BMW Museum auction results

They covered all eras, the oldest being a 1925 R 32. The immaculately presented machines were admired by the large crowd gathered at the BMW Museum and were also of great interest to international online bidders.

The highest price paid at the BMW auction was _84,202 for the ex Georg Auerbacher 1970 500cc Rennsport outfit. This magnificent machine with its racing heritage is a rare example of the BMW racing sidecars that dominated the World Championship between 1954 and 1974.

A beautifully restored 1932 R 16 Series 2 attracted a successful bid of _33,350, a 1936 R 17 sold for _27,025 and a 1939 R 66 with fully documented owner, service and restoration history reaching _18,975.

A unique 1966 R 69 S fitted with American-produced Wixom fairing and panniers sold for _18,400, a price above expectations.

"This was a very good auction, considering the current economic climate. The results clearly show that buyers are willing to purchase motorcycles that have a documented history, are well presented and if not in original condition, not over restored. Unique models like the Wixom R 69 S attract attention and create buyer interest," said Ben Walker, Bonhams motorcycle representative.