Between 1920 and 1922 the Bavarian Motor Work made their first two-stroke three port motorcycle engine. At only 148 cc, this engine was affectionately called the Flink. With the engine mounted just in front of the foot pedals, this first model looked more like just a bicycle.
In the beginning, the Chief Design Engineer for BMW Motorcycles was Max Friz. Known for being demanding and not being satisfied with things as they are, Max introduced the new model BMW R32 at the Paris Motor Show in 1932. This model became famous for their blue and white paint.
Such developments as the pressed steel frame, telescopic fork, tubular frame and telescopic rear suspension all were important advances from 1935 to 1939. 1955 was really the next milestone for the BMW Motorcycles. Production models for the RS racing bike with the all pivot frame was introduced.
Probably one of the most important upgrades to BMW motorcycles took place in 1970 with the development of the “slash five” series. The R50/5, R60/5 and R75/5 all have the same stroke engines only with different displacements. In addition, all these models had point ignitions. In 1979 these models were laid to rest and discontinued.
Begin 1980 the BMW Motorcycles has changes in order to be more competitive with the Japanese and European bikes. you might hear cheering fans as they applauded the latest improvements such as, updated suspensions, strengthened frames and electronic ignition replaced the points. High performance Brembo brakes and elimination of the heavy flywheel in favor of a stamped steel clutch carrier, were major advances at this time. The 1981 model was so much better than previous versions that the market for used BMW motorcycle was totally destroyed.
The GS series motorcycle was introduced in 1981 and instantly labeled the “Adventure Touring Bike”. The whole concept of the “Adventure Tour Market” started with the BMW R80G/S. And what an adventure it has been ever since.
Executive summary about Electric Bicycle by Chet Waters
