Why The History Of BMW Motorcycles Means Adventure For You
If you love the BMW brand like I do, your enjoyment of the company isn't complete without a brief history of their motorcycles. Over the years I have found that only a handful of people are even aware that BMW made motorcycles. Being so totally captivated by the current BMW car models, motorcycles by BMW have sort of become the "redheaded stepchild" of the business.
But, I plan to change that image right now.
Between 1920 and 1922 the Bavarian Motor Work made their first two-stroke three port motorcycle engine. At only 148 cc, this engine was affectionately called the Flink. With the engine mounted just in front of the foot pedals, this first model looked more like just a bicycle.
BMW had to start somewhere with its design and this was as good a place as any.
In the beginning, the Chief Design Engineer for BMW was Max Friz. Known for being demanding and not being satisfied with things as they are, Max introduced the new model BMW R32 at the Paris Motor Show in 1932. This model became famous for their blue and white paint.
Such developments as the pressed steel frame, telescopic fork, tubular frame and telescopic rear suspension all were important advances from 1935 to 1939. Can you imagine how different the ride must have felt back in the "old days" without modern tires and suspensions? Ouch.
1955 was really the next milestone for the BMW Motorcycle. Production models for the RS racing bike with the all pivot frame was introduced.
Do you know what the "slash five" was in BMW history?
Probably one of the most important upgrades to BMW motorcycles took place in 1970 with the development of the "slash five" series. The R50/5, R60/5 and R75/5 all have the same stroke engines only with different displacements. In addition, all these models had point ignitions. In 1979 these models were laid to rest and discontinued.
A new age begins for the BMW Motorcycle in 1980.
If you listen closely to the sounds of history, you might hear cheering fans as they applauded the latest improvements such as, updated suspensions, strengthened frames and electronic ignition replaced the points. High performance Brembo brakes and elimination of the heavy flywheel in favor of a stamped steel clutch carrier, were major advances at this time
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Why were these changes made to BMW motorcycles?
It all comes down to money. If BMW wanted to continue in the motorcycle business it was mandatory that they make changes in order to be more competitive with the Japanese and European bikes. In fact, the 1981 model was so much better than previous versions that the market for used BMW motorcycle was totally destroyed.
The fact is, everything BMW is about excitement and adventure.
You can prove this for yourself just by this little study of BMW history. The GS series motorcycle was introduced in 1981 and instantly labeled the "Adventure Touring Bike" . The whole concept of the "Adventure Tour Market" started with the BMW R80G/S. And what an adventure it has been ever since.
From 1985 to the present, much advancement has been made. Unfortunately, that story will have to wait and be the subject of one of my future articles.
So for now my friend, are you up for the adventure of a BMW motorcycle?
Chet Waters is the BMW Specialist. Learn How To Find Your BMW And At The Price You Can Afford. Go To:
http://www.bmwsauctions.com
