The first two motorcycles that featured a full-swing chassis were the R 50 and R 69, released by BMW in 1955. In 1956, in the 600cc series, BMW introduced the R 60, a touring motorcycle that rounded the BMW range and replaced the R 67 sidecar model.
Compared to its predecessor, the engine remained with the same characteristics and provided sufficient power and torque to be used in a sidecar combination. The key innovation of the R 60 model was the full-swing chassis, which instead of the plunger telescopic suspension, the model used a long swingarm that guided the wheel on the rear and on the front featured a slidable swingarm.
An important thing that helped BMW survive in the 1950s and 1960s was the popularity of the R 60 used in a sidecar combination by police forces around the world, so selling to the authorities became an important pillar for BMW in the motorcycle business.
The 1956 BMW R 60 model featured a 594cc flat-twin engine that developed a power output of 28 hp with a peak at 5,600 rpm. With a curb weight of 195 kg (430 lbs), the bike reached a top speed of 145 kph (89 mph).
The model came with standard features such as a single seat, a large headlamp, wire-spoked wheels, large fenders, and a dual exhaust system.