The BMW R4 series was provided to the rebuilding Nazi German Army of World War 2 (1939-1945) as early as 1932. The motorcycles used in the war mainly fulfilled the dispatch role and various accessories could be added to further increase the tactical value of such machines. Many Wehrmacht solders trained on R4 models prior to the war and the type became an instant classic. Based on the original civilian market design, the R4 differed in incorporating a skid plate and different brackets for its saddlebags. The skid pans protected the small engine.
In practice, as well liked as the series was, it suffered from being underpowered but were nonetheless considered reliable machines - retaining nearly all qualities of their civilian counterparts.
The R4 series was succeeded by the BMW R12 of 1935 which was offered with sidecar and produced in large quantities with a more powerful engine.
(OPERATORS list includes past, present, and future operators when applicable)
✓Reconaissance
Can conduct reconnaissance / scout missions to assess threat levels, enemy strength, et al - typically through lightweight design.
✓Utility
General utility-minded design to accomplish a variety of battlefield tasks, typically in a non-direct-combat fashion.
Length
6.6 ft 2 m
Width
3.0 ft 0.9 m
Height
3.1 ft 0.95 m
Weight
309 lb 140 kg
(Showcased structural values pertain to the base BMW R4 production variant. Length typically includes main gun in forward position if applicable to the design)
Powerplant:
1 x 1-cylinder, 4-stroke 398cc engine developing 12 horsepower at 3,500rpm.
Speed
68.4 mph (110.0 kph)
Range
155.3 mi (250.0 km)
(Showcased performance specifications pertain to the base BMW R4 production variant. Compare this entry against any other in our database)
None.
Not Applicable.
R4 - Base Series Designation
Ribbon graphics not necessarily indicative of actual historical campaign ribbons. Ribbons are clickable to their respective campaigns / operations.
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Nazi Germany
