BMW 1955 R25/3 245 cc 1 cyl OHV 3410

BMW 1955 R25/3 245 cc OHV single frame & engine # 314862

Built to the same exemplary standards as the Bavarian company’s famous flat-twins, the single-cylinder BMW first appears in 1925 as the 247 cc R39. Throughout the twenties and thirties singles are brought out in various capacities, ranging from 198 cc to 398 cc. For some years after the war Allied restrictions prevent German companies to produce machines of greater capacity than 250cc, so BMW’s first postwar model is a 247 cc single, the R24, brought out in 1948. In 1950 an improved model is presented, the R25. This is equipped with rear suspension, a refined engine and a welded tubular frame with sidecar mounts; the R24’s frame was bolted up. Engine dimensions are 68x 68 mm and the power output is 12 hp @ 5600 rpm. More than 23,000 machines are sold and when the updated R25/2 enters the scene in 1951 only minor modifications are deemed necessary. An important one though is the fitting of a new type of saddle without vertical springs, the “floating saddle”. This saddle significantly enhances the riding comfort. In 1953 the last version of the R25, the /3 is introduced. This model is fitted with new front forks that have a longer travel and two-way damping and provide better roadholding. Full width brakes are now fitted that give excellent braking and optically the machine gets a sleeker look: the petrol tank changes and the tool compartment is moved from the top of the tank to the left side, the wheel size becomes smaller and the exhaust gets a torpedo-shape. When the last /3 models leave the factory in 1956, almost 48,000 have found a satisfied customer.
The machine we present comes in unrestored condition and is in need of some tender love and care. She is quite complete and original though and is fitted with a Denfeld full-floating saddle