To support the German war effort in World War 2 (1939-1945), the military sought out all viable motorcycle types for military service. The BMW R61 model was one example of a civilian market form being adopted for direct military service in the dispatch role. The R61 saw only limited production - procurement ran from 1938 to 1941 - as they proved quite expensive to manufacture. They were also deemed quite large for agile work. Fewer than 4,000 were built in all.
Power stemmed from a 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, 597cc 18 horsepower engine installed under the 14-liter fuel tank. This provided for roads speeds nearing 115 kmh. The R61 was the first BMW motorcycle to introduce rear suspension for a more comfortable ride.
(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
6.9 ft 2.1 m
Width
3.3 ft 1 m
Height
3.1 ft 0.95 m
Weight
408 lb 185 kg
(Showcased structural values pertain to the base BMW R61 production variant. Length typically includes main gun in forward position if applicable to the design)
Powerplant:
1 x 2-cylinder, 4-stroke 597cc engine developing 18 horsepower at 4,800rpm.
Speed
71.5 mph (115.0 kph)
Range
158.4 mi (255.0 km)
(Showcased performance specifications pertain to the base BMW R61 production variant. Compare this entry against any other in our database)
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R61 - Base Series Designation
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Nazi Germany
