BMW R71 (1938-1941) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1938, BMW released the R71 model. which marked a turning point in the history of BMW motorcycles being the last bike with a side-valve engine and the last fitted with a manually operated transmission.

The most iconic innovation fitted on the model was the plunger rear wheel suspension, which had proved successful in the Six Day Race held the previous year.

The BMW R71’s powerful and torquey engine, combined with the front telescopic fork and the new rear suspension, resulted in an ideal long-distance motorcycle suited for fast travel on country roads and motorways.

In the new series, the BMW R71 was the motorcycle with the biggest displacement engine, borrowed from the previous R12 model. Powered by the 746cc air-cooled, four-stroke, boxer twin-cylinder engine, the model developed an output power of 22 hp available at 4,600 rpm and a top speed of 125 kph (78 mph).

Onto the cradle tubular steel frame, mounted on the front side was a telescopic fork with a hydraulic damper for suspension, and on the rear was a telescopic fork suspension. Fitted on the wire-spoked wheels as brakes, the model featured a 200 mm drum on the front and a 200 mm drum unit on the rear.

The 1938 BMW R71 came with standard features such as full fenders, a rear luggage rack, a dual exhaust system, a sprung single seat, and a large round headlight.