The CJ750 motorcycle is a classic Chinese-made motorcycle that has been around since the 1940s. This historic motorcycle has become an iconic symbol of Chinese culture and heritage. On the other hand, the BMW R71 is a German-made classic motorcycle that has been around since the 1930s. Both the CJ750 and the BMW R71 have stood the test of time as legendary machines, so let’s take a look at how they compare side by side. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between these two classic motorcycles to see which one is the superior ride.
The History of the CJ750
The CJ750 is an iconic motorcycle that has a rich history and is a classic example of Chinese engineering. Originally created by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in 1950, the CJ750 was a copy of the BMW R71, which was a military bike used by the German Wehrmacht during World War II. The CJ750 was designed to be a rugged and reliable machine, perfect for the rough terrain of rural China. It featured a 750cc four-stroke engine, dual-shock suspension, and a 4-speed gearbox.
The original CJ750 was made of steel and had a distinct design that is still recognizable today. Although the PLA never achieved mass production of the CJ750, it was so popular that private companies began producing it after the war. Today, CJ750 motorcycles are still being produced and are popular among collectors and enthusiasts. They can be seen at vintage bike shows and often take pride of place in collections. They have become a symbol of both nostalgia and ruggedness and are a testament to the craftsmanship of Chinese engineering.
The History of the BMW R71
In 1938, the BMW R71 became one of the earliest motorcycles to be mass-produced, after it was developed by BMW in the late 1930s for military use. With a 745 cc side-valve flat twin engine, the R71 had a power output of 20 hp at 4,500 rpm, which enabled it to reach a top speed of 95 km/h. The motorcycle was highly regarded for its sturdiness and dependability and was able to navigate through challenging terrains and harsh conditions. The R71 proved to be a valuable asset in both World War II and civilian use after the war. Additionally, it was the first BMW motorcycle to feature a shaft drive, which replaced the chain drive found on earlier models, including the CJ750 motorcycle, leading to easier maintenance and improved reliability.
Design Differences
When comparing the CJ750 and the BMW R71, there are some notable design differences. The CJ750 was designed to be a more affordable alternative to the BMW R71, which was a more expensive machine. The CJ750 motorcycle had a steel tube frame and a 500 cc side-valve engine, while the BMW R71 featured an aircraft-grade aluminum frame and a 745 cc flat-twin engine.
In terms of design, the CJ750 had an upright seating position, while the BMW R71 had a forward-leaning riding position. The CJ750 was equipped with a three-speed manual transmission, while the BMW R71 featured a four-speed manual transmission. The CJ750 had larger spoked wheels, compared to the BMW R71’s 19-inch cast-alloy wheels. Finally, the CJ750 had simple drum brakes on the front and rear, while the BMW R71 had a more sophisticated braking system with hydraulically operated brakes on both wheels.
Technical Specifications
When comparing the technical specifications of the CJ750 and BMW R71, it is clear that there are some significant differences between the two iconic motorcycles.
The CJ750 motorcycle has a four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 746 cc and power output of 27.5 horsepower at 5200 rpm. It features a single-speed gearbox with chain drive and a dry weight of 254 kg.
The BMW R71 features a two-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled engine with a displacement of 745 cc and power output of 24 horsepower at 4600 rpm. It features a three-speed manual gearbox with shaft drive and a dry weight of 212 kg.
The CJ750 has a maximum speed of 80 km/h and an average fuel consumption of 5 l/100 km, while the BMW R71 has a maximum speed of 90 km/h and an average fuel consumption of 3.7 l/100 km. Both models feature a double-cradle frame and telescopic forks for suspension.
Overall, the CJ750 offers more power and torque than the BMW R71, but the latter is lighter and faster.
Pricing
Regarding pricing, there is a significant contrast between the CJ750 motorcycle and the BMW R71. Depending on its condition and upgrades, the CJ750 can range from $5,000 to $12,000 USD, while the BMW R71 can range from $18,000 to $30,000 USD. The higher cost range of the BMW R71 is mainly due to its rarity and superior craftsmanship. If you are seeking a dependable and renowned motorcycle, the CJ750 is a more cost-effective alternative.
Conclusion
The CJ750 and BMW R71 are two renowned motorcycles that have endured the test of time. Both bikes were intended for practical use, with the CJ750 being the less expensive option. Although the BMW R71 has some design advantages, it is also significantly pricier than the Chinese counterpart. In terms of performance, both bikes offer impressive power and speed. Ultimately, the choice of motorcycle will depend on personal preferences and financial constraints. The CJ750 is a great option for those searching for a dependable yet reasonably priced bike with a classic appearance. On the other hand, the BMW R71 is suitable for those who want a high-end machine that is dependable.