BMW R90S
88/100 Overall
83 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R90S vs Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide
BMW R90S scores 88/100 overall against Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide on 77/100. On the road: 83–58. As classics: 93–95. Overall result: BMW R90S.
Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide
77/100 Overall
58 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R90S | Harley-Davidson Super Glide | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 5 | BMW R90S |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 6 | BMW R90S |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 4 | BMW R90S |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 5 | BMW R90S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 7 | BMW R90S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | BMW R90S |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Harley-Davidson Super Glide |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | BMW R90S |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 10 | Harley-Davidson Super Glide |
Choose the BMW R90S if…
you want high-speed touring ability, engineering quality and one of BMW's most significant sporting classics.
Choose the Harley-Davidson Super Glide if…
you want the original factory custom concept, lighter Harley road manners and unmistakable Shovelhead character.
Background
History
BMW R90S
The BMW R90S was produced from 1973–1976 and used a 898cc air-cooled opposed twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
The Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide was produced from 1971–1984 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance and collector appeal. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
BMW R90S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1976.
- The recorded engine description is: 898cc air-cooled opposed twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, reliability.
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
- Its production span in this library runs from 1971 to 1984.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance and collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
BMW R90S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the BMW R90S. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
BMW R90S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary-drive or final-drive condition, charging output, engine mounts and signs of persistent leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the BMW R90S
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson Super Glide
Final result
The verdict
BMW R90S wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R90S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.