Otis Singleton
BMW motorcycles have been at the forefront of innovation and design for decades. The introduction of an electric start to their motorcycles in 1969 with the R75/5 model was a significant milestone, offering riders the convenience of starting their bikes with the push of a button. This article will explore the history of BMW motorcycle design, the impact of the electric start, and its influence on the riding experience and motorcycle technology.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year of first BMW motorcycle with electric start | 1969 |
| First model with electric start | R75/5 |
| Engine type of first model | 750 cc |
| Other models with electric start | R 50/5, R 60/5, R 60/6, R 75/6, R 90/6, R 90 S, R 80/7, R 100/7, R 100S, R 100RS, R 1100 GS, R 850 GS, K 1200 LT, R 80 RT, R 80, K 100 RS, K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, M 1000 XR, CE 02, CE 04 |
| Year of first model | 1923 |
| First model | R 32 |
| Engine type of first model | 486 cc flat-twin petrol engine |
| Latest model | M 1000 XR (prototype) |
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What You'll Learn
- The first BMW motorcycle with electric start was the R75/5 model, released in 1969
- The R75/5 featured redesigned engines with upgraded crankshaft bearings
- The electric starter was initially supplied as an option for the R 50/5
- Since 1969, most BMW motorcycles have been equipped with electric start
- BMW has been a pioneer in motorcycle innovation and technology for over 90 years
The first BMW motorcycle with electric start was the R75/5 model, released in 1969
The BMW Motorrad brand has been producing motorcycles for over a century, with its first motorcycle, the R 32, released in 1923. Since then, BMW has released several motorcycle models, with each model showcasing advancements in technology and design.
In 1969, BMW introduced the world to its first motorcycle with an electric start, the R75/5 model. This model was part of the BMW /5 range, which also included the 500 cc BMW R 50/5 and the 600 cc BMW R 60/5. The R75/5 model stood out not only for its electric start but also for its powerful 750 cc engine.
The inclusion of an electric starter in the R75/5 model was a significant innovation for BMW motorcycles. Prior to this, starting a motorcycle often required the use of a kick starter, which could be cumbersome and inconvenient. With the electric start, riders could now start their bikes with the simple push of a button, making their riding experience smoother and more comfortable.
The introduction of the electric start in the R75/5 model set a precedent for future BMW motorcycle designs. Since then, most BMW motorcycles have been equipped with electric starts as standard, and the company has continued to build on this feature with additional advancements.
The R75/5 model played a pivotal role in the evolution of BMW motorcycles, marking the beginning of a new era of convenience and innovation. This model showcased BMW's commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology into its designs, a tradition that the company proudly continues to this day.
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The R75/5 featured redesigned engines with upgraded crankshaft bearings
The BMW R75/5 motorcycle was first introduced in 1969 and was manufactured until 1973. The R75/5 was part of the BMW /5 range, which also included the 500 cc R50/5 and the 600 cc R60/5. The R75/5 featured a 750 cc engine capable of producing around 50 horsepower and reaching top speeds of 110 mph.
The R75/5's engine was a complete redesign, with upgraded crankshaft bearings and a relocated camshaft. Specifically, the crankshaft bearings were upgraded from roller bearings to shell-type journal bearings, the same type used in modern car engines. This change allowed for a lower centre of gravity, improving the motorcycle's handling.
The R75/5 also featured a number of other upgrades compared to its predecessor, the /2 series. For example, the chain-driven camshaft was relocated to allow for more ground clearance, and a modern 12-volt charging system was introduced. Additionally, BMW cut weight on the /5 series, with plastic fenders and a lighter chassis, improving the power-to-weight ratio and handling.
The R75/5 was replaced by the BMW R75/6 in 1974, as part of the BMW /6 range. The R75/6 featured further upgrades, including disc brakes and improvements to the electrics.
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The electric starter was initially supplied as an option for the R 50/5
The BMW R50/5 was first introduced in 1969 as part of the /5 range, which also included the R60/5 and R75/5 models. The R50/5 was intended as a successor to the BMW R 50/2 used by government agencies. It was regarded as the "little" ("kleine") five hundred cc in comparison to its bigger-engined siblings.
The R50/5 was in production from 1970 to 1973, with engine capacities of 500 cc. The 1972 model introduced a 15 L rectangular tank with chrome side panels, and the rear swingarm was lengthened by 2 inches (5 cm) in the second half of the 1973 model year. This lengthening resulted in the "long-wheelbase" (LWB) models, which improved stability at higher speeds and when loaded.
The /5 models featured air-cooled, four-stroke, opposed-twin (boxer) engines with hemispherical combustion chambers. The camshaft was chain-driven and located underneath the crankshaft, lowering the centre of gravity and improving ground clearance. The engines were also upgraded from roller bearings to shell-type journal bearings, the type commonly used in modern car engines.
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Since 1969, most BMW motorcycles have been equipped with electric start
BMW motorcycles have been at the forefront of innovation and technology for over a century. The company's first motorcycle, the R 32, was released in 1923 and featured a flat-twin petrol engine, a recirculating wet sump oiling system, and a top speed of 95-100 km/h. This model also started the tradition of shaft drive, used on all BMW motorcycles until 1994.
In 1969, BMW introduced the /5 range, consisting of the 500 cc R 50/5, the 600 cc R 60/5, and the 750 cc R 75/5. This range offered several upgrades, including redesigned engines with upgraded crankshaft bearings and chain-driven camshafts located underneath the crankshaft. Notably, the R 75/5 model was the first BMW motorcycle to feature an electric start, making it easier and more convenient for riders to start their bikes with the push of a button.
In 1974, the /6 range replaced the "/5" models, offering upgraded engines, a five-speed gearbox, improved brakes, and enhancements to the electrical system. The kick starter was eliminated from BMW motorcycles in 1975.
BMW has a long history of pioneering safety features in motorcycle design. In 1988, BMW introduced anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to its motorcycles, setting a new benchmark in the industry. By 2013, all BMW motorcycles were fitted with ABS as a standard feature.
Today, BMW continues to innovate with models like the CE 04, an electric scooter designed for urban mobility, and the CE 02, an electric freerunner aimed at young riders. BMW motorcycles are known for their advanced features and technologies, providing riders with a smooth, comfortable, and safe riding experience.
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BMW has been a pioneer in motorcycle innovation and technology for over 90 years
BMW has been at the forefront of motorcycle innovation and technology for almost a century. The company's first motorcycle, the BMW R 32, was released in 1923 and featured a flat-twin engine, also known as a "boxer-twin" engine. This engine design has endured, with BMW still producing motorcycles with flat-twin engines today.
Over the years, BMW has continued to push the boundaries of motorcycle technology and performance. In 1937, Ernst Henne set a world speed record on a BMW 500 Kompressor racing motorcycle, reaching 279.5 km/h (173.7 mph). The BMW R 71, with its big flat-twin engine, was an iconic model for the company, known for its exceptional engineering. However, production was disrupted by World War II, making original R 71 bikes rare and highly sought-after today.
The post-war era saw BMW continue to innovate, with the release of the R 50/5 model in 1969, which introduced the electric starter to BMW motorcycles for the first time. This model also featured a redesigned engine with upgraded crankshaft bearings and a chain-driven camshaft located underneath the crankshaft, lowering the centre of gravity.
BMW's commitment to innovation continued in the following decades, with advancements such as the introduction of the "6" model range in 1974, which included a 900 cc engine and a five-speed gearbox. The company also introduced the world's first hydraulically dampened telescopic fork with the R 12 touring model and the R 17 sport model, enhancing ride stability and comfort.
More recently, BMW has remained at the forefront of motorcycle technology with developments such as the use of carbon chassis and rims in the HP4 RACE, providing superior strength and rigidity. BMW was also the first motorcycle manufacturer to offer an adaptive headlight, enhancing safety during night riding. The company is also committed to sustainability, as evidenced by the fully electric C evolution scooter.
With a rich history of innovation, BMW continues to shape the future of motorcycling, ensuring that motorcycles remain a vital part of the mobility landscape.
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Frequently asked questions
BMW motorcycles introduced an electric start in 1969 with the R75/5 model.
No, the electric start was supplied as an option for the R 50/5.
The BMW /5 range was introduced in 1969, consisting of the 500 cc BMW R 50/5, the 600 cc BMW R 60/5, and the 750 cc BMW R 75/5 models.
The BMW /5 range featured a lightweight double-loop frame with a bolted rear frame, long-stroke telescopic fork, and rear swing arm. The engines were also redesigned with upgraded crankshaft bearings and chain-driven camshafts located underneath the crankshaft.
