BMW R 47 (1926-1928) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1926, BMW released the R47, a motorcycle with improved details, powered by a two-cylinder boxer engine and a successor to the R37 sports model. At the same time, the R42 was presented and built as a simpler touring model that featured the same chassis and a side-valve engine.

The R47 and R42 models featured the same chassis, transmission, and engine, but the R47 had a slight increase in power due to the differences in the cylinder heads and cylinders. The touring model had standing valves, while the sports model had overhead valves.

The boxer engine was mounted longitudinally with the cylinder heads transverse to the direction of travel therefore the cooling was much better with nothing obstructing the wind.

The boxer 494cc twin-cylinder air-cooled engine designated as M 51 was two hp more powerful than the previous model with a power output of 18 hp available at 4,000 rpm, which for the first time benefitted from slight soundproofing.

The tubular steel frame did not feature a rear suspension other than the spring mounted under the seat but featured a front suspension composed of several leaf springs mounted above the front fender.

The 1926 BMW R47 came with standard features such as a single sprung seat, a rear luggage rack, pull-back handlebars, laced wheels, long fenders, and a small luggage rack in the front.