1933 BMW R11

1933 BMW R11 Series 4: A Pressed-Steel Icon from the Golden Age of Pre-War BMWs

Few machines embody the engineering leap of the late 1920s and early 1930s quite like the BMW R11. Introduced in 1929 as BMW Motorrad's first production model to feature a revolutionary pressed-steel duplex frame, the R11 marked a pivotal shift from fragile tubular designs to a robust, torsion-resistant chassis capable of handling the demands of solo riding, sidecar hauling, and even early military service.

The R11's double-cradle pressed-steel frame was a landmark: lighter, stronger, and cheaper to produce than brazed tubes. Paired with BMW's signature transversely mounted flat-twin, it created a platform that felt decades ahead of rivals.

Heart of the Machine: The Indestructible 745cc Boxer

- Engine - 745cc (78mm × 78mm) air-cooled sidevalve flat-twin, delivering a reliable 18 hp 

- Transmission - 3-speed hand-shift with shaft drive—no chains to stretch or snap on long hauls.

- Performance - Top speed ~100 km/h (62 mph), with effortless low-rev torque that made it a favorite for police, postal services, and touring families.

- Brakes - 200mm front drum (expanded by heel pedal) and a unique contracting band on the driveshaft for the rear—simple, effective, and field-serviceable.

- Suspension - Curved leaf-spring girder fork upfront, rigid rear

Series 4 upgrades included a stronger driveshaft housing, improved Bosch magneto, and optional Amal carburetor for crisper throttle response. Finished in BMW's iconic black with hand-painted white pinstripes, the polished aluminum tank badges and fishtail exhausts screamed understated Bavarian elegance.

Provenance: From an Epic Pre-War BMW Collection

This R11 isn't just any survivor—it's a blue-chip artifact from one of the world's most comprehensive pre-war BMW collections. Spanning the marque's formative 1923–1939 era, the collection curated dozens of pressed-steel pioneers: early R32s, R47 racers, ohv R16 sports bikes, and military-spec R12s.  This R11 has been on display for the past 3 decades.

We are happy to have this available state-side.  Touch base with questions and available for viewing at our New Hampshire location