The picture above shows the late US version, to detect at the telescopic fork front and the red colour. In Germany, the motorcycle was initially available except in black only in ivory. Model years after 1962 can be seen on the bulge in the engine block up front that conceals a vibration damper on the crankshaft. Without this, there had been increased damages to the engine in the first series. The change-over of the crankshaft to plain bearings made possible significantly higher displacements and performances on later models.

The R 69 S was the flagship from BMW and almost as expensive as a VW Beetle. The will ultimately win as competitor, because the buyers wanted a more comfortable mode of transportation. Although the R 69 S recommended itself as a something more fuel-efficient and significantly faster alternative. This was not only due to its slightly more powerful engine, but mainly the much-praised full-swing arm chassis and secure frame. On longer distances, it beats even some stronger motorcycles English or American origin.

In this case, the restoration of the engine is really only something for professionals. In addition to the almost standard changeover to unleaded petrol are to consider some subtleties not only at the cylinder heads, but also in the area of the crankshaft, despite the actually rather proven engine construction. The R 69 S was classified a bit as a Diva in this area, particularly the years of construction before 1962. In contrast, transmission and shaft drive were rather unproblematic.

In order to characterize the difficult times for BMW end of the sixties, we content ourselves with mentioning the legendary Honda 750, which appeared 1968. Meanwhile, the performance of the R 69 S has been provided easily from a Honda 450. Nevertheless, BMW not decides for a radical solution.It remains with the two-cylinder boxer with central camshaft. However, many details were modified and the production moved into a new plant in Berlin. After all, BMW has remained true to the motorcycle manufacturing despite difficult conditions at that time. 10/15