From 1954 to 1974, BMW was the dominant force in the German national and Grand Prix world sidecar championships. In 1960, both titles were won by BMWmounted privateer Helmut Fath, whose R 69-based “Kneeler” revolutionized sidecar racing with an ultra-low riding position made possible by relocating the fuel tank to the passenger platform. “This bike wasn’t put together by the factory, but by a real genius with a competitive spirit,” says owner Michael Nelson, who bought the Kneeler from Fath’s family.

For more pictures and information on this or any other vehicle in the Motorcycles exhibit, check out the exhibition book in our store!