BMW R61 (1938-1941) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1938, BMW released a series of motorcycles which included the R51, R66, R71, and R61 models. The R61 model released in 1938, was the new entry-level model that replaced the R6, from which it took over the side-valve 600cc engine almost unchanged.

Like all the models in the series, the R61 was available with an optional combined hand/foot operated transmission for an extra charge, which most customers refused this additional comfort because was very difficult to operate.

Although the 1938 BMW R61 was cheaper and lagged behind its sister models in all performance values, 3,747 buyers decided to buy the R61.

In 1941, with the second World War going on for two years, BMW halted the production of civilian motorcycles and only manufactured the R12 and R75 models for the military. After the war ended, side-controlled motorcycles were no longer manufactured by BMW.

The 1938 BMW R61 model packed a 600cc air-cooled flat-twin engine with a power output of 18 hp available at 4.800 rpm. With a curb weight of 184 kg (405 lbs), the model had a top speed of 115 kph (71 mph).

The double cradle tubular steel chassis had mounted a telescopic fork with a hydraulic damper acting as a front suspension and a telescopic fork acting as a rear suspension. Two 200 mm brake drums fitted on the front and rear wire-spoked wheels handled the stopping power.