AI
Bmw
R 50
Classic · 490 cc
For sale now14 motorcycles
- Engine
- 490 cc
- Power
- 26 hp
- Weight
- 195 kg
- Price range
- €4,900 – €21,990
- Avg. mileage
- 35,302 km
- Common year
- 1962 · 11 motorcycles
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What should you pay for a R 50?
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Based on asking prices, not sale prices. Trim, condition, maintenance and warranty still matter.
Price trend-6%
Based on price data from 6 of the past 12 months.
Used prices are trending down: the typical asking price is €1,005 lower than in May 2026.
Model family
R 50 at a glance
Quick reference values. Model year, generation and trim can differ.
Displacement
490 cc
Power
26 hp · 19 kW
Torque
33 Nm
Category
Classic
Specifications
- Displacement
- 490 cc
- Power
- 26 hp · 19 kW
- Torque
- 33 Nm
- Weight
- 195 kg
- Seat height
- 760 mm
- Top speed
- 140 km/h
- Production
- 1955 – 1969
- Category
- Classic
Comparable models
Also worth considering
Models in the same category and price range to consider alongside the R 50.
Generations and editions
Features and handling differ by generation. Use this overview to find the right version.
2 variants
Years
1960 - 1969
1960–1969 R 50/2
GenerationThe R 50/2 is the developed 500cc boxer from BMW’s second post-war series. It retains the low-stress power delivery and shaft drive, with detail revisions to engine and frame. It is the more natural choice for a period BMW that may have carried a sidecar; check original frame and engine numbers as well as play in the driveline.
494 cc26 hp2 cyl.A2 suitable
Years
1955 - 1960
1955–1960 R 50
GenerationThe original R 50 paired BMW’s post-war 500cc boxer with shaft drive in a calm touring machine. Its Earles front fork and enclosed final drive are useful visual identifiers. It is a motorcycle for classic use and careful ownership; inspect swing-arm bushes, charging system and brakes closely when viewing one.
494 cc26 hp2 cyl.A2 suitable
About this model
About the Bmw R 50
The BMW R50 is a historic boxer motorcycle produced by BMW Motorrad from 1955 to 1969, powered by an air-cooled boxer twin of 490 cc producing 26 hp. The R50 was part of BMW's post-war motorcycle line, which included the /2 series from 1955 and later the /5 generation. Characteristic of BMW tradition are the horizontally opposed cylinders, shaft drive and the unique Earles leading-link front fork system, which ran smooth and stable and was also suited to sidecar combinations. The R50 was in its day regarded as a luxury and reliable German touring motorcycle.
Today the R50 appeals exclusively to classic enthusiasts seeking a well-preserved and original example of BMW's historic post-war model line. It is no longer a daily rider but a first-tier collector's piece. The Earles fork is now unique in the motorcycle world and gives the bike its recognisable timeless silhouette. When buying, the condition of original parts, particularly the Earles fork, carburettor and sidecar attachment points, is the determining factor.
- Category
- Classic
- Production
- 1955 – 1969
- Power
- 26 hp
- Weight
- 195 kg
Before you buy
What to check before buying
- Check the Earles leading-link fork for play in the pivot points: original forks are 70 years old and rebuilding requires specialist classic motorcycle knowledge.
- Inspect the Bing carburettor for correct operation and float needle condition: 65+ year old carbs are prone to corrosion and fuel leaks.
- Check the valve clearances on the boxer cylinders: regular adjustment is essential; neglect leads to permanent valve damage.
- Verify the driveshaft coupling and cardan joint for play: this is the standard maintenance point on all shaft-drive BMWs.
- Watch for originality of the motorcycle: many R50 examples have been modified with more modern parts over the years; original condition is of significant importance to value.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about the Bmw R 50
What does a used Bmw R 50 cost?
A used Bmw R 50 costs €14,990 on average. Most cost €4,900 to €21,990. This is based on 14 motorcycles for sale now.
How many used Bmw R 50 are for sale?
MotorMonitor now compares 14 used Bmw R 50 motorcycles from Dutch sales sites.
What year and mileage does an average used Bmw R 50 have?
The average used Bmw R 50 is from 1962 and has done about 35,302 km.