BMW R75
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This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. Please improve this article by introducing more precise citations. (February 2009) |
- For the 1970s 750 cc motorcycle see BMW R75/5
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| Manufacturer | BMW |
|---|---|
| Production | 1941–1946 |
| Class | Motorcycle/sidecar combination |
| Engine | 745 cc flat-twin (OHV)[1] |
| Bore / Stroke | 78 × 78 mm (3.1 × 3.1 in)[1] |
| Power | 26 hp (19 kW)[1] |
| Weight | 420 kg (930 lb) (dry) |
The BMW R75 is a World War II-era motorcycle and sidecar combination produced by the German company BMW.
In the 1930s BMW were producing a number of popular and highly effective motorcycles. In 1938 development of the R75 started in response to a request from the German Army.
Preproduction models of the R75 were powered by a 750 cc side valve engine, which was based on the proven R12 engine. However it was quickly found necessary to design an all new OHV 750 cc engine for the R75 unit. This OHV engine later proved to be the basis for subsequent post-war twin BMW engines like the R51/3, R67 and R68.
The third side-car wheel was driven with an axle connected to the rear wheel of the motorcycle, effectively making it a three-wheeled vehicle. These were fitted with a locking differential and selectable road and off-road gear ratios through which all four and reverse gears worked. This made the R75 highly manoeuvrable and capable of negotiating most surfaces. A few other motorcycle manufactures, like FN and Norton, provided an optional drive to sidecars but with very limited success.
The BMW and its rival Zündapp were both widely used by the Wehrmacht in the Eastern Front and North African Campaign.
Zündapp and BMW, on the urging of the Army, agreed upon standardisation of parts for both machines. The standardisation programme meant that machines that were produced by BMW and Zündapp used almost 70% of the same components. This simplifies the supply of spare parts for these vehicles, many of which are still in the hands of historic motorcycle enthusiasts. These vehicles are desirable as collector's items because of their complex and durable technology. A well-restored R75 can be still used for everyday purposes, on or off-road without problems.
In 1954 a small number of modified R75 models were produced at Eisenach (then in Soviet-controlled East Germany) for testing under the designation AWO 700, but were not put into full production.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ a b c "BMW R75 sidecar unit specifications". Phil Hawksley's BM Bikes. http://www.bmbikes.co.uk/specpages/R75_sidecar_unit.htm. Retrieved 6 December 2009.
- Piekalkiewicz, Janusz (1991). BMW Motorcycles in World War II: R12/R75. Schiffer Military History. ISBN 978-0-887-40306-4.
[edit] External links
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Wikimedia Commons has media related to: BMW R75 |
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