BMW R50/5 (1969-73)

The BMW R50/5 was a popular motorcycle model produced by BMW from 1969 to 1973. It was a part of the “Slash-5” series, which improved upon previous BMW models with a new suspension system and other modifications.

The R50/5 had a 500cc, air-cooled, horizontally-opposed twin engine that produced 32 horsepower at 6,500 RPM, and it had an electric starter along with a kick starter.

The bike’s frame was made of a steel tube, and it had telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks.

The R50/5 was known for its comfortable, upright riding position, and it featured a large, round headlight and a distinctive circular instrument cluster. It was available in several colors, including black, red, silver, and white. The bike’s top speed was around 100 miles per hour, and it had a fuel capacity of about 4.5 gallons. The R50/5 was praised for its reliability and durability, and it remains a popular choice among vintage BMW enthusiasts today.

Technical specifications:

Make Model: BMW R 50/5
Year: 1969 – 73
Engine: Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Capacity: 494 cc / 30.1 cu in.
Bore x Stroke: 67 x 70.6
Compression Ratio: 8.6:1
Cooling System: Air cooled
Induction: 2 x Bing carburetors
Ignition: Battery ignition
Starting: Electric & kick
Max Power: 24 kW / 32 hp @ 6400 rpm
Max Torque: 39 Nm / 4.0 kgf-m / 29 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission: 4 Speed
Final Drive: Shaft
Frame: Double loop steel tubular frame
Front Suspension: Telescopic fork with hydraulic shock absorber
Rear Suspension: Long swing arm with suspension units and oil pressure shock absorbers
Front Brakes: 200mm Drum, duplex full hub
Rear Brakes: 200mm Drum, simplex full hub
Front Tyre: 3.25 -S19″
Rear Tyre: 4.00 -S18″
Seat Height: 850 mm / 33.5″
Wet-Weight: 205 kg / 452 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 24 L / 6.3 US gal
Top Speed: 157 km/h / 97 mp