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2022 Shannons Summer Timed Online Auction
Lot
90

1954 BMW R25/3 Motorcycle

$11,000

Sydney

Sold

Specifications

Engine Single cylinder, 247cc
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Colour Black
Trim Black

Auction
Notice (Form 11)

Description

This lot is no longer available

BMW's tradition of building high quality motorcycles dates back to the first R32 of 1923 and the company quickly developed a reputation for technical innovation and attractive, streamlined styling.  With demand for cheap, reliable transport booming in post-war Europe, BMW's range of single-cylinder motorcycles sold in unprecedented numbers and the R24/25 series of the late 1940s and early 1950s proved hugely popular in the domestic market, thanks in no small part to a restriction limiting engine capacity to 250cc imposed by the Allied forces.  When the R25 came along in 1950, a new welded tubular steel frame with sidecar mounts was adopted, along with plunger rear suspension and improvements to the engine.  The R25/2 of 1951 evolved into the R25/3 of 1953 with further advances, including a larger fuel tank, 18-inch alloy wheels, full hub width brakes and hydraulically damping forks.  The R25/3 was powered by the M224/4 version of the single-cylinder engine, with square bore and stroke of 68mm, raised compression ratio of 7:1, improved intake and exhaust systems and either a Bing 1/24/42 or SAWE R24F carburettor.  Power was up to 13 hp at 5600 rpm as a result.  These beautifully made motorcycles are now very popular with collectors and can hold their own with the best British bikes of the era.