An important step forward in the development of BMW’s long-running flat-twin occurred in 1936 with the introduction of the 494cc R5. Prior to that the BMW engine had been recognizably related to the first of its type, the 1923 R32, and like those of its (500cc) predecessors, the R5’s engine dimensions were ‘square’ at 68x68mm bore/stroke. However, the overhead-valve R5 engine broke new ground by adopting two chain-driven camshafts, a move that permitted shorter pushrods and higher revs. In 1938 the model was up-dated as the R51, gaining a telescopic front fork and plunger rear suspension, and continued in production until 1940. BMW recommenced civilian production in December 1948 with the R24 single, but it would be another 12 months before a twin-cylinder model became available again. This was the R51/2 based, as its designation suggests, on the pre-war R51. Improvements incorporated into the R51/2 included a two-way damped front fork, gearbox main-shaft damper and strengthened frame. In truth, the R51/2 was only a stopgap model to get production under way while BMW worked on something more modern. Its replacement, the R51/3 - arrived in February 1951, and despite the similarity in designation had an entirely new and much neater looking engine incorporating a single gear-driven camshaft and crankshaft-mounted generator among a host of other advances. Attached to a Stoye TM alloy-bodied touring sidecar, this BMW R51/3 dates from 1954: the last year of the teardrop tank, flared fender, plunger frame and neutral finder transmission, and the first year of the full-width hub with straight-pull spokes. The outfit has been fully restored both mechanically and cosmetically by Paul Simeone, of Connecticut. Carried out between 1999 and 2001, the work included rebuilding the motor around a good block (damaged original is included), overhauling the transmission, fitting new wheels (a safety issue with sidecar outfits) and period-correct accessories (deep oil pan and ultra-rare Sport air filter). The combination was purchased by the vendor in 2004 from Paul Simeone, who had owned it for nine years. Its previous history is unknown. A very usable ‘vintage’ rig, it has collected concours awards at various shows including more than one ‘People’s Choice’ (Beverly Hills Classic for Charity XI and XIII). The machine is offered with restoration invoices and Certificate of Title.
An important step forward in the development of BMW’s long-running flat-twin occurred in 1936 with the introduction of the 494cc R5. Prior to that the BMW engine had been recognizably related to the first of its type, the 1923 R32, and like those of its (500cc) predecessors, the R5’s engine dimensions were ‘square’ at 68x68mm bore/stroke. However, the overhead-valve R5 engine broke new ground by adopting two chain-driven camshafts, a move that permitted shorter pushrods and higher revs. In 1938 the model was up-dated as the R51, gaining a telescopic front fork and plunger rear suspension, and continued in production until 1940. BMW recommenced civilian production in December 1948 with the R24 single, but it would be another 12 months before a twin-cylinder model became available again. This was the R51/2 based, as its designation suggests, on the pre-war R51. Improvements incorporated into the R51/2 included a two-way damped front fork, gearbox main-shaft damper and strengthened frame. In truth, the R51/2 was only a stopgap model to get production under way while BMW worked on something more modern. Its replacement, the R51/3 - arrived in February 1951, and despite the similarity in designation had an entirely new and much neater looking engine incorporating a single gear-driven camshaft and crankshaft-mounted generator among a host of other advances. Attached to a Stoye TM alloy-bodied touring sidecar, this BMW R51/3 dates from 1954: the last year of the teardrop tank, flared fender, plunger frame and neutral finder transmission, and the first year of the full-width hub with straight-pull spokes. The outfit has been fully restored both mechanically and cosmetically by Paul Simeone, of Connecticut. Carried out between 1999 and 2001, the work included rebuilding the motor around a good block (damaged original is included), overhauling the transmission, fitting new wheels (a safety issue with sidecar outfits) and period-correct accessories (deep oil pan and ultra-rare Sport air filter). The combination was purchased by the vendor in 2004 from Paul Simeone, who had owned it for nine years. Its previous history is unknown. A very usable ‘vintage’ rig, it has collected concours awards at various shows including more than one ‘People’s Choice’ (Beverly Hills Classic for Charity XI and XIII). The machine is offered with restoration invoices and Certificate of Title.
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.jpg "Quelle: Christie's")
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