BMW extended its range of horizontally opposed twins in the late 1970s with the introduction of the R45.

Looking very much like scaled down versions of BMW's larger models, the R45 featured sharper and modern styling while both weight and overall dimensions were reduced.

The Type 247 Engine was used with smaller pistons, carburetors and a different final drive to assist acceleration.

Tested by Bike magazine in 1979, the R45 recorded a top speed of 95 mph (153 km/h) while returning an overall fuel consumption of 56.2 mpg‑imp (5.03 L/100 km; 46.8 mpg‑US).

Today the R45 is popular with custom bike builders and are being converted into Café Racer or Street scramblers due to their compact dimensions.