EMW Motorcycles: The East German Continuation of BMW’s Legacy
After World War II, the BMW factory in Eisenach found itself in the Soviet-occupied zone of Germany. Despite the devastation, production of the pre-war BMW R35 motorcycle resumed, initially still under the BMW name. However, in 1952, following legal action from West German BMW, the brand was renamed Eisenacher Motorenwerk (EMW), adopting a red and white emblem in place of BMW’s iconic blue and white logo.
Development and Production
EMW continued the R35 production, implementing key modifications such as a hydraulically damped telescopic fork and foot-shifted transmission. Between 1945 and 1955, over 83,000 units of the R35 and its variants were produced before motorcycle manufacturing at Eisenach came to an end.
Technical Specifications
- Engine: 340cc single-cylinder, four-stroke
- Power Output: 14 hp
- Features: Hydraulically damped telescopic fork, foot-shifted transmission
Historical Significance
The EMW R35 symbolizes the post-war industrial recovery of East Germany, showcasing how existing technologies were adapted and further developed in a changing political and economic landscape. Though short-lived, EMW motorcycles remain a fascinating part of motorcycle history, representing an era of engineering resilience and innovation.
