BMW Motorcycles R26 1955-1960
The single-cylinder R26 was introduced in 1955 and shared the same chassis developments of Earles front forks and swinging arm rear suspension that made the R50 and R69 twins introduced in the same year such a success.
The suspension movement was sensational compared to previous technology and the level of ride comfort afforded was a revelation to riders. The performance of the 250cc engine was improved compared to that of the R25 with a further increase in compression ratio and a larger carburettor diameter so that peak output was 15hp and top speed was outstanding for the period at 128kph (80mph).
More than 30,000 examples of the R26 were sold during the five years it featured in the BMW catalogue until the R27 superseded it in 1960. This example was imported in 1995 from Portugal to the UK where it was first registered in 1997. A second UK owner acquired it in 2005 through BMW specialist, Mike Coombes. It was acquired for the NZ Classic Motorcycles collection at auction in Staffordshire in April, 2009.
The R26 came with an enclosed drive shaft, rear swingarm, and front Earles forks. A new headlight nacelle came with a sliding black plastic over the ignition key, and the “bell-bottom” front fender was dropped along with the mechanics' hand shifter. The engine of the R26 was bolted directly to the frame, and produced 15 hp (11 kW).