BMW R 50/5 (1969-1973) Specs, Performance & Photos

In the mid-1960s, motorcycles were no longer seen as transport vehicles, as much as were considered leisure vehicles. It was a perfect opportunity for BMW, which presented a newly developed model range that included the R 50/5, R 60/5, and R 75/5 and offered numerous innovations.

The R 50/5 model featured a double-loop frame with a bolted rear part, a long-stroke telescopic fork on the front, and a swingarm on the rear. A revolutionary feature offered as optional for the 1969 R 50/5 model was the electric starter and standard on the larger R 60/5 and R 75/5 models.

Apart from the construction principle of an air-cooled two-cylinder boxer unit, the engine was also a new design and had nothing in common with its predecessors.

The flat-twin engine mounted on the R 50/5 with a displacement of 498cc had an output power of 32 hp available at 6,400 rpm. With a curb weight of 205 kg (452 lbs), the bike registered a top speed of 157 kph (96 mph).

For stopping power, the model featured drum braking units with a 200 mm duplex drum unit on the front and a simplex drum unit on the rear.

In all other departments, the 1969 BMW R 50/5 model had the same standard features, such as wire-spoked wheels, an analog instrument cluster, full fenders, a dual exhaust system, a round headlamp, a small taillight, and a center stand.