Bmw R 90 S
The Bmw R 90 S has a top speed of 200 km/h, produces 67 hp and weighs 215 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.5/10.
The BMW R 90 S was introduced in 1973 as BMW's flagship superbike, designed by Hans Muth with a distinctive smoked fairing and twin-disc front brakes that were revolutionary for the era. It was the fastest production motorcycle of its time upon release, winning the inaugural AMA Superbike Championship in 1976 ridden by Reg Pridmore. The R 90 S is widely regarded as the bike that established BMW's sporting credentials and is considered one of the most iconic motorcycles of the 1970s.
67 hp
Power
74 Nm
Torque
215 kg
Weight
200 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Strong Collector Value
The R 90 S was the world's fastest production motorcycle when launched in 1973, and its status as BMW's first superbike makes it highly sought after by collectors. Well-preserved examples regularly fetch $15,000–$30,000+ at auction.
Watch the Airhead Electrics
The aging electrical system, particularly the Bosch components and wiring harness, is prone to gremlins on bikes that haven't been properly maintained. Always verify the charging system and inspect for amateur rewiring before buying.
Iconic Dual-Disc Brakes
The R 90 S was among the first production motorcycles to feature dual front disc brakes, a groundbreaking feature for its era. However, the original Ate calipers can seize after decades of use, so a brake service is essential on any purchase.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original production run; 898cc boxer twin, dual front discs, distinctive smoked fairing, 67hp output.
"The bike that proved BMW could build a sportster."
Nothing before 1973 wearing a BMW badge prepared you for the R 90 S — that smoked fairing wasn't cosmetic vanity, it genuinely worked, cutting wind fatigue on long autobahn stints in a way rivals couldn't match. The 898cc boxer pulls with real authority from 3,500 rpm upward, and once you're in the 5,000–7,000 rpm sweet spot it feels genuinely urgent, though 'urgent' by 1970s standards means you're leaning forward grinning rather than white-knuckling. The dual front discs were revolutionary for their era and still inspire confidence — rear drum included — but the real shock for anyone expecting a touring plodder is how well this thing steers: neutral, communicative, never nervous on a fast sweeper. Weak points are honest ones: the seat hardens considerably after two hours, oil temperature climbs stubbornly in summer city traffic, and the cam followers will remind you service intervals aren't suggestions.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"Buy the best example available — compromises here cost dearly."
$18,000-$35,000 usedThe R 90 S is genuinely one of motorcycling's landmark machines — BMW's first superbike, the fastest production motorcycle of 1973, and still devastatingly handsome fifty years on. That smoked fairing and those twin Bing carbs are iconic for good reason. But buy one romantically and you'll suffer for it. These airheads demand regular valve checks every 6,000 miles, the carbs need synchronising obsessively, and finding a clean unmolested example gets harder every year as values climb. Mechanically they're surprisingly robust if maintained properly. The 898cc boxer twin pushes around 67hp — laughable now, but the torque delivery is smooth and satisfying in a way modern bikes rarely match. Shaft drive means no chain faff, which is a genuine daily pleasure. Budget serious money for a proper pre-purchase inspection from someone who knows airheads specifically. Prices have gone properly silly. You're paying museum piece money now, so only buy the best example you can find. Avoid anything with botched electrics, replaced frame sections, or carbs that have been tampered with by someone who watched a YouTube video.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Bmw R 90 S — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALRough idle, poor throttle response, fuel smell
Clunking on acceleration, check lube history
Oil residue around cylinder head covers
Check all fairing mounts and panel condition
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Tough, simple engine but needs disciplined maintenance
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Bmw R 90 S
Honda Cb750 Four
Kawasaki Z1 900
Suzuki Gt 750
Honda Cbx 550
Yamaha Xs650
Compare Bmw R 90 S Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Bmw R 90 S vs Honda Cb750 Four
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 90 S vs Kawasaki Z1 900
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw R 90 S vs Suzuki Gt 750
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Bmw R 90 S vs Honda Cbx 550
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Bmw R 90 S vs Yamaha Xs650
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Bmw R 90 S? +
Airhead carb diaphragms cracked or leaking: Rough idle, poor throttle response, fuel smell (moderate) | Spline wear on rear drive shaft: Clunking on acceleration, check lube history (serious) | Rocker cover gaskets leaking oil: Oil residue around cylinder head covers (minor)
Is the Bmw R 90 S a good motorcycle? +
Buy the best example available — compromises here cost dearly. Rating: 8.5/10. Best for: Experienced riders wanting classic investment with usability. Avoid if: You want cheap, low-maintenance weekend transport.
What is the horsepower of the Bmw R 90 S? +
The Bmw R 90 S produces 67 hp @ 7,000 rpm, with 74 Nm @ 5,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 200 km/h.
Is the Bmw R 90 S good for beginners? +
Not really — the Bmw R 90 S is better for experienced riders. Experienced riders wanting classic investment with usability Avoid if: You want cheap, low-maintenance weekend transport
Is the Bmw R 90 S reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Bmw R 90 S, notably: Spline wear on rear drive shaft (Clunking on acceleration, check lube history). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Bmw R 90 S good for daily use? +
Experienced riders wanting classic investment with usability Fuel: 5.5 L/100km (approx. 18 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Bmw R 90 S? +
The Bmw R 90 S reaches a top speed of 200 km/h, producing 67 hp at 215 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Bmw R 90 S? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Bmw R 90 S, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/bmw/r-90-s/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
