BMW R32 (1923-26)

The BMW R32 was the first motorcycle produced by the German automaker BMW. It was designed and built by Max Friz, the same man who created the BMW aircraft engines during World War I. The R32 was first introduced in 1923 and continued production until 1926. It was a landmark motorcycle, notable for its boxer engine layout in which the cylinders were arranged in a horizontally opposed configuration. This engine design became a trademark of BMW motorcycles for decades to come.

The R32 had a 486cc engine that produced 8.5 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 59 mph. It featured a shaft drive instead of the chain drive that was commonly used in other motorcycles of the time. This made the R32 more reliable and required less maintenance.

The BMW R32 was also notable for its innovative design, including a twin-loop frame that provided greater stability and a telescopic front fork suspension system, which was a new development in motorcycle design. It was also the first motorcycle to feature a rear-wheel brake, which was operated by a foot pedal.

The R32 gained a reputation for its reliability and durability, and it was widely used by police and military forces. It also proved to be successful in racing, winning several events in its early years of production.

Overall, the BMW R32 was a groundbreaking motorcycle that set the standard for BMW’s future motorcycle designs. Today, it remains a classic motorcycle and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

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