BMW R 57 (1928-1930) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1928, BMW launched the R57 model, a motorcycle that entered the category of trail and a successor of the R47.

The R47 was, at the time of its release, a motorcycle with improved details, powered by a two-cylinder boxer engine and a successor to the R37 sports model. As on its predecessor, the R57 boxer engine was mounted longitudinally with the cylinder heads transverse to the direction of travel, and cooling was much better with nothing obstructing the wind.

The 1928 model featured the same engine as its predecessor with a power output of 18 hp available at 4,000 rpm and a three-speed manual transmission with a dry, single-plate clutch.

The bike featured the same tubular steel frame, with a swinging front fork and leaf springs suspension, while at the rear wheel was still no suspension apart from the springs mounted under the seat.

One thing that changed, was the front brake drum, which was 50 mm larger than its predecessors, enlarged from 150 mm to 200 mm in diameter, while on the rear was a transmission brake.

This classic machine from the House of Munich had standard fittings such as a rear luggage rack, a small headlamp, laced wheels, a center stand, a front drum brake coupled to a block brake in the rear, and a 12-liter (3.3-gallon) fuel tank.