BMW R90S
88/100 Overall
83 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R90S vs Honda CB350 K
BMW R90S scores 88/100 overall against Honda CB350 K on 75/100. On the road: 83–72. As classics: 93–78. Overall result: BMW R90S.
Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Honda CB350 K
75/100 Overall
72 On the road78 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R90S | Honda CB350 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 6 | BMW R90S |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 5 | BMW R90S |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 6 | BMW R90S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 7 | BMW R90S |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 8 | Level |
Choose the BMW R90S if…
you want high-speed touring ability, engineering quality and one of BMW's most significant sporting classics.
Choose the Honda CB350 if…
you want a lively, approachable classic Honda twin with good parts support and genuine 1970s 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.
Honda CB350
The Honda CB350 K was produced from 1968–1973 and used a 325cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
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.
Honda CB350
- Its production span in this library runs from 1968 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 325cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, styling.
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.
Honda CB350
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB350 K. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. 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.
Honda CB350
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil 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 Honda CB350
Final result
The verdict
BMW R90S wins the direct on-the-road comparison. BMW R90S wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R90S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.