1951 BMW R-Series

Description: BMW R67/2 1951 matching Numbers Barn Find sixth of 4234 units worldwide produced!! TRIPLE MATCHING NUMBER Discovery and Historical Context In May 2024, we unearthed a BMW R67/2 barn find in the charming village of Carmelo, Uruguay. This remarkable motorcycle was discovered in a small farmhouse near the Estancia de Narbona, an area rich in both historical and natural significance. Carmelo and Estancia de Narbona Carmelo, located in the Colonia department of western Uruguay, is known for its picturesque setting on the shores of the Río de la Plata. This city, known for its wineries, is surrounded by the rural beauty of thick forests and tranquil streams. Just 13 kilometres from Carmelo and 10 kilometres from Nueva Palmira, the Estancia de Narbona stands as one of Uruguay’s most historically significant sites. Founded in 1732 by Spanish settler Juan de Narbona, this 18th-century ranch is a National Historical Monument. The estate features colonial architecture with thick walls, high gabled ceilings, and a viewpoint offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The on-site Narbona Chapel, housing the image of the Virgin of Candelaria, and a mysterious funeral tunnel add to the estate's allure. The Discovery Our company, RetroMotorTeile, founded in 2002, has a long history of trading vintage BMW motorcycles to US & Europe, particularly R51, R5 & R6 prewar models. In our pursuit of rare finds, we came across an intriguing lead about a BMW motorcycle in Carmelo. An elderly local claimed to possess a BMW he believed to be a 1950s boxer model. We promptly arranged a visit to investigate further. On a chilly winter morning, May 11th, 2024, we journeyed to Carmelo. To our surprise, the motorcycle was not located in the town itself but rather on an old farm near the Narbona Chapel. This raised a fascinating question: What is the connection between Uruguayan farms and classic motorcycles? Uruguay’s Golden Era (1915-1955) During the period from 1915 to 1955, Uruguay experienced its golden era, characterized by significant economic and social progress. Known as the “Switzerland of South America,” Uruguay's prosperity was driven by its agricultural exports, particularly beef and wool. The nation’s affluence during and after the World Wars and the Korean War led to an influx of luxury goods, including high-end motorcycles. Wealthy Uruguayan farmers imported prestigious brands such as BMW, Zundapp, Indian, Harley-Davidson, Norton, Triumph, and others. Our BMW is a prime example of this era's opulence. Hidden away in a small farmhouse on the Narbona area estate for over 35 years, this motorcycle represents a fascinating link to Uruguay’s rich historical tapestry. The motorcycle discovery in such an evocative setting underscores the deep historical connections between vintage motorcycles and the country’s agricultural elite during its peak economic years. The protagonist On the morning of May 11, 2024, we set out for the area around the old Narbona Chapel. We arrived near noon and, without wasting any time, headed to the location where we had been informed the motorcycle was kept. Mr. Boccia's (Son of Original Owner Juan Boccia) greeted us warmly and led us to an old room on the estate where we found the vintage BMW. To our surprise, it was a Boxer model. Mr. Boccia’s son explained that his father had purchased the motorcycle when it was nearly new. However, when his father passed away, the bike developed a problem with the driveshaft. Due to the local mechanics' unfamiliarity with the issue, it was never repaired and was stored in that room for over 35 years. For a moment, we believed the motorcycle might be a post-war BMW R51/3. We made an offer and successfully negotiated the purchase with Mr. Boccia’s son. After loading the bike into our truck, we decided to spend the night in Carmelo. Before doing so, we consulted our BMW Motorräder book by Heinz Härtel, which we had bought at the BMW Museum in Munich. While reviewing the motorcycle’s documentation, we discovered that its engine and chassis numbers were 612007. To our surprise, this identified the bike as a BMW R67/2, with only 4,234 units produced worldwide. The revelation grew even more exciting when we realized that the first R67/2 to leave the Munich factory in 1951 was numbered 612001. This meant our discovery was the sixth R67/2 ever produced out of the limited run of 4,234 units. BMW R67/2 1951 engine (612007) / chassis (612007): The motorcycle’s overall condition was impressive from the outset. The differential had been removed, and, as Mr. Boccia indicated, there was an issue with the driveshaft. Fortunately, the problem turned out to be a worn universal joint, which was easily replaced, and the differential was reinstalled. Both the engine block and chassis bear the number 612007, with the chassis number stamped on the left rear frame. Upon a detailed inspection, we noted a few missing components: the ignition coil was absent, the original headlamp glass was missing, and the gaskets on the carburetors and air filter were in poor condition. We inflated the tires, cleaned the fuel tank, serviced the carburetors, changed the fluids, and filled the tank with fresh gasoline. To our delight, the motorcycle started immediately after being idle for 35 years! Production Model Years 1951 - 1954Frame and Engine Numbers Frame numbers 612001 - 616226 ——— Engine numbers 612001 - 616226 Engine: The engine is running and remains 100% original. The carburetors are the correct matching units for the R67/2, specifically BING models 1/24/25 and 1/24/26, and are in excellent condition. We replaced all the carburetor and air system gaskets, installed the original air filter, and confirmed that the cylinders and cylinder heads are original with the appropriate markings. The electrical system is fully functional, including the magneto, dynamo, and charging system, all of which are original. The missing ignition coil was sourced from Germany and installed according to BMW specifications. The bike starts with a strong spark, and all electrical systems and lights are operating correctly. Transmission: The transmission operates flawlessly, retaining both the hand and foot levers. The differential is fully functional and properly marked. Chassis and Accessories: The chassis is in pristine condition with all the correct markings. It retains the original front and rear suspension, fuel tank, and fenders. The wheels are original BMW with their distinctive spoke pattern. Accessories: The handlebars and handlebar supports are original, as is the VDO speedometer showing 11,681 kilometers. The clutch and brake levers, throttle control, and front fork adjuster are also original. Although the front headlamp was missing its original glass, we obtained and installed it. The rear lamp is original but missing its plastic lens. Missing Parts: The motorcycle is missing the rear fender rack, the rear lamp lens, the seat adjuster, and the fuel tap. Original Documentation: The current documentation for the motorcycle states that it is from the year 1951, with engine number 612007 and chassis number 612007. It also indicates that the previous owner was Mr. Juan Boccia. We can arrange worldwide export of this motorcycle upon request. All necessary documentation is up-to-date and ready for international shipping. DISCLAIMER: This motorcycle is a used unit that has been stationary for over 35 years. As such, it may require maintenance and restoration to attain a museum-quality standard. The motorcycle is being sold in its present condition, functioning as shown in the photos and detailed in this listing. It is important for prospective buyers to understand that this sale is made on an 'as-is' basis, with no warranties or guarantees regarding its condition or suitability for specific purposes. For inquires, pictures and videos please contact us. Displacement594ccCylinders2Bore x Stroke (mm)72 x 73HP @ RPM28 @ 5600Compression Ratio6.5:1ValvesOHV, 2 per cylinderClutchDry, single plate, cable operatedTransmission4 speed, foot shiftedFinal DriveDriveshaftRunning GearFrameTubular steel double cradleFront SuspensionHydraulically damped telescopic forkRear SuspensionPlungerFront Brakes200mm drum, single (1951-1952) or dual (1953-1954) leading shoeRear Brakes200mm drum, single leading shoeElectricalIgnitionMagnetoSpark PlugsBosch W240T1GeneratorNoris 6V/L45/60 6V 45WCapacities & MeasurementsWeight192kgFuel17lWheelbase1400mmTop Speed145kphNumber Produced4234

Price: 13500 USD

Location: Punta del Este

End Time: 2024-11-07T20:31:34.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD