BMW R 45 (1978 – 79)

BMW R 45 (1978 - 79)

The BMW R 45: a compact, yet potent addition to the BMW family. Its oversquare engine, featuring a fiat-twin configuration with pushrods and rockers, delivers a smooth and efficient ride.

Two stages of tune are available, producing 26bhp for the German market and 35bhp for the rest of the world. The export version boasts a peak power of 7250rpm and maximum torque of 27.51 ft-lbs at 5500rpm.

The R 45’s performance may not be its strongest suit, but it will reach a top speed of approximately 95mph. In contrast, its fuel efficiency is impressive, with an average of 55-60mpg achievable. The bike’s 4.8-gallon fuel tank and five-speed gearbox with shaft drive make it well-suited for touring. Standard features include cast-alloy wheels, audible warnings for the indicators, twin mirrors, electric starter, and a plug for an intercom device. The R 45’s exceptional finish comes at a price, however, with the smallest BMW produced being more expensive than many 750s.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Engine Capacity453 cc / 27.6 cu in.
Max Power20 kw / 27 hp
Max Torque37.5 Nm / 3.82 kgf-m / 27.65 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity5.8 US gallons / 22.0 L
BMW R 45 (1978 - 79)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW R 45
Year1978 – 79

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Displacement453 cc / 27.6 cu in.
Bore x Stroke70 x 61.5 mm
Compression Ratio9.2:1
Max Horsepower20 kw / 27 hp
Max Torque37.5 Nm / 3.82 kgf-m / 27.65 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Engine Management System2 x Bing V65 carburetors
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speedn/a

Transmission

Gearbox5 Speed
Final DriveShaft

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterKick

Chassis & Suspension

Front SuspensionTelescopic hydraulic forks
Front Suspension Travel175 mm / 6.9″
Rear SuspensionLong swinging arm with adjustable strut

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size1.85 – B18
Rear Tire Size2.50 – B18
Front Brakes2 x 260mm Disc, 2 piston caliper.
Rear BrakesSingle 200mm drum

Dimension & Weights

Fuel Tank Capacity5.8 US gallons / 22.0 L
Dry Weight185 kg / 408 lbs

Features

  • Oversquare engine
  • 26bhp for the German market, 35bhp for the rest of the world
  • Peak power at 7250rpm, maximum torque at 5500rpm
  • Fiat-twin configuration engine
  • Valves operated by pushrods and rockers
  • 5-speed gearbox
  • Shaft drive
  • Single cross-drilled disc at the front
  • Powerful drum at the rear
  • Cast-alloy wheels
  • Audible warnings for the indicators
  • Twin mirrors
  • Electric starter
  • Plug for fitting an intercom device
  • 4.8 gallon fuel tank
  • Excellent fuel consumption, 55-60mpg average
  • Top speed of approximately 95mph
  • 473cc engine
  • Hefty 4251b weight
BMW R 45 (1978 - 79)
BMW R 45 (1978 - 79)
BMW R 45 (1978 - 79)

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