In September 1969, production of the new /5 series began in Berlin (instead of Munich, as before) with the BMW R 60/5. This model represented a completely new design for the boxer engine: a lightweight double-loop tubular frame with a swingarm rear suspension was complemented by telescopic forks at the front. Plain bearing crankshaft and connecting rods became standard, as did a three-phase generator, battery ignition, and a convenient electric starter, which was also standard equipment.
The R 75/5 in October and the R 50/5 in November 1969 completed the /5 family. Demand for the larger R 60/5 and R 75/5 models quickly exceeded all expectations. The modern design of the /5 series, reflected in unanimously positive reviews and test reports from the international trade press, further boosted demand for the new BMW. The attractive entry-level price convinced buyers, and the color selection was another plus. For the first time in BMW motorcycle history, in addition to the obligatory black and white, silver, blue, and red were also offered.
The BMW R 60/5 is more than just a means of transportation; it's a motorcycle with soul and character. Its combination of classic design, technical sophistication, and riding comfort makes it a true classic.
Technical data for the BMW R 60/5
| | Engine displacement: 599 cc Cylinders: 2 HP/kW: 40/29 Vehicle weight (kg): 210 Seat height (mm): 810 Valve clearance (intake): cold 0.15 mm Valve clearance (exhaust): cold 0.20 mm Idle speed: 700 ± 100 rpm Tire pressure (front): 1.9 (2.2) BAR Tire pressure (rear): 1.8 (2.3) BAR Spark plug 1: NGK BP7ES Spark plug 2: NGK BPR7EIX Electrode gap: 0.6 mm Fork tube diameter: 36 mm telescopic fork Chain/Final drive: Cardan Fork oil per leg: 250 ml SAE 5W/10W Engine oil without filter: 2.0 L SAE 20W-50 Engine oil with filter: 2.25 liters Transmission oil: 800 ml SAE 90 GL-5 Brake fluid: Mechanical drum brake Final drive oil: 250 ml SAE 90 GL-5 Fuel tank capacity: 24.0 L/17.5 L (from 1971) Coolant: Air-cooled |
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The "R" in BMW motorcycles historically stands for motorcycles with the typical boxer engine. The R series represents the classic segment of BMW motorcycles and includes popular models such as adventure touring bikes (e.g., R 100 GS), cruisers (R 75/5), and sport tourers (R 100 RT). The "R" denotes the use of a two-cylinder boxer engine, known for its smooth running, characteristic sound, and unparalleled riding experience.Today, the "R" indicates the engine type of BMW motorcycle. "K," for example, stands for the inline engine, and "R" for the boxer engine. Furthermore, the "R" is a synonym for classic and versatile, or in other words: "The combination of traditional boxer technology with modern technology and absolute reliability."
In BMW's early days, the "R" served to differentiate the motorcycle engines from the aircraft engines produced at the same time. Even after World War II, the "R" continued to be used for boxer motorcycles.
The 60/5 in Police Service
The R 60/5 was a well-balanced middle between the "small" R 50/5 and the "large" R 75/5, offering a particularly attractive ratio of performance to price. This robust and reliable machine also won over demanding law enforcement clients, who gradually replaced the old full-swingarm models in their motorcycle squadrons with the modern R 60/5. Finished entirely in white, with its full fairing also painted white and manufactured by Gläser, the new police BMW quickly earned the nickname "White Mouse." The R 60/5 entered service in 1969 and was used by German and international police forces, equipped with their respective special accessories. The motorcycle was especially popular with the French Gendarmerie.
A tribute to the /5
With the air-cooled R nineT /5 from 2019, the Bavarian manufacturer commemorates the 50th anniversary of the legendary /5 series, which marked the beginning of motorcycle production at the BMW plant in Berlin-Spandau.
The R nineT /5 is a rolling homage to that glorious era and revives the series that once laid the foundation for the brand's success in a contemporary form. True to the tradition of the classic /5, the special edition features knee pads, an elaborate paint finish, and the typical double pinstriping on the tank and fender. The chromed rearview mirrors and exhaust headers are modeled on the historical original, as is the dual seat with grab straps and the obligatory white piping. The fork gaiters lend the successor just as much of a touch of nostalgia as the classic spoked wheels. The coating of the engine, gearbox, fork tubes, wheel hubs and wheel spokes in aluminium silver, as well as the frame and the housing of the driveshaft in black, are also based on the legendary /5 models.
