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LOT 262

The David Plant Collection c.1962 BMW 590cc R69S Registration no. 999 NMK Frame no. 656735 (see text) Engine no. 656735

Sold for £7,475 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 262

The David Plant Collection, c.1962 BMW 590cc R69S

The David Plant Collection
c.1962 BMW 590cc R69S
Registration no. 999 NMK
Frame no. 656735 (see text)
Engine no. 656735

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 swing-arm rear suspension enclosing the drive-shaft 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 R50/69 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 magazine's verdict.

This R69S is an older restoration (the engine turns over). It should be noted that the frame is numbered '656735' to the applied manufactures plaque, while the stamped frame number appears to have been partially eroded, possibly by grit blasting. Purchased by our vendor in 1995, the machine is offered with old/current V5/V5C documents.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Offered with 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.

Please see the Auction Information and Guide for Buyers at the top of the main sale page, for bidders' obligations. The Spring Stafford Sale

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 26 April, with the auction starting at 11:30am BST.

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  • 25 April 2026, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
  • 26 April 2026, 09:00 - 17:00 BST

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