BMW R 16 (1929-1934) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1928, at the London Olympic Show, BMW Motorrad presented the first two motorcycles that featured a newly designed frame. The BMW R11 and R16 turned away from the common tubular steel frame used on the previous models and pointed their attention to the newly designed torsion-resistant pressed steel frame.

The 1929 BMW R16 sports model was powered by the engine used on its predecessor, the R63. With a displacement of 736cc, the two-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke engine had a power output of 25 hp with a peak at 4,000 rpm and packed a three-speed manual transmission. With a curb weight of 165 kg (363 lbs) and 25 hp, the model reached a top speed of 120 kph (74 mph).

Onto the double loop pressed steel frame was mounted on the front side a fork with a swingarm and nine-leaf plate springs that acted as a front suspension and the rear side was rigid with the wheel mounted directly to the chassis and a minimal suspension system consisting of two springs was mounted under the seat.

In the braking department, the 1929 BMW R16 packed on the front wire-spoked wheel a 200 mm drum unit acting as a front brake and an external shoe mounted on the cardan shaft that acted as a rear brake.

The classic Beemer came fitted with a dual exhaust system, wide handlebars, and a large round headlight.