Description
This motorcycle is Lot 283 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 283
1957 BMW 490cc R50
Registration no. 136 LMP
Frame no. 557555
Engine no. 557555
In the early 1950s, BMW concentrated on refining what were essentially pre-war designs, but by 1955 was ready with a brace of new machines, the R50 and R69. Of 500cc and 600cc respectively, the newcomers inherited the up-dated flat-twin engine introduced on the R51/ 3 a few years previously, but deployed this in all-new cycle parts, the most notable departures from preceding practice being the Earles-type leading-link front fork and swinging-arm rear suspension enclosing the drive-shaft in the right leg - developments first seen on the works racers. Luxury tourers, the R50 and R69 sold to discerning enthusiasts to whom expense mattered little when set against the excellence of BMW engineering.
Our vendor acquired this BMW R50 in 2017 as a non-runner; he proceeded to get the Beemer running, repainted it and fitted a new exhaust, silencer, seat and luggage rack. Since then the machine has covered some 200-300 miles and last ran in 2023. Lack of use, other bikes and other projects are the reasons for sale. The machine is offered with an old-style RF. 60 logbook, a current V5C, instruction manuals, parts book/ repair manual, manufacturer's brochure, and a tool box key.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
