BMW R 24 (1948–1950): A Post-War Motorcycle Legend Revisited

Introduction

The BMW R 24 stands as a symbol of resilience and ingenuity in the aftermath of World War II. Introduced in 1948, this single-cylinder workhorse marked BMW's return to civilian motorcycle production after years of wartime manufacturing. With its rugged simplicity and unmistakable character, the R 24 became a lifeline for riders seeking affordable, reliable transportation in a shattered Europe. Let’s take a journey through time to explore what made this motorcycle—and still makes it—a cherished piece of engineering history.

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Design & Aesthetics

The R 24’s design is a study in post-war pragmatism. Its utilitarian silhouette features a narrow, teardrop-shaped fuel tank painted in sober black or navy blue, complemented by chrome accents on the fenders and exhaust. The 710 mm seat height feels approachable even for shorter riders, though the narrow saddle and minimal padding remind you this is a machine built for purpose, not luxury.

The telescopic front fork (a first for BMW) and rigid rear suspension setup reflect the era’s engineering priorities. While modern riders might find the ride firm, the R 24’s suspension was considered advanced for its time, offering better control over rough roads than competing plunger-frame designs. The shaft final drive (BMW’s signature Kardanantrieb) eliminates chain maintenance hassles and adds to the bike’s clean, industrial aesthetic.

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Engine & Performance

The Heartbeat of Post-War Mobility

At the core of the R 24 lies a 247 cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, producing 12 PS (9 kW) at 5,800 RPM. While these numbers seem modest today, the engine’s torquey nature and agricultural character make it feel larger than its displacement suggests.

Starting Ritual:
- Kickstart the engine, and it rumbles to life with a deep, rhythmic thump-thump-thump that’s more tractor than sportbike.
- The single carburetor requires patience during cold starts—1.5 turns out on the air screw is the sweet spot.
- Once warm, the engine settles into a steady idle, though vibrations through the handlebars and footpegs remind you this is a single-cylinder machine with no pretensions of refinement.

On the Road:
- Acceleration is leisurely—0–60 km/h (0–37 mph) takes about 12 seconds. Top speed hovers around 95 km/h (59 mph), though sustaining that pace feels like asking a marathon runner to sprint indefinitely.
- The 4-speed transmission (non-synchronized) demands mechanical sympathy. Double-clutching becomes second nature, and finding neutral at stops is a skill to master.

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Riding Experience

Riding the R 24 is an exercise in mindfulness. Without modern aids like electric starters or disc brakes, every input requires deliberate action.

Handling:
- The 130 kg (287 lbs) dry weight makes the bike surprisingly nimble at low speeds. Tight turns feel manageable, though the narrow 19-inch tires (1.5 bar front/1.6 bar rear) demand attention on wet surfaces.
- At higher speeds, the rigid rear end transmits every road imperfection to the rider. This isn’t a bike for long highway slogs—it thrives on winding country roads where 60 km/h (37 mph) feels brisk.

Braking:
- Mechanical drum brakes front and rear require significant lever pressure. Plan stops well in advance, especially with period-correct brake pads.

Comfort:
- The upright riding position is comfortable for short commutes, but the thinly padded seat becomes punishing after an hour. Vibrations at sustained RPMs leave hands and feet tingling—a small price for the visceral connection to the machine.

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Competition

The late 1940s motorcycle market was dominated by practical, no-frills machines. Here’s how the R 24 stacked up:

| Model | Engine | Power | Key Differences |
|-------------------|---------------|-------|------------------------------------------|
| BMW R 24 | 247 cc single | 12 PS | Shaft drive, telescopic forks, simplicity|
| Triumph Speed Twin| 500 cc twin | 27 PS | More power, chain drive, higher cost |
| Norton ES2 | 490 cc single | 20 PS | OHV engine, better top speed |
| Zündapp KS 601 | 598 cc twin | 28 PS | Complex opposed-twin, touring focus |

Why the R 24 Stands Out:
While less powerful than British twins, the BMW’s shaft drive and robust construction made it a favorite for riders prioritizing reliability over outright speed. The Triumph and Norton offered more excitement but required frequent chain adjustments and valve checks. The R 24’s simple OHV engine (valve clearances: 0.10–0.15 mm intake, 0.15–0.20 mm exhaust cold) could survive neglect that would cripple its competitors.

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Maintenance

Owning a 70-year-old motorcycle requires dedication, but the R 24’s straightforward mechanics make it a rewarding project. Here’s what owners should prioritize:

Key Maintenance Tasks

1. Valve Adjustments

2. Check every 2,000 km (1,243 miles). Use feeler gauges to maintain 0.10–0.15 mm (0.004–0.006 in) intake and 0.15–0.20 mm (0.006–0.008 in) exhaust clearance.

3. Oil Changes

4. Engine: 1.5 liters of single-grade SAE 30–50 oil (no modern synthetics!).
5. Transmission: 750 ml of gear oil (GL-4 80W-90 recommended).

6. Final Drive: 125 ml of hypoid gear oil.

7. Ignition System

8. NGK B8HS or BR8HIX plugs gapped to 0.6 mm (0.024 in). Points cleaning is a monthly ritual.

9. Tire Pressure

10. 1.5 bar (22 psi) front / 1.6 bar (23 psi) rear for solo riding.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations

• Spark Plugs: Stock up on NGK B8HS—the R 24’s single cylinder is unforgiving of fouled plugs.
• Oil Filters: While the early R 24 lacked a filter, consider adding an inline filter during oil changes.
• Brake Shoes: Upgrade to sintered metal linings for improved stopping power.
• Cables: Keep spare throttle and brake cables under the seat—vintage cables fray without warning.

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Conclusion

The BMW R 24 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a rolling testament to post-war determination. Its uncomplicated design, agricultural charm, and historical significance make it a favorite among vintage enthusiasts. While modern riders might find its performance and comfort lacking, there’s magic in the way its single-cylinder thump connects you to a bygone era of motorcycling.

For owners keeping these classics on the road, MOTOPARTS.store offers the components and expertise to ensure the R 24’s legacy continues. Whether you’re adjusting valves or hunting down rare shaft drive parts, every turn of the wrench is a step toward preserving history.

Ride not just to arrive, but to remember.

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Specifications sheet

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