BMW R 45 (1982-1983) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1982, the German motorcycle maker released the BMW R 45, a motorcycle in its fifth consecutive production year that packed the same technical, visual, and performance specifications as the previous one without significant modifications.

The bike debuted in 1978 and continued production until 1985. It was available in two versions, a less powerful one with 27 hp on tap and a more powerful version with 35 hp on tap with a claimed top speed of 160 kph (99 mph).

In 1979, the 27 hp model was the best-selling motorcycle in Germany, and by the time it was revised in 1980, the maker produced over 15,900 units. In addition, by the time it ended production, over 28,150 units were manufactured.

In the performance department, the 1982 BMW R 45 had its soul brought to life by a 453cc four-stroke air-cooled twin-cylinder boxer engine that delivered an output power of 27 hp at 6,500 rpm and 38 Nm (28 lb-ft) torque at 5,500 rpm.

The motorcycle's aesthetic department was characterized by standard features, such as a front fender mounted close to the wheel, a round headlight, a one-piece dual seat, side-mounted rear shocks, a two-into-two exhaust system with a silencer mounted on each side, a center stand, and multi-spoke aluminum wheels.

The bike was built around a steel frame with a telescopic fork on the front and a single brake disc, while the rear end was handled by two side-mounted shock absorbers and a drum braking unit.