c.1953 BMW 247cc R25/2 Frame no. 282243 Engine no. 302198 (see text)

c.1953 BMW 247cc R25/2 Frame no. 282243 Engine no. 302198 (see text) Please kindly note that this motorbike will be available for viewing by prior appointment in Dortmund: please contact eva.lengler@bonhams.com for booking. BMW's first new post-war model, the 247cc R24 can traces its roots back to the R23 of 1938. Developed from the 198cc single-cylinder R20 of 1937/38, itself a development of BMW's best-selling R2, the 247cc R23 was produced between 1938 and 1940. The reintroduction of a 247cc model had been prompted by changes in German licensing laws, which had removed the favourable concessions previously enjoyed by machines up to 200cc, instituting a new up-to-250cc category instead. Powered by an overhead-valve engine producing 10bhp, the R23 came with a four-speed gearbox and featured shaft drive like the larger models. Weight with a full tank of fuel was 297lbs and the top speed around 60mph. Its R24 successor arrived in 1948 looking virtually unchanged but producing an additional 2bhp. In mid-1950 the R24 was superseded by the R25, which featured plunger rear suspension but was otherwise very similar. An improved R25/2 version was introduced during 1951 incorporating a stronger crankshaft and minor revisions to the front mudguard stays and seat springing. Built between 1953 and 1956, the final R25 variant - R25/3 - featured a new telescopic front fork, full-width alloy hubs and alloy wheel rims as the principal upgrades. This R25/2 is offered with a German Fahrzeugbrief (registration document). The engine turns over and the machine comes with a headlamp key. It should be noted that the frame and engine do not match, the latter being from an R25/3. Footnotes: Please kindly note that VAT at the prevailing german rate (currently 19%) will be added to the buyer's premium which will be invoiced on a VAT exclusive basis. If you are planning to export, please make the department aware. Lot to be sold without reserve. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing