BMW R 5 Homage: Bike with historical model
80 years ago, BMW presented the BMW R 5, a new development that was to have a lasting influence on motorcycle construction until the 1950s. Based on the 500 cc factory racing machine of 1935, it was one of the pioneering sports motorcycles of the late 1930s with its newly designed, lightweight frame. On the occasion of its 80th birthday, BMW Motorrad is paying tribute to this icon on [...]
To mark its 80th birthday, BMW Motorrad is honoring this icon at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este with a special model: the BMW R 5 Homage. The BMW R 5 Hommage transfers the essence of motorcycling into the present day and combines the world of historic motorcycle construction with the modern custom world. In the best custom manner, the bike was hand-built from scratch. The two-cylinder boxer of the R 5 was a new design at the time and produced 24 hp. Thanks to the frame made of electrically welded oval tubes, the lightweight R 5 reached a top speed of 135 km/h and was thus almost as fast as the 33 hp 750 R 17 - not least the reason why it was often and gladly used for racing. The result is convincing: the proportions convey the timeless beauty of consistent reduction to the essentials and transfer it to the present day. The frame and tank quote the elegant teardrop shape of the prototype, but show it in a more modern interpretation.
Compressor, tailpipe system and suspension in perfection
Within the minimalist proportions rests the heart of the BMW R 5 Hommage - the revised original engine. The technical highlight of the engine is the specially developed supercharger, which helps the 500 cc original unit with originally 26 hp now to significantly more power. A completely new stainless steel exhaust system makes the increased power heard. Further accents are set by the new rear suspension, the modern piston brake system and the elaborately designed front and rear wheel hubs.
A classic BMW and yet a real custom bike
In terms of color, the BMW R 5 Homage is classic. The basic theme is BMW-typical black with white, hand-drawn lines. The engine block and transmission made of glass-bead blasted aluminum provide an excellent stage for the polished aluminum parts such as the newly milled breast plate or the valve covers with crease. Above all, the soft sheen of the polished aluminum is reminiscent of the originals of the BMW R 5 era. An embroidered individual leather seat with high-quality embossing blends perfectly into the overall picture.
www.bmw-motorrad.ch
Photo: Factory
