1956 BMW 590cc R60

BMW recommenced motorcycle production in December 1948 with the R24 single, but it would be another 12 months before a twin-cylinder model became available again. Based on the pre-war R51, this was the R51/2, a stopgap model that got production under way while BMW developed something more modern. The replacement R51/3 arrived in February 1951 and despite the similarity in designation had an entirely new and much neater looking engine incorporating a single gear-driven camshaft and crankshaft-mounted generator among a host of other advances.

At the end of 1954, BMW dropped its existing trio of flat twin models - the R51/3 included - replacing them with the R50 and R69. The engines were little altered, significant changes being confined to the frame and cycle parts, which now featured an Earles-type leading link front fork and swingarm rear suspension. The R67/2, a lower-compression model much favoured by sidecar drivers, was not replaced until the arrival for 1956 of the R60, which used a low-compression version of the 590cc R69 engine. The sidecar market remained an important one for BMW, and the new front fork's bottom link incorporated alternative mounting points giving suitable trail should a 'chair' be attached.

The private vendor purchased this R60 from Greenford-based dealers 'Motorcycles Unlimited' through an online auction in 2018 (see auction listing on file). The R60 had been imported from South Africa and prior to shipment was stamped with the frame number 'AAPV0611260581018' while the BMW plaque fixed to the steering head has the frame number '618066' stamped on it, matching the engine number, while the many South African Motor Vehicle Licences present also list the VIN as '618066' (see import paperwork on file).

Post acquisition the vendor entrusted renowned marque specialist Bob Porecha to recommission the BMW, since when the machine has been used only sparingly and otherwise dry stored.

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 must satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's history, originality, authenticity, mechanical condition, mileage and completeness (or otherwise) prior to bidding.

Accompanying documentation includes the following:

Current V5C Registration Certificate
Online auction listing
2018 purchase receipt
Handbooks
Bob Porecha invoices
Road tax confirmation

Offered with headlamp key.