Description
BMW commenced motorcycle production in 1923. Their management set the main goal to create a powerful motorcycle for mass production. The first step after the R32 was the R37 model, a powerful but complex and expensive machine. The next step was to reduce production costs
The BMW R47 was launched in 1927 and received a 494cc OHV engine from the R37, a simplified frame and suspension, and only the mandatory electrical's. As a result they were able to lower motorcycle cost by 36% while keeping all of its racing ambition.
Another reason for success was the fact that BMW did not position the R47 as an exclusively racing motorcycle. The purchaser could choose from a variety of options such as a generator, horn and headlight.
This particular R47 is thought to be the oldest genuine BMW motorcycle in the UK, having its 100th birthday next year.
Information supplied by the BMW Group Archives states that this example was delivered on August 19th 1927 to BMW dealer Dornig in Zittau, the southeasternmost city in the German state of Saxony.
BMW Archives confirm the frame and engine numbers are correct for the bike.
The machine was purchased by the current owner on 5th May 1998 from the well known German Classic bike dealer Gunter Rosenberger from New Neiderhofen in Germany.
Following a complete no cost spared restoration in the UK by well known BMW and Norton restorer and collector, Brian Thomas , the bike hit the UK roads in October.
Since then the bike has been part of one of the most prestigious BMW car and bike collections in the UK, and has been used regularly during the Spring and Summer months.
It has completed numerous Banbury Runs and has competed in both the Kop Hill Climb and the Grimsthorpe Sprint and formed part of the BMW display at the March Motor Works at the Goodwood Revival.
Technical specification
Engine: 2 cylinder boxer engine
Displacement: 494cc
Power: 18PS@ 4000rpm
Carburettor: Single BMW-Spezial with throttle and air slides
Bore & stroke: 68 x 68
Gearbox: 3 speed . Hand shift on tank
Length: 2100mm
Width: 800mm
Height: 950mm
Weight: 130kg
Tank capacity: 14 ltr
Top speed: 110kph
Suspension: Single leaf spring on the front forks
Speedo: Mounted in a hole in the fuel tank in front of the fuel filler cap.
Price new: 1850 Mk
No. produced: 1720
The bike is in concours condition and comes with two appearances. It is currently in racing trim with racing handle bars, racing mudguards, exhausts, and twin tanks, but comes complete with the standard handlebars, road going mudguards, rear rack, horn and road going exhaust. An amazing example of one of the rarest and most collectable BMW motorcycles. Light in weight and easy to ride. A practical feature is the centre stand, used on BMW's from 1923 on. Most other makes still had the cumbersome rear stands in the 1920's, some even into the 1930's.
Should you have any questions, require further images or videos or wish to view the bike . please feel free to contact me.
