Description
BMW 1929 R57 494cc ohv transverse twin frame # 27450 engine # 70486
The first BMW, the 500 cc side valve R32, was marketed in 1923. Two years later an OHV version was brought out, the R37. This machine had the smallest production run of all commercially produced models in the company’s motorcycling history: only 175 were produced. In 1926 the R42 saw the light: it was based on the R32 but some modifications had made it faster and more practical: the brakes were improved and the engine got light alloy removable cylinder head. The R42 had an ohv brother, the R47. The R42 / R47 models were further developed and in 1928 their successors were presented, the side valve R52 and the overhead valve R57. The R52 was produced for 2 years, the R57 lasted one year longer. The latter produced 18 HP while the side valve machine came to 12 HP.
This sports tourer has been restored a few years ago to a high standard. She comes with Bosch full electric lighting and electric Bosch FD 6A2 horn. Leather bags are mounted on the luggage carrier and tank top. The built-in speedometer is a VDO instrument with BMW logo. This R57 spent most of her life in Italy. The accompanying documents go back to 1935. She starts on the first kick and is an excellent runner (video available).
2023 is the 100th anniversary of BMW motorcycle production, and this R57 represents an exciting opportunity to own an early example of BMW‘s motorcycle history in the marque’s 100th anniversary year.