1961 BMW R60 / Steib Sidecar
Specifications
Description
Few motorcycles embody post-war German engineering quite like the BMW R60, and when paired with the legendary Steib sidecar, they become something truly special.
Introduced in the early 1960s, the 594cc horizontally opposed twin-cylinder R60 was renowned for its smooth power delivery, exceptional reliability, and refined touring ability.
Built during an era when sidecars remained a practical means of transport, the R60 and Steib combination offered stability, comfort, and unmistakable style, quickly earning a reputation as one of the finest touring outfits of its time.
In fact, the BMW R60 and Steib sidecar became one of the world's most respected touring combinations, priced for their balance, reliability, and craftsmanship long before modern touring bikes existed.
ABOUT THIS MOTORBIKE
- Registration: First registered in New Zealand in 1978 - NOTE: Registration lapsed 29 years ago. We can look at getting it re registered in New Zealand, if sold in New Zealand - paperwork available but it is being offered here as is (i.e.: unregistered). Any registration / compliance cost to get it back into the system in New Zealand is not included in asking price.
- This beautifully presented 1961 BMW R60 with its matching Steib sidecar is a wonderful example of that enduring partnership.
- Finished in classic black with elegant hand-painted white pinstriping and complemented by striking red sidecar upholstery, it captures the craftsmanship and character that have made these machines so sought after by collectors.
- Whether admired for its engineering, ridden on leisurely country roads, or displayed as a centrepiece in a collection, this BMW and Steib outfit represents a rare opportunity to own one of motorcycling's most iconic and desirable sidecar combinations.
- Original Certification of Registration available
- Comes with various paperwork, photographic restoration records, and tool kit.
- Desirable matching BMW R60 and genuine Steib sidecar outfit.
- Classic BMW boxer twin with reliable shaft drive.
- Renowned Earles front forks designed specifically for solo and sidecar use.
- Beautifully presented in traditional BMW black with hand-painted white pinstriping.
- Rare New Zealand offering of one of the most sought-after classic sidecar combinations.
- Eligible for many vintage rallies, concours events, and historic motorcycle gatherings.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Year: 1961
- Make: BMW
- Model: R60
- Sidecar: Genuine Steib TR500
- Country of Manufacture: Germany
- Engine: 594cc air-cooled, horizontally opposed (boxer) twin-cylinder
- Valve Gear: Overhead valve (OHV)
- Power: Approximately 30 hp (22 kW) @ 5,800 rpm
- Torque: Approximately 42 Nm (31 lb-ft)
- Carburettors: Twin Bing carburettors
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox
- Final Drive: Shaft drive
- Clutch: Single dry plate
- Frame: Twin-loop tubular steel
- Front Suspension: Earles leading-link forks
- Rear Suspension: Swingarm with twin shock absorbers
- Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear
- Electrical System: 6-volt
- Fuel Tank Capacity: Approximately 17 litres
- Top Speed: Approximately 140 km/h (87 mph)
- Motorcycle Dry Weight: Approximately 195 kg
- Steib Sidecar Weight: Approximately 105 kg
- Steib Gross Weight Rating: 245 kg
- Colour: Black with hand-painted white coachlines
- Seat & Sidecar Trim: Black saddle with red upholstered Steib sidecar interior
- Features: Touring fairing, rear luggage rack, sidecar luggage rack, spare wheel, tonneau cover, hand-painted pinstriping
Finding an authentic BMW R60 paired with a genuine period Steib sidecar is uncommon anywhere in the world; finding one in New Zealand is rarer still.
Most surviving outfits reside in Europe or North America, with very few having made their way to this part of the world. As a result, opportunities to acquire an example of this calibre seldom arise locally. The combination of BMW's renowned engineering and Steib's beautifully crafted coachwork has long been regarded as the benchmark for classic sidecar outfits, making these machines highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
This particular 1961 outfit presents as a beautifully maintained and exceptionally well-finished example. From its deep black paintwork and hand-painted pinstriping to the quality of the brightwork, timber luggage racks, and striking red sidecar interior, every detail reflects the care and investment that has gone into its preservation. It is a machine that is equally at home on display in a discerning collection as it is being enjoyed on the open road, offering an ownership experience that few classic motorcycles can match.
Interest in BMW's /2-era motorcycles and original Steib sidecars has strengthened considerably over the past decade, with complete, high-quality outfits consistently attracting strong international prices at specialist auctions and private sales. Exceptional examples have realised well in excess of US$35,000 to USD40,000, while the very best, highly original or meticulously restored combinations continue to command significant premiums.
For the discerning collector, this is far more than simply a classic motorcycle, it is an increasingly scarce piece of motoring history whose rarity, timeless appeal, and enduring desirability suggest it will continue to be appreciated for generations to come.
Transport / Worldwide Shipping can be organised for Buyer's behalf at Buyer's cost.
Viewing is By Appointment Only!
PLEASE READ: The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Classic Cars as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.
Invest In Your Own Classic Car Fund!
Take Control of your Money Now!CLICK HERE TO READ MORE
DISCLAIMER (PLEASE READ)
NOTIFICATION AS TO NATURE OF GOODS IN TERMS OF THE CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT 1993
Waimak Classic Cars Ltd is a New Zealand registered company and accepts that the vehicle being sold must be of “acceptable quality” in terms of section 7 of the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (the Act) having regard to “the nature of the goods”.
Waimak Classic Cars is not aware of any specific defects with the vehicle, however (a) such a vehicle being a classic vehicle may have mechanical breakdowns, electrical failures at inconvenient times and maintenance costs being part of and parcel of ownership of a classic vehicle; (b) reliability is a combination of the particular nature of the classic vehicle, how it is being driven, how it has been maintained, and to a certain extent luck; (c) because of the age of the vehicle, and its propensity to rust, it is likely that the vehicle would have been fully or partially restored, or at least repainted at some point in its life, maybe even more than once. Waimak Classic Cars does not know, and cannot give advice on how good any restoration work on the vehicle had been.
The Purchaser acknowledges that the vehicle is being sold as a classic car; that in terms of the Act and the nature of the goods, the vehicle is an old car, bike or boat, that may have visual and hidden faults, unlike a new motor vehicle.
The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Classic Cars as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak Classic Cars.
The Purchaser acknowledges that they have read and fully understand this notification and the nature of a car which is many years old.
For more information about this vehicle, please contact us Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm (New Zealand Standard Time) on +64 (0) 3 310-6485. Alternatively, you may email us at [email protected] anytime.
PLEASE NOTE: Waimak Classic Cars is Not a car yard dealer type of operation. As a result, we do not operate through fixed opening hours and viewing is By Appointment Only.
































