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New for 1953, the BMW R25/3 differed from other BMW motorcycles in that power came from a vertically oriented single cylinder 250-cc engine, BMW's first 'thumper' since 1938. Directed at the entry-level motorcyclist, the R25/3 was simple and light but still featured BMW's high quality aluminum castings, shaft driven rear wheel, industry-leading drum brakes and reputation for extreme reliability. So durable was the R25/3 that nearly half of all units produced were used by European police, postal and Red Cross workers. By 1960, the R series had evolved into the R27 with 18hp, a 4-speed transmission and 81 mph top speed and remained in production through 1966. This 1962 R27 has never been restored and is in highly original condition with most of its factory-applied paint still shining and all mechanical systems in great working order. The front fender still wears the tag of the Franz Zellbeck dealership in Berghausen, Germany, where it was sold new. The as-new fender-mounted Denfeld buddy seat is ready for passengers.