1959 BMW R60 590cc and Steib S500 Sidecar

A classic and highly regarded post-war German motorcycle combination, one of BMW’s most sidecar-friendly models, featuring Earles-type leading-link forks and low-compression engine tuning. Nicely presented throughout but will require recommissioning prior to further use.

ESTIMATE: £6,000 - £9,000

+ buyer's premium of 15% plus VAT (18% incl VAT)

You can choose to bid in the room, by phone, online or via commission.

LIVE AUCTION: This lot will be auctioned on Sunday 22nd February, 2026 at 11.00am local time at Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh Rd, Coventry, CV8 2LG

REG NUMBER
428 UXP

SUMMARY

DESCRIPTION

At the end of 1954, BMW undertook a major overhaul of its horizontally opposed twin-cylinder range, replacing the R51/3, R67/2, and R68 with the new R60 and R69 models. While the engines remained broadly similar, the most significant advances were found in the chassis, which now featured the innovative Earles-type leading-link front fork and a swinging-arm rear suspension — a layout particularly well suited to sidecar use.
The sidecar-friendly R67/2, long favoured for its lower compression and tractable nature, was not directly replaced until the introduction of the R60 in 1956. The R60 employed a detuned version of the R69 engine, offering durability and torque rather than outright performance — characteristics ideally matched to hauling a sidecar. BMW’s commitment to the sidecar market was evident in the Earles fork design, whose lower link incorporated alternative mounting points to maintain correct trail when a sidecar was fitted.
This 1959 example predates the later “/2” revisions introduced in 1960, which brought internal engine upgrades and a modest power increase. Nevertheless, the R60 was already firmly established as one of the finest sidecar motorcycles of its era, combining mechanical robustness with long-distance comfort and exemplary handling.
The motorcycle is paired with a Steib S500 sidecar, widely regarded as the benchmark in period sidecar design. The BMW/Steib combination is considered one of the most harmonious and desirable classic outfits, both visually and dynamically.
Originally registered as 54 WMT, now registered 428 UXP, this outfit has had six previous owners and was acquired by Robin Haigh in July 2016. It is nicely presented throughout and forms part of a well-curated private collection. Having seen little recent use, it will require recommissioning before returning to the road.
A superb opportunity to acquire a quintessential BMW sidecar outfit, combining elegant engineering, proven usability, and enduring appeal among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

SPECIFICATION

Lot Number: 847
Make: BMW
Model: R60
Registration Number: 428 UXP
Frame Number: 619783
MOT Expiry: Exempt
Engine Number: 2

GALLERY

SPECIALIST

Rob Hubbard
Managing Director & Principal Auctioneer
07775 511825
rob@iconicauctioneers.com

For further information regarding this lot please contact Rob.

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Please note all motorcycles must be out of the venue by 2pm on Monday 23 February due to venue restrictions. We will contact buyers after the sale to arrange either collection or transport with Moving Motorcycles.

Uplift by our motorcycle transport partners, Moving Motorcycles back to their storage facility in Northampton. £125 plus VAT. Storage will then be charged at £10 plus VAT per day.

You can obtain a quote online (see link below) or contact them on +44 (0) 1933 448555 for onward transport to you.

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1959 BMW R60 590cc and Steib S500 Sidecar

1959 BMW R60 590cc and Steib S500 Sidecar