In 1955, BMW released the first models with a full-swing chassis that replaced the old plunger suspension. The BMW R 50 and R69 featured a rear wheel mounted in a long swingarm with the cardan shaft encapsulated in the right-hand swingarm and a shifted swingarm on the front.
The chassis provided great stability in all driving situations, either solo or trailed operations. The R69 model, considered a sports model, was also popular with police forces which helped BMW survive in the 1950s and 1960s.
The R69 model retained the engine from its predecessor almost unchanged and provided enough power for sporty drivers to enjoy. Like its predecessor, the 1955 BMW R69 broke the 100-mile limit with a top speed of over 160 kph.
In the power department, the 594cc flat-twin engine had a power output of 35 hp with a peak at 6,800 rpm and pushed the bike to a top speed of 165 kph (102 mph).
A 200 mm duplex full hub drum unit on the front and a 200 mm simplex full hub drum unit on the rear were there to ensure the stopping power needed.
Standard features that came with the bike such as wire-spoked wheels, a dual exhaust system with pea-shooter mufflers, a dual seat, a small tail-light, a round headlight, a center stand, a black-finished steel frame, and full fenders, tipped the scale at 202 kg (445 lbs) and with the sidecar attached at 320 kg (705 lbs).