Highlights

A stylish and highly usable classic motorbike, and an excellent base for a more comprehensive refurbishment
Powered by a 250cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine, delivering around 15bhp to the rear wheel through a four-speed transmission and shaft-drive
Recently serviced and fitted with several replacement components like a new 6V battery as well as a battery cut-off switch

The Appeal

While British manufacturers like Triumph and BSA may have led the way post-war in terms of outright performance, BMW’s two-wheeled offerings were renowned for their reliability and refinement, pioneering the use of shaft drive and developing their own robust engines. The R26 is regarded as one of the most usable classic bikes of its era.

Here we have a very original and smart R26, manufactured in 1958. A thorough service and mechanical overhaul in February 2024 has made it a supremely rideable example and the vendor comments that it has been fabulous to ride, with smooth power delivery and impressive levels of comfort. Complete with fresh tyres and new high-quality ‘Bumm’ wing mirrors, it’s ready to be enjoyed.

History and Paperwork

The bike was last serviced in February 2024 at an indicated 19,285 kilometres
Prior to this, a service was carried out in October 2022 and July 2022 at an indicated 19,201 and 19,049 kilometres respectively
The odometer currently displays 19,297 kilometres
Manufactured in 1958
MOT valid until January 2025
The vendor informs us that the registration shown is not included in the sale

The Condition

This R26 is finished in black, punctuated by a handful of chrome-finished components.
The wheels are shod with recently fitted Dunlop K82 tyres
Features include a centre stand and a rear luggage rack
The vendor states that the motorcycle will be delivered with a new set of quality stainless-steel ‘Bumm’ mirrors (as featured in the photographs)
The paintwork looks in very good overall condition with some age-commensurate patina
Various minor chips, scuffs, scratches and blisters are evident around the frame, tank and mudguards
Some light marks to some areas of the chrome
Marks and light scuffs to be found on the wheels, but nothing excessive
No known mechanical or electrical faults

The Mechanics

250cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine
Four-speed transmission delivering around 15bhp to the rear wheel via a driveshaft
Reportedly running and riding very well with no apparent faults
The vendor states that it is very smooth to ride, with ample power for use in modern traffic

The aforementioned February 2024 service is said to have included:

All clutch components have just been replaced
Including new pressure plate, clutch spring, thrust rod, clutch friction disc, flywheel, thrust ring clutch and seals, rings and bearings
The carburettor has been cleaned and adjusted with new original components fitted
The engine's compression has been checked and verified to be in a very healthy state
The bike now starts easily, shifts gears seamlessly and revs freely

The aforementioned October 2022 service is said to have included:

Overhauling the carburettor and clutch
repairing the speedometer and ignition switch
adjusting the steering system
Replacing the spark plug, rear and front foot pegs, oils and fluids,
Installation of a new numberplate frame, front light reflector, front light chrome ring and seal
Several new seals and nuts were installed along with the safety pins in the clutch, flywheel and prop shaft
A new storage compartment lid seal was also installed, as well as a battery cut-off switch

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email [email protected]. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.