MotoLibrary MotoLibrary
← BMW
Naked bike · 1925

R32

User Rating: /5 · No user ratings yet ✓ Your rating was saved
MotoLibrary Score
38 /100 Commuter
Power
9 HP
Top Speed
95 km/h
Engine
494 ccm

1925 BMW R32 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 1925 BMW R32 naked motorcycle, BMW relies on a 494 cc (30.1 cu in) air-cooled two cylinder boxer, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 8.6 HP (6.3 kW) at 3,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 3-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 17.4 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 R32 measures 122 kg (269 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.07 HP/kg (14.19 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 3 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 467 km (290 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 95 km/h (59 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 1923 to 1926, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
17.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.07 HP/kg (14.19 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~467 km (290 mi)
Engine
Displacement 494.0 ccm (30.14 cubic inches)
Engine Type Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Engine Details Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power 8.6 HP (6.3 kW)) @ 3200 RPM
Compression 5.1:1
Bore x Stroke 68.0 x 68.0 mm (2.7 x 2.7 inches)
Fuel System Carburettor. 22 BMW Spezial
Fuel Control Overhead Valves (OHV)
Ignition Magneto
Lubrication Wet sump
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 3-speed
Final Drive Shaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Clutch Single plate dry-cable operated
Performance
Top Speed 95.0 km/h (59.0 mph)
Fuel Consumption 3.00 litres/100 km (33.3 km/l or 78.41 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases 69.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame Type Steel doble cradle
Front Suspension Leading link
Wheelbase 1380 mm (54.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 2.99-26
Rear Tyre 2.99-26
Front Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Front Brake Ø 150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brake Ø 150 mm (5.9 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl. 122.0 kg (269.0 pounds)
Overall Height 950 mm (37.4 inches)
Overall Length 2100 mm (82.7 inches)
Overall Width 800 mm (31.5 inches)
Fuel Capacity 14.00 litres (3.70 US gallons)
Other
Starter Kick
Carrying Capacity 184kg
More from BMW
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

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.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏍️
Best For
City & Weekend Rides
Estimate

Ownership Cost Calculator

⛽ Fuel
per year
🔧 Maintenance
per year
🛡️ Insurance
per year
TOTAL

* Estimates only. Actual costs vary by country, riding habits, insurance provider and maintenance schedule.

MotoLibrary
🏠 Home 🔍 All Bikes 📂 Categories ⚖️ Compare 🎛️ Advanced Filter 🎯 Bike Finder 🎬 Videos 📰 Blog 📖 Glossary ℹ️ About

🍪 We use cookies for analytics & ads. Cookie Policy