BMW 500 Kompressor & Ernst Henne - test world record attempt 1937 photo 37

Description

A superb and rare photo of the famous supercharged
BMW 500 Kompressor
factory world record breaker of
1937
.
This is a very interesting image as it shows a very rare and special version of the
1937 BMW works world record breaker
being unloaded from the BMW semi truck during a test session in
October 1937
. Unlike the BMW machine that was used by
Ernst
Henne
in the November 1937 world record attempt, the photographed machine featured two side wings at the rear of the aerodynamic shell. Unfortunately this proved to make the machine unstable at speeds over
155 mph
(
250 km/h
)
. Therefore the shell was completely redesigned. This was done by the aerodynamics expert at the
Porsche factory
of
Ferdinand
Porsche
.
And effectively as well, since Henne reached a top speed a month later with the modified machine of no less then
174 mph
(
280 km/h
)
, yet another new world record!
In the 1920s and 1930s
BMW
was very active in world record braking and
Ernst
Henne
was their number one racing ace to do it for them.
Henne
, who began his illustrious BMW racing career in
1926
, would go on to be named the "Fastest Man on Two Wheels," and for good reason. Starting in 1929 he broke the world land-speed record an incredible eight times. Beginning with a swift
134 mph
(
215,65 km/h
)
in 1929 he would increase his speed on a BMW 750cc machine to
159 mph
(
255,89 km/h
)
by 1935. At this time he will had also broken a world land-speed record on a sidecar-equipped 750cc motorcycle clocking in at
118 mph
(
189,90 km/h
)
. In the late 30's, Henne turned to 500cc racers setting records again in 1936 and 1937 at
169 mph
(
271,98 km/h
)
and
173 mph
(
278,42 km/h
)
respectively (see photo!). This final record would hold for fourteen years. He was one of the most talented riders of his era, being a very fast and very precise rider. At the end of the 1920s, Henne developed a passion for off road riding. What followed was an impressive career in that motorcycle sport discipline as well!
This is a very nice and very rare
non period
photo that reflects a wonderful era of BMW ‘s rich motorcycle history in a wonderful way. This is your rare chance to own this photo, therefore it is printed in a nice large format of ca. 8" x 11" (ca. 20 x 28 cm). It makes it perfectly suitable for framing!
Check out our other Ebay auctions or contact us for more BMW and other motorcycle images
and use the shipping discount! You can always contact us for any requests.
Shipping costs will only be $ 7.00 regardless of how many photos you buy.   For 5 or more photos, shipping is free!
(Note: A. Herl, Inc. does not appear on photo, for ebay purposes only)
No copyright expressed or implied. Sold as collectable item only. We are clearing out our archives that we have gathered from various sources.
All items always sent well protected in PVC clear files
and board backed envelopes.
We have photographs that came from professional collections and/or were bought from the original photographer or press studio! They are all of professional and excellent quality.
After many decades of professionally collecting photographs and posters we are clearing out our archives. They make the perfect gift and are perfectly suited for framing. They will look gorgeous unframed and will be a true asset nicely framed with a border. They are a gorgeous and great asset in every home, workshop, workplace, restaurant, bar or club!
First come - first served. And you can always contact us for your requests. Please ask any questions before the auction ends.