BMW R 47
The BMW R 47 replaced the R 37 as the sporting 500cc model in 1927. BMW positioned it for a wider customer group than its costly predecessor, while retaining the flat-twin layout. The historical production figure describes this original model, not a modern sporting tribute or a count of motorcycles surviving today.
Model at a glance
| Historical model tally | 1,720 reported for the original model |
|---|---|
| Count basis | Historical model tally; detailed scope is given in Production history. |
| Production period | 1927–1928 |
| Engine / propulsion | BMW 494 cc flat-twin engine petrol engine |
| Classification | Historical low-production model; not an announced numbered edition |
| Origin | Germany |
How does the R 47 relate to the R 37?
BMW introduced the R 47 in 1927 as the sporting successor to the R 37, reaching a wider customer group.
Related motorcycles
- BMW R 57
- BMW R 37
Sources
Why this machine matters
The R 47 provides a useful bridge between the very small R 37 programme and the later R 57. A collection can use the three to discuss changes in access to sporting machinery. Provenance makes that comparison meaningful; a smaller or larger production number cannot answer every question about an individual example.
The story
BMW's catalogue records a 494cc engine and an 18hp factory rating. Those published specifications describe the model; they are not a measurement of the photographed motorcycle. In the selected image, exposed mechanical detail, a separate saddle and a long rear mudguard make the early sporting road-bike layout easy to study. Its later event number does not establish a period competition identity.
Built in limited numbers
BMW’s historical booklet records 1,720 for this original model. The figure is a historical production tally, not an announced numbered allocation or a current survivor count. It has not been independently reconciled chassis by chassis for this profile.
Gallery
Specifications
Factory specifications may vary by model year, market and configuration.
Identity & production
- Official model
- BMW R 47
- Base model
- R 47
- Edition
- R 47
- Worldwide production
- 1,720 reported for the original model
Powertrain & performance
- Engine
- BMW 494 cc flat-twin engine petrol engine
- Powertrain
- Petrol
Motorcycle specifications
- Category
- Road motorcycle
Authenticity & identification
An R 47 evidence file should distinguish genuine model identity from period-style equipment fitted during restoration. Compare engine and chassis records, and retain photographs of the machine before major work. Racing numbers, altered handlebars and exhaust details can be part of a survivor's later life without proving that it was originally delivered as a competition motorcycle.
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