R16 series 3

1932 BMW R16 series 3 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around BMW's allround motorcycle platform, the 1932 BMW R16 series 3 features a 736 cc (44.9 cu in) air-cooled two cylinder boxer, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 33 HP (24.1 kW) at 4,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 3-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 44.8 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 R16 series 3 measures 165 kg (364 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2 HP/kg (5 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 2.75 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 509 km (316 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 120 km/h (75 mph).