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1980BMW R 45

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The 1980 BMW R 45 is a lightweight touring motorcycle powered by an air-cooled 473cc boxer twin, delivering 35 horsepower. Well-suited for practical riders seeking reliable, economical long-distance travel, it's characterized by its shaft-drive efficiency and manageable weight. Known for BMW's legendary dependability and smooth ride quality, the R 45 remains a favorite among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.

Capacity
473.0 ccm
Engine
Boxer
Gearbox
5-speed
Wet weight
206.0 kg
Seat height
Not on record
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Power
35.0 HP (25.7 kW) @ 7250 RPM
Other years 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 26Agility 51Comfort 55Off-road 15Touring 50Road manners 55
Off-road & trail15%
Cornering45%
City riding55%
Daily riding55%
Touring50%
Two-up45%
Track15%
Best for
A classic entry-level boxer twin meant for relaxed commuting, learning, and light weekend rides rather than outright performance.
Built for
An honest, mechanically simple air-cooled boxer with charming shaft-drive smoothness and old-school BMW build quality.
Not ideal for
Not for riders seeking strong acceleration, high top speed, or any serious off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
473.0 ccm
Power
35.0 HP (25.7 kW) @ 7250 RPM
Engine type
Boxer
Power/weight ratio
0.1699 HP/kg
Bore x stroke
70.0 x 61.5 mm
Compression
9.2:1
Cooling system
Air
Valves per cylinder
2
Torque
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Shaft
Performance
Top speed
160.0 km/h (99.4 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Wet weight
206.0 kg
Fuel capacity
22.00 litres
Seat height
Not on record - add it
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Single disc
Rear brakes
Expanding brake
Front tyre
3.25-18
Rear tyre
4.00-18

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 19801981198219831984
Capacity 473 cc 473 cc 473 cc 473 cc 473 cc
Fuel capacity 22 L 22 L 22 L 22 L 22 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the BMW R 45?

The 1980 BMW R 45 has a Capacity of 473.0 ccm (28.86 cubic inches).

What engine power does the BMW R 45 have?

The 1980 BMW R 45 has a Power of 35.0 HP (25.7 kW) @ 7250 RPM.

How many gears does the BMW R 45 have?

The 1980 BMW R 45 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the BMW R 45 weigh?

The 1980 BMW R 45 has a Wet weight of 206.0 kg (454.2 pounds).

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