R 16 series 1

1929 BMW R 16 series 1 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by BMW for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 1929 BMW R 16 series 1 utilizes a 736 cc (44.9 cu in) twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 25 HP (18.2 kW) at 4,000 rpm. With a specific output of 34 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.

On the scales, the R 16 series 1 measures 165 kg (364 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.15 HP/kg (6.6 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,380 mm (54.3 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 280 km (174 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 120 km/h (75 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 1929 to 1930, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.