1956 BMW R-Series

552346 / 655686

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0 0 1 617 3520 Quadrant Engineering 29 8 4129 14.0 Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE 1956 BMW R50/1961 R69S. Why two model numbers you ask? Read on… This is a 1956 R50 motor (engine number 552346) installed in a later build, but otherwise period correct 1961 R69S frame (frame number 655686). There were no significant differences, at least that I am aware of, between the R50 and the R69S- other than the motor. I do not have the history of how this bike came to be so I can’t tell you if just the motor was replaced in an otherwise complete 1961 R69S or if a 1961 R69S was the donor of a frame for and otherwise complete 1956 R50. I will include a blank ID plate which you can stamp w/ whatever info you want. (It is currently titled as a 1956 R50 with a 655686 VIN). The actual mileage is unknown – it is currently showing about 9300 miles on the odometer, but I’m confident it was reset or replaced at some point in time. In any case, the bike is excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition. It is NOT a 100 point concours show bike, but could probably be made that way without too much effort. The paint on the bodywork and saddlebags is nice and shiny with very few chips or scratches. The frame paint has a little more patina, but is largely free of any defects (frame has mounting lugs for a sidecar). Pinstripes are nicely hand done (although perhaps a bit over the top on the saddlebags). All the chrome on the bike was re-done about 6 years ago and shows well, the only defect being the the plating cracked on the bar clamps when they were spread to accept the bars (note: for this style bar, the clamps and bars should probably be plated as one piece?). The bike has alloy rims with chrome-plated spokes – the plating on the spokes has deteriorated and the bike would benefit from a re-lacing of the wheels with SS spokes (less than $200 expense). The engine castings are clean w/ no damage. Valve covers are NOS replacements (originals are included – one has a broken fin). The bike includes a full set of Craven saddlebags with a correct rack. They are nearly pristine with no signs of damage or repairs to the fiberglass boxes. It also includes the rare dual solo saddle option (two Denfeld saddles). Also included is a complete NOS BMW tool kit. Mechanically, the bike is a good runner, usually starting on the first kick (even after it was laid up for almost 2 years!), shifts smoothly through the gears, and cruises well at highway speeds (well – up to about 60 to 65 MPH – a 26 HP R50 is no speed demon). Slingers were done about 10 years and 1500 miles ago. Has new SS pushrod tubes. Heads were de-coked and valves re-lapped about 3 years ago. Cylinders, pistons, and rings were inspected at the same time – no issues. Cylinders were re-painted before reassembly. Dual drum brakes work well . All the electrics are sorted – has a good magneto – and a 6V battery. Tires are virtually new Metzlers. The bike also includes a “batwing” fairing with a tall windscreen, not currently installed, but painted to match the bike. Probably subtracts 10 MPH from the top speed! If I was to keep the bike, here are some of the things that could use attention to bring it up to show quality: (1) Rebuild wheels with SS spokes, soda or bead blast hubs while you’re at it. (2) Bush and recut threads for one of the idle air adjustment screws on the Bing carbs – it is a little sloppy. (3) Trip odometer doesn’t always work – I think the reset shaft/knob needs adjustment or lubrication. (4) Consider tearing the bike down and repainting or powder coating the frame. (5) Replace the bar clamps with SS ones. (6) Find an R69S motor and restore this bike to an early R69S – it would then easily become a $20K+ bike. I can deliver the bike via enclosed trailer anywhere in the Northeast (Maine to DC) for actual expenses plus hotel if over 500 miles round trip from Boston. Otherwise, you’ll need to arrange your own shipping (I can deliver to a local freight depot if needed, but you’ll need to make arrangements for a pallet, crating, etc.) Selling the bike simply because I have too many and this one simply does not get ridden enough – it needs to go to a new owner that will give it the love it deserves!