BMW R42 1927, Alemanha

BMW R42 1927, Alemanha
Fotografia

BMW was established as an aircraft engine manufacturer in 1917 to supply Germany’s military during World War I. The Treaty of Versailles put an end to all armaments manufacture in Germany, and as such, BMW was forced to find new engines to build. The company turned to motorcycle engines in 1920, supplying flat-twins to other manufacturers like Victoria before taking up the mantle of motorcycle manufacturer in 1923 under designer Max Friz. BMW’s first production motorcycle, the 1923 R32, was a simple yet revolutionary design. Flat-twin engines had been built before, notably by Douglas and ABC, but BMW’s adoption of the design included a shaft drive, which became indelibly attached to the brand. BMW rapidly developed its flat-twins from that first R32, updating the motor with detachable aluminum cylinder heads in 1926 for the R42. The R42 was significantly more powerful—12 HP vs 8.5 HP—and handled better, as the engine was placed lower and further back and the frame was strengthened with straighter tubes. The brakes were improved with a drum up front, and the rear clamped on a small drum on the actual driveshaft. The 3-speed gearbox was still bolted to the motor, and the kickstarter acted through a bevel gear so that it arced in line with the chassis rather than across the frame, as with all BMWs after 1928. The R42’s looks were modernized with slimmer fenders, and electric Bosch lighting and a horn were an expensive option. This beautifully restored 1927 BMW R42 is an extremely rare machine, as the model was built for only three years (1926-28) and production was low. A very rare flat-tank example that is coveted by collectors, this 1927 BMW R42 is a very correct machine, and it’s utterly charming in its lightweight (277 pounds), slim design and very efficient configuration.