The BMW R62, a motorcycle of unparalleled exclusivity and performance, was the crown jewel of BMW’s lineup in the late 1920s. With a top speed of 70 mph, it was a lightning pace for its time, and its hefty price tag made it a luxury item for the wealthy few who could afford it.
Only 4,355 units were produced, and those who were lucky enough to own one were often doctors, businessmen, and other members of Germany’s upper echelons. The R62’s impressive 745cc engine, producing 18 horsepower, was a marvel of engineering, and its Baukastensystem design, which shared components with the less expensive R52, was a testament to BMW’s innovative approach to manufacturing.
From an industrial design perspective, the R62 is a stunning example of the German Bauhaus philosophy, incorporating elements of architecture, art, and sculpture into its sleek, modernist design. With its 6-leaf spring front suspension and coil spring rear suspension, the R62 was a bike that handled the rough roads of the time with ease.
Today, the BMW R62 remains an iconic symbol of BMW’s rich history and a testament to the company’s commitment to performance, innovation, and style, and it remains a sought-after collector’s item for motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Engine Capacity
745 cc / 45.5 cu in.
Max Power
13.4 kw / 18 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity
12.5 liters /3.3 US gal
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
BMW R 62
Year
1928 – 2029
Engine
Engine Type
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Displacement
745 cc / 45.5 cu in.
Bore x Stroke
78 x 78 mm
Compression Ratio
5.5:1
Max Horsepower
13.4 kw / 18 hp
Engine Management System
1 xSpezial 2 valve ∅24 mm carburetor
Cooling System
Air cooled
Performance
Top Speed
n/a
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Clutch
Single plate, dry
Gear Ratios
1st 2.83 / 2nd 1.55 / 3rd 1.08:1
Electrical & Electronics System
Starter
Kick
Chassis & Suspension
Frame Type
Twin loop steel tubular frame
Front Suspension
Plate spring, 6 laminae
Rear Suspension
Rigid, spring loaded saddle
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tire Size
26 x 3.5″ or 19 x 3.0″ or 27 x 2.75″ or 21 x 2.5″
Rear Tire Size
26 x 3.5″ or 19 x 3.0″ or 27 x 2.75″ or 21 x 2.5″
Front Brakes
∅200mm Drum
Rear Brakes
External shoe brake at the gearing on Cardan shaft
Dimension & Weights
Fuel Tank Capacity
12.5 liters /3.3 US gal
Features
70 mph top speed
745cc swept capacity
18 hp engine
Twin loop tubular steel frame
6 leaf spring front suspension
Coil springs rear suspension
Horizontally opposed engine
3-speed transmission
Shaft drive
Baukastensystem (modular system)
Same engine, gearbox, and ancillaries as the R52
New crankshaft, barrels, cylinder heads, and pistons
1,650 Reichsmarks price (1928)
Only 4,355 units produced
Exclusivity due to high price
Reliability due to BMW engineering acumen
Bauhaus design philosophy
Pressed steel frame (in predecessor R11)
Similar design to R11
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*We strive to provide the most comprehensive and accurate specifications possible. However, certain details may not be available if the manufacturer did not disclose them or if the information is no longer publicly accessible. If you find any discrepancy with any data on this site, please feel free to let us know at contact@throttlecraze.com
