1940 BMW R 61 Specifications

Name: 1940 BMW R 61
Brand: BMW

All-Round • Specs last verified 31 October 2026

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1940 BMW R 61 Overview

The 1940 BMW R 61 is an all-round motorcycle built around 600 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder engine, a compression ratio of 5.7:1. 1940 BMW R 61 delivers 13.4 kW @ 4800 rpm of peak power. From a practical standpoint, the 1940 R 61 tips the scales at 184 kg and carries a 14-litre fuel tank. That's roughly 5 kg lighter than the average all-round motorcycle in our database. Scroll down for the complete 1940 BMW R 61 spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

1940 BMW R 61 compared with other bikes in the All-Round category

Here is how the 1940 BMW R 61 stacks up against other bikes in the All-Round category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 146 models.

Power-to-weight ratio of 73 W/kg is lower than that of 117 of the other 135 bikes in the All-Round category.
Only 33 of the other 145 bikes in the All-Round category have a lower power output than the 13.4 kW of the R 61.
Narrowing the field to the 14 models within five model years of it, the power-to-weight ratio of 73 W/kg is lower than that of 8 of the other 13.

1940 R 61 - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Capable power output: At 13.4 kW @ 4800 rpm, the R 61 holds its own against class rivals.

Considerations

Carburetor fuelling: Carbureted engines need occasional jetting attention and can be reluctant in cold weather or at altitude compared to modern fuel-injected alternatives.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Heat management in traffic

R 61's air-cooled design means engine-bay temperatures build up more in stop-start traffic than on a liquid-cooled equivalent - a function of the cooling method itself, not a defect. Mesh riding gear and avoiding prolonged idling help in hot climates.

Carburetor maintenance

The R 61 uses carburetion rather than fuel injection, which means jetting is altitude- and temperature-sensitive and benefits from a clean-and-rejet after extended storage or an exhaust change.

Suspension condition on used examples

Up front, the R 61 runs Telescopic fork and Telescopic suspension at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.

Frame & chassis check

The frame is Twin loop steel tubular frame - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.

R 61 - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 1940 BMW R 61 with its 600 cc all-round, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. Now 86 years old, this all-round is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R 61 should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the R 61's 600 cc four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. The sump holds 2 l, so budget for that volume of quality motorcycle-specific engine oil. With a 5.7:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

Carburetor upkeep

Keep the carburetors clean and free of deposits. If the R 61 has been stored, strip and clean the carb float bowls before attempting to start it. Pilot jets are the first to block and the last to be checked - always include them in any carb rebuild.

1940 BMW R 61 - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 1940 BMW R 61 have?

The 1940 BMW R 61 uses a Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder. engine with 600 cc of displacement. It is air cooled.

How much does the 1940 BMW R 61 weigh?

The 1940 BMW R 61 weighs 184 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

How much power does the 1940 BMW R 61 make?

The 1940 BMW R 61 produces 13.4 kW @ 4800 rpm of power.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 1940 BMW R 61?

The 1940 BMW R 61 has a 14-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 233-280 km between stops.

What brakes does the 1940 BMW R 61 have?

The 1940 BMW R 61 uses Ø200mm Drum at the front and external shoe brake at the gearing on Cardan shaft at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 1940 BMW R 61 use?

The 1940 BMW R 61 runs 3 -19" front and 3.50 -19" rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

What gearbox does the 1940 BMW R 61 have?

The 1940 BMW R 61 is fitted with a 4 Speed transmission.

How much oil does the 1940 BMW R 61 take?

The 1940 BMW R 61 takes 2 l of engine oil at a full oil and filter change. Always verify against the dipstick or sight glass after filling.

Key Specifications

Engine

Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.

Power

13.4 kW / 18 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque

Not recorded

Top Speed

Not recorded

Weight

184 kg / 405 lbs

Fuel Capacity

14 liters / 3.6 US gal

Full 1940 BMW R 61 Specifications

Year 1938 - 41

Make BMW

Model R 61

Make Model BMW R 61

Oil Capacity (l) 2.0 l

Oil Capacity (Quarts) 2.1 Quarts

Fuel Capacity 14 liters / 3.6 US gal

Wet Weight 184 kg / 405 lbs

Max Power 13.4 kW / 18 hp @ 4800 rpm

Stroke 78.0 mm

Displacement 600 cc / 36.6 cu in.

Engine Detail Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.

Bore x Stroke 70 x 78 mm

Compression Ratio 5.7:1

Cooling System Air cooled

Fuel Induction 1x Amal M75/426 S carburetor

Ignition Battery ignition

Starter Kick

Chain Size Shaft

Clutch Single plate, dry

Gear Ratios 1st 3.6 / 2nd 2.28 / 3rd 1. 7 / 4th 1.3:1

Transmission / Drive 4 Speed

Frame Type Twin loop steel tubular frame

Suspension - Front Telescopic fork

Suspension - Rear Telescopic suspension

Tachometer None

Brakes - Front Ø200mm Drum

Brakes - Front ∅200mm Drum

Brakes - Rear External shoe brake at the gearing on Cardan shaft

Tyres - Front 3.00 -19"

Tyres - Rear 3.50 -19"

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis. Spot an error? Let us know.

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