1963 BMW R27 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around BMW's allround motorcycle platform, the 1963 BMW R27 pairs a 247 cc (15.1 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 18 HP (13.1 kW) at 7,400 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 72.9 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the R27 measures 162 kg (357 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.11 HP/kg (9 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 965 mm (38 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 3.3 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 455 km (283 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 130 km/h (81 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 1960 to 1966, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
72.9 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.11 HP/kg (9 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~455 km (283 mi)
Engine
Displacement247.0 ccm (15.07 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power18.0 HP (13.1 kW)) @ 7400 RPM
Compression8.2:1
Bore x Stroke68.0 x 68.0 mm (2.7 x 2.7 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Bing
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
IgnitionBattery
LubricationWet sump
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
ClutchSingle plate dry-cable operated
Performance
Top Speed130.0 km/h (80.8 mph)
Fuel Consumption3.30 litres/100 km (30.3 km/l or 71.28 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases76.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.