not warranted. The motorcycle was given to him in 1993 by its original owner, a grateful customer. The bike has been laid up for a number of years due to the vendor's poor health. At some point during this period the previously bone dry storage area became damp due to drainage problems from a neighbouring house and garden. By the time the vendor became aware of this situation, the BMW's previously excellent cosmetic condition had deteriorated somewhat. However, it should be noted that the engine turns over and all the gears select however the mechanical condition is unknown.

The following components are supplied although not currently fitted: a pair of stainless steel exhaust pipes & silencers in apparently good condition, one carburettor (the other is fitted), the fuel tap, side stand, a toolkit (most of which is believed original, with only a few items missing), and the original BMW instruction manual. A V5C and steering lock key are supplied, but the air cleaner assembly and ignition key are noticeably missing. Accordingly prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the motorcycle's completeness and mechanical condition prior to bidding. Recommissioning and some restoration will obviously be required to return it to its former glory.

This is a rare opportunity to purchase a potentially very low mileage two owner R69S, which is offered for sale only because of the vendor's advancing years and recent ill health. Sold strictly as viewed.
Offered without key

Footnotes

All lots are 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.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
From 28 June 2025, the import into the EU of non-EU property of a certain age (and in some categories above a certain value) is subject to additional requirements. Under the relevant EU Regulation, it is the Buyer's sole responsibility to assess whether any Lot meets the criteria for import into the EU. The refusal of any required Import License or Importer Statement, or any delay in obtaining such License or Statement shall not give rise to the rescission or cancelation of any Sale, nor allow any delay in making full payment for the Lot.
Buyers' Premium and Charges
Like the vast majority of auctioneers Bonhams charge a Buyer's Premium on the Hammer Price of each Lot purchased and this is subject to VAT. Some lots may also be subject to VAT on the Hammer Price and these lots will be clearly marked with a symbol (†, Ω, *) printed beside the lot number.
For Automobilia the Buyer's Premium is 28% on the first £40,000 of the hammer price; 27% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £40,001 up to and including £800,000; 21% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £800,001 up to and including £4,500,000 and 14.5% of the hammer price of any amounts in excess of £4,500,001.
For Motor Cars and Vehicle Registration Numbers the Buyer's Premium will be 15% on the first £500,000 of the hammer price of each Lot, and 12% on the balance thereafter.
A 3rd party bidding platform fee of 4% + VAT of the Hammer Price for Buyers using the following bidding platforms will be added to the invoices of successful Buyers for auctions starting on or after 6th July 2024 – Invaluable; Live Auctioneers; The Saleroom; Lot-tissimo.
VAT at the standard rate is payable on the Buyers Premium by all Buyers, unless otherwise stated.
Payment Notices
For payment information please refer to the sale catalog.
Shipping Notices
For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licences please contact Bonhams Shipping Department.
- Motorcycles